Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Sourdough Discard ((fed or unfed, room temperature)); 1/4 cup Milk ((room temperature)); 1 Large Egg ((room temperature)); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Salt; 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter ((melted and slightly cooled)); 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (plus more for dusting); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast ((or 1 teaspoon instant yeast)); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter ((softened)); 3/4 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar; 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon; 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2-4 tablespoons Milk; 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

BY :

Liana

Posted On :

September 9, 2025

DESSERT

Transform your sourdough discard into something truly magical with these irresistible Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls! This recipe isn’t just a delicious way to use up leftover starter; it’s a delightful baking experience that yields incredibly soft, flavorful, and aromatic cinnamon rolls. Forget about wasting your precious sourdough discard – let’s turn it into a breakfast or brunch masterpiece that will impress even the most discerning cinnamon roll enthusiast. The rich tang of the sourdough complements the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar filling perfectly, creating a complex flavor profile that you won’t find in ordinary cinnamon rolls. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, elevated to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a delicious treat; they are a testament to resourceful baking and delicious flavor. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

Zero Waste Baking: This recipe cleverly utilizes sourdough discard, preventing food waste and maximizing the potential of your starter. It’s a sustainable and environmentally conscious way to enjoy delicious baked goods.
Unique Flavor Profile: The tangy sourdough starter adds a surprising depth and complexity to the classic cinnamon roll flavor, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The subtle sourness beautifully balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and cinnamon.
Incredibly Soft and Fluffy Texture: The sourdough contributes to a remarkably soft and airy texture, unlike any other cinnamon roll you’ve tasted. The rolls are light, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Easy to Follow Instructions: Even if you’re a beginner baker, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. The detailed steps and helpful tips ensure success every time.
Customizable Recipe: Feel free to experiment with different glazes, fillings, and even add nuts or dried fruits to the dough for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless!
Perfect for Sharing: These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for sharing with friends and family. They make a wonderful addition to any brunch, breakfast, or potluck gathering. It’s a surefire way to impress your loved ones and show off your baking skills.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making this a convenient recipe for busy schedules. Simply allow extra time for rising.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Beyond the deliciousness, there are many reasons why you should add this recipe to your baking repertoire:

Reduce Food Waste: Sourdough discard is a common byproduct of maintaining a sourdough starter. This recipe provides a practical and delicious way to utilize it, reducing food waste and saving you money.
Improve Your Baking Skills: Making these cinnamon rolls will enhance your baking skills. You’ll learn more about working with sourdough, shaping dough, and achieving the perfect rise. It’s a great opportunity for skill development.
Impress Your Friends and Family: These exceptional cinnamon rolls will undoubtedly impress your loved ones. The unique flavor and texture will make them stand out from store-bought versions.
Enjoy a Homemade Treat: Nothing beats the taste and satisfaction of making something delicious from scratch. These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful baking experience with rewarding results.
Perfect for Gift-Giving: Bake a batch of these amazing rolls and share them with your neighbors, friends, or family. It’s a thoughtful and delicious gift that’s sure to be appreciated.
Experiment with Flavors: This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Try different spices, fillings, and glazes to create your own signature Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls. Explore more recipe ideas on our website!
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Indulge in a warm, gooey, and perfectly spiced cinnamon roll without the guilt of wasting food. It’s the perfect guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Gather your ingredients and tools before you start baking. This will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls:

For the Dough:

1 cup (240g) sourdough discard (fed or unfed, at room temperature) – Essential for that unique tangy flavor.
1/4 cup (60ml) milk (any kind, room temperature) – Provides moisture and helps with the dough’s texture.
1 large egg, room temperature – Adds richness and binds the ingredients together.
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and controls yeast activity.
4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – Adds richness and flavor.
4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting – The structure of the dough. Consider using bread flour for a chewier