Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls: A Simple Recipe for Sweet Mornings


Waking up to Warm, Freshly Baked Cinnamon Rolls 🍂

Waking up to warm, freshly baked cinnamon rolls is an amazing experience, especially when they are made from anyone’s sourdough discard! Velvety, gooey, and oh so cinnamon-y, you’re going to love these chewy melt-in-your-mouth rolls of warm pleasure. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these rolls make a great treat for your loved ones! And the best part? You’re using that discard of sourdough that you would otherwise trash, making them both delicious and waste-free! 🌱

Why Sourdough Discard? 💚

Sourdough discard gives a slight tang to balance the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar filling. Plus, it’s a great way to use your discard rather than throw it away. Your mornings just got a whole lot more sustainable! 💚


Let’s Dive into the Recipe! 🎉

  • Sourdough discard (unfed) – 1/2 cup
  • Milk (warm) – 1/2 cup
  • Unsalted butter (melted) – 1/4 cup
  • Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup
  • Large egg – 1
  • All-purpose flour – 2 1/2 cups
  • Instant yeast – 2 tsp
  • Salt – 1/2 tsp
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp

Instructions 📋

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Mix the warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and sourdough discard in a large bowl. Whisk in the egg and vanilla. Then add the flour, yeast, and salt. Stir until a dough forms, adding flour as needed. Knead for 5-7 minutes, then let it rise until doubled in size (about 1–1.5 hours).

Step 2: Make the Filling

Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. After the dough rises, roll it into a rectangle (12×18″). Spread with softened butter and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

Roll the dough tightly from the long side, pinch the edges, and cut into 9–12 pieces. Place in a greased dish and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden. While baking, make the frosting by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes, then spread the frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy your gooey, sweet cinnamon rolls! 😋


Nutritional Benefits 🌿

BenefitPer Serving (1 Roll)
Calories290-320 kcal
Carbohydrates40-45 g
Protein5-6 g
Fat12-15 g
Sugar15-18 g

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Rolls 💖

  • Super Soft & Fluffy: The sourdough discard gives the rolls an amazing soft and fluffy texture.
  • Sweet, Tangy Flavor: The sourdough discard provides a slight tang that perfectly offsets the sweet cinnamon sugar filling.
  • No Waste: You’re making use of your sourdough discard, making these cinnamon rolls environmentally friendly.
  • Easy to Follow: This recipe is straightforward, perfect for sourdough experts or beginners.
  • Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for an extra touch!
  • Great for Any Occasion: Whether for a cozy Sunday morning or an elegant brunch, these rolls are a winner.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls 🍪

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, eggs, and sourdough discard are at room temperature for the best texture.
  • Don’t Overbake: Watch the rolls closely and take them out when golden to avoid dryness.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before, let them rise in the fridge, and bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions 🤔

Can I freeze sourdough cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. If frozen before baking, thaw them and allow them to rise before baking. If frozen after baking, simply reheat and enjoy!

What if I don’t have sourdough discard?

No problem! You can replace the sourdough discard with an equal amount of flour and milk. The rolls will still be delicious, though they may lack the slight tang of sourdough.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter to make a plant-based version.


Final Thoughts 🌟

Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a delightful breakfast option—slightly sweet, pleasantly tangy, and irresistibly gooey. They’re perfect for brunch with family or to treat yourself with a delicious start to your day. Plus, reducing food waste while making these rolls is a win-win! 💛

Give this recipe a try, and let us know how your cinnamon rolls turned out! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your creations. 🧡 #SourdoughCinnamonRolls #WasteNotBakeMore

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