Tasty Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

A Delicious Way to Use Your Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a delightful way to use up leftover sourdough starter while creating soft, fluffy, and flavorful pastries. The discard adds a slight tang that complements the rich, buttery cinnamon-sugar filling. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent treat with coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Great Use for Sourdough Discard – No waste! Turn your leftover starter into something delicious.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture – The sourdough discard enhances the dough’s structure and adds a subtle tang.
• Rich Cinnamon-Sugar Filling – A classic, gooey, and buttery filling makes every bite irresistible.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare the dough the night before for fresh rolls in the morning.
• Versatile and Customizable – Add nuts, raisins, or different glazes to switch things up.

Ingredients

Dough:

• ½ cup sourdough discard (unfed)
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 ½ tablespoons cinnamon

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, and salt.
2. Add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.

Step 4: Roll and Fill the Dough

1. Roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
2. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough.
3. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
4. Cut into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until combined.
3. Add milk as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations and Customizations

• Nutty Addition – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling.
• Raisin or Cranberry Twist – Add dried fruit to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for extra flavor.
• Maple Glaze – Substitute the cream cheese frosting with a simple maple glaze using powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup.
• Chocolate Lovers – Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside for a sweet surprise.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Bake Time: 22–25 minutes
• Total Time: About 2.5–3 hours

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.
• Reheating: Microwave for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cinnamon rolls overnight?

Yes! After shaping the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

What if I don’t have sourdough discard?

You can substitute it with ¼ cup additional flour and ¼ cup additional milk.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, substitute with the same amount of instant yeast and skip the activation step.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives, and make a dairy-free glaze instead of cream cheese frosting.

Why are my rolls dense?

If your rolls turned out dense, the dough may have needed more kneading, or the yeast wasn’t properly activated.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it will make the rolls denser. Consider using a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

How can I get the best rise?

Make sure your yeast is fresh, and allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment.

Can I use a bread machine for the dough?

Yes, add the wet ingredients first, followed by dry ingredients, and let the machine knead the dough.

What’s the best way to slice the rolls cleanly?

Use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife to avoid squishing the dough.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use two baking dishes.

Conclusion

These sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a fantastic way to use up your leftover starter while creating a soft, flavorful treat. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, their deliciously gooey texture and tangy-sweet flavor make them irresistible. Try customizing them with your favorite mix-ins and frostings for a personal touch!

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