Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite with these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls! In just 30 minutes, you can indulge in the warm, buttery layers of these cinnamon rolls that are made extra special by incorporating sourdough discard into the recipe. The magic lies in the ingenious use of biscuit-making techniques that result in flaky, tender rolls with a subtle tangy flavor that sets them apart from the rest.

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen without the usual long proofing time. These quick and easy cinnamon rolls are a game-changer, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The folding method creates buttery layers akin to a croissant, while the cream cheese frosting adds a smooth and decadent finish. Whether for a busy morning or a leisurely weekend brunch, these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Discover the joy of baking up these delectable treats that are not only a time-saver but also a flavor-packed delight. With simple ingredients and clever techniques, you can enjoy the satisfaction of creating perfect cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time. Let these rolls be your go-to recipe for a quick, yet indulgent breakfast or anytime treat that will have your family and friends coming back for more.

Quick Benefits

  • Transforms sourdough discard into magical, tangy cinnamon rolls
  • Creates tender, flaky layers in just 30 minutes
  • Perfectly sized rolls that are not overwhelmingly large
  • Uses common pantry ingredients for quick and easy baking

Why You’ll Love This Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Recipe

  • Transforms sourdough discard into something magical
  • Creates tender, flaky layers without traditional yeast rising
  • Takes just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Makes perfectly sized rolls that aren’t overwhelmingly large
  • Uses ingredients you likely already have on hand
  • Sourdough Discard: Adds tang and complexity without needing to be active
  • Cold Butter: Must be very cold for flaky layers
  • Fresh Baking Powder: Critical for proper rise
  • All-Purpose Flour: Creates the perfect tender texture
  • Ground Cinnamon: Use fresh, high-quality cinnamon for best flavor
  • Cold ingredients are crucial for flaky texture
  • Don’t overwork the dough or rolls will be tough
  • Cut rolls with sharp knife or dental floss
  • Let pan heat in oven if using cast iron
  • Prepare rolls the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, let them come to room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.
  • Use a bench scraper for easier handling
  • Mark cutting lines before slicing rolls
  • Rotate pan halfway through baking
  • Don’t overbake – pull them when just golden
  • The aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls is unbeatable, and this quick sourdough discard version brings that joy within easy reach.
  • After experimenting with various ways to use my sourdough discard, I discovered this game-changing recipe that delivers tender, buttery rolls in just 30 minutes – perfect for those morning cravings when you can’t wait hours for traditional rolls to rise.
  • The first time I made these for my family, they couldn’t believe they were ‘quick’ cinnamon rolls – the texture and flavor rival traditional versions that take hours to make.
  • My biggest breakthrough came when I started grating frozen butter instead of cutting it in – it creates the most incredible layers with minimal handling.
  • The key to flaky layers is keeping everything cold until the moment it hits the hot oven. I even chill my flour mixture and bowl beforehand.
  • These quick sourdough cinnamon rolls have revolutionized my weekend baking routine. They’re perfect for those mornings when you want something special but don’t want to wait hours. The tangy notes from the sourdough discard add complexity that makes people think you spent hours in the kitchen. Remember, the key to success is keeping everything cold and working quickly – your reward will be perfectly tender, flaky rolls that no one will believe took just 30 minutes to make.

Ingredients for Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Dough

  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 cup butter, cubed or grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup sourdough starter (active or discard)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

Pro Tips for Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To achieve the flakiest layers, ensure your butter is very cold and grate it using a box grater instead of cutting it in. This technique minimizes handling and creates buttery, tender layers similar to a croissant.

Pro Tip 2: For the best results, chill your flour mixture and bowl before starting the recipe to keep all the ingredients cold until they hit the hot oven. This step is crucial in achieving the perfect balance of flakiness and tenderness in your quick sourdough discard cinnamon rolls.

Pro Tip 3: Prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate them tightly covered, and bake them fresh in the morning. This make-ahead option allows the flavors to develop and makes them perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches, giving you a delicious treat without the long wait.

How to Make Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat oven to 425°F and place cast iron skillet in oven to preheat if using.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix in butter until crumbly. Stir in sourdough starter, egg, and milk to form a shaggy dough. Transfer to a floured surface and fold until dough forms, with visible butter chunks.

Step 3: Step 03

Roll out the dough into a 6×9 inch rectangle, then fold it into thirds. Roll it out again into an 18×12 inch rectangle.

Step 4: Step 04

Combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Evenly spread over dough. Roll tightly from the long edge. Cut into 12 one-inch pieces.

