Name: Delicious Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (240g) sourdough discard (unfed, cold from fridge is fine); 1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour (plus up to ½ cup extra, as needed); 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 6 tbsp (85g) cold unsalted butter, cubed; ⅓ cup (80ml) milk (plus more if needed); 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar (or more, to taste); 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 2 tbsp (28g) softened unsalted butter; ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar; 1 tbsp milk; ½ tsp vanilla extract

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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the sweetness of cinnamon rolls. These rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for brunch or a cozy dessert, they showcase the beauty of using sourdough discard, transforming it into something truly scrumptious. Let’s dive into this easy sourdough cinnamon roll recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

These sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are not just quick to make; they are also a fantastic way to reduce waste in your kitchen. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

Ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
Use up leftover sourdough, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
The dough is soft and fluffy, with a delightful cinnamon swirl.
Customizable with your favorite fillings or toppings.
Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast treat.
Easy to make, even for beginners—no yeast needed!

This recipe is a fantastic introduction to sourdough discard sweet rolls and showcases how versatile sourdough can be in baking.

Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Gather these items:

1 cup (240g) sourdough discard (unfed, cold from fridge is fine)
1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour (plus up to ½ cup extra, as needed)
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
6 tbsp (85g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
⅓ cup (80ml) milk (plus more if needed)
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar (or more, to taste)
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp (28g) softened unsalted butter
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1½ cups flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the sourdough discard, milk, and vanilla until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed to make the dough workable.
Step 2: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently knead 3–4 times—just enough to bring it together without overworking.
Step 3: Roll the dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Slice into 8 even rolls.
Step 4: If dough is still sticky, place the sliced rolls on a baking tray and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes for easier handling.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place rolls in a parchment-lined 9-inch round pan or on a small baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown and fully baked in the center. Some ovens may require up to 25 minutes.
Step 6: While rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls right out of the oven.
Step 7: Enjoy immediately while warm, soft, and gooey!

Pro Tips for the Best Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Keep these in mind:

Use cold butter for a flaky texture in the dough.
Don’t over-knead the dough; it should be soft and slightly sticky.
Allow the rolls to cool slightly before adding icing for a smoother drizzle.
For an extra kick, add nuts or raisins to the filling.
Experiment with different spices; nutmeg works beautifully with cinnamon.

Best Ways to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a lovely breakfast treat.
Top with extra frosting or cream cheese icing for a rich experience.

How to Store and Reheat Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

To store, place the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their original softness and gooeyness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

What’s the secret to perfect Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

The secret lies in the dough; ensuring it’s slightly sticky but not too wet will give you that perfect fluffy texture. Using unfed sourdough discard also enhances the flavor, making these cinnamon rolls with sourdough discard extra special.

Can I make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready, bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

Common mistakes include over-kneading the dough or not allowing it to rest. Always keep an eye on the dough’s texture, and if it feels too dry, add a bit more milk until it’s just right. These tips will help you create perfect cinnamon rolls using sourdough starter leftovers every time.

Variations of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

Here are a few creative twists you can experiment with:

Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor.
Add chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent treat.
Incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Make a savory version by using herbs and cheese instead of cinnamon and sugar.

These variations will keep your baking exciting and allow you to tailor the rolls to your taste!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, or try making Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread for a delightful bread experience. If you’re interested in more dessert options, our Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake is a must-try!