Description
Soft, fluffy sourdough discard cinnamon rolls with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and creamy frosting. A delicious way to use up leftover sourdough starter!
Ingredients
Scale
Dough:
- 1/2 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, flour, and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Stir until dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Step 4: Roll and Fill the Dough
- Roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread cinnamon-sugar filling evenly.
- Roll tightly from the long side into a log.
- Cut into 12 even rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Second Rise
- Cover rolls with a towel and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 6: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla; mix until combined.
- Add milk as needed to reach spreadable consistency.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
- Spread frosting over warm rolls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling.
- Raisin or Cranberry Twist: Add dried fruit for extra flavor.
- Maple Glaze: Replace cream cheese frosting with a maple glaze.
- Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside the rolls.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- rise time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cook Time: 22–25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sourdough discard, cinnamon rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls, sourdough baking, breakfast pastry