Step 5: Step 05

Grease a 9×13 pan or preheated skillet and place rolls in it. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.

Step 6: Step 06

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar and whisk for 2 minutes. Stir in vanilla and milk, whisk for an additional 2 minutes. Pour over hot rolls right away.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked and enjoyed these Easy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, storing any leftovers properly will help maintain their freshness and flavor. To store the finished rolls, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place the cinnamon rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Stored this way, the cinnamon rolls can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you plan to enjoy them beyond that time, it is best to refrigerate them to prolong their shelf life. When refrigerating, ensure the rolls are well wrapped to prevent them from drying out, and they can be kept for up to a week.

If you want to make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time, they can be prepared the night before baking. After assembling the rolls, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning, allow the rolls to come to room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake them as directed in the recipe. This make-ahead method not only saves time but also allows you to enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls with minimal effort. Whether storing leftovers or planning ahead, following these storage tips will help you savor the deliciousness of these sourdough discard cinnamon rolls for longer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have sourdough discard on hand, you can use active sourdough starter as a substitute. Simply use the same amount of active starter in place of the discard. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly, but it will still provide that tangy note characteristic of sourdough.

For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil. Make sure the butter substitute is solid when cold to achieve the desired flaky layers. Additionally, you can use a non-dairy milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk instead of regular milk in the dough and frosting to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions. This swap will still result in delicious cinnamon rolls with a creamy frosting, just with a dairy-free twist.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try serving these Easy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls in a mini cast-iron skillet for a rustic and charming presentation. The individual skillets not only add a touch of novelty to the serving, but they also help retain the heat, keeping the rolls warm for longer and enhancing the overall dining experience. Drizzle the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls and watch as it melts and oozes into all the nooks and crannies, creating a decadent finish that will surely impress your guests.

Another fun way to serve these quick sourdough cinnamon rolls is by turning them into a delightful dessert parfait. Simply dice the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces and layer them in a glass with alternating spoonfuls of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Top it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a visually stunning and indulgent treat that combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the creamy richness of a parfait. This creative twist is perfect for serving at gatherings or dinner parties, offering a unique and elegant way to enjoy these delicious treats.

FAQs for Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Can I use sourdough discard that has been in the refrigerator for a few days?

Yes, you can use sourdough discard that has been in the refrigerator for a few days. The discard adds a subtle tangy flavor to the cinnamon rolls, and using it even after a few days in the fridge will still yield delicious results.

Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it. Let it come to room temperature before frosting the cinnamon rolls.

How do I prevent the cinnamon rolls from becoming tough?

To prevent the cinnamon rolls from becoming tough, avoid overworking the dough. Handle the dough gently and mix until just combined. Overworking the dough can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tough rolls.

Can I freeze the unbaked cinnamon rolls for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cinnamon rolls for later use. After assembling the rolls, wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to bake, allow the rolls to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a true game-changer in the world of quick and delicious breakfast treats. With their flaky layers, subtle tangy flavor from the sourdough discard, and comforting cinnamon aroma, they are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. The best part? They can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches.

So, don’t hesitate to try out this recipe and enjoy the process of transforming your sourdough discard into something truly magical. With a few simple steps and handy tips, you’ll be rewarded with heavenly cinnamon rolls that will delight your family and guests. Embrace the joy of baking and savor every bite of these delectable Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls – a delightful treat that’s quick, easy, and utterly irresistible.

Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

“Transform your sourdough discard into magical, flaky Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls in just 30 minutes – a quick, tangy twist on a classic breakfast treat!”
Prep Time15 Minutes
Cook Time15 Minutes
Total Time30 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelIntermediate
Servings12 Servings (12 rolls)

Ingredients

Dough

  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 cup butter, cubed or grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup sourdough starter (active or discard)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

Instructions

  1. Step 01: Preheat oven to 425°F and place cast iron skillet in oven to preheat if using.
  2. Step 02: Combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix in butter until crumbly. Stir in sourdough starter, egg, and milk to form a shaggy dough. Transfer to a floured surface and fold until dough forms, with visible butter chunks.
  3. Step 03: Roll out the dough into a 6×9 inch rectangle, then fold it into thirds. Roll it out again into an 18×12 inch rectangle.
  4. Step 04: Combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Evenly spread over dough. Roll tightly from the long edge. Cut into 12 one-inch pieces.
  5. Step 05: Grease a 9×13 pan or preheated skillet and place rolls in it. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
  6. Step 06: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar and whisk for 2 minutes. Stir in vanilla and milk, whisk for an additional 2 minutes. Pour over hot rolls right away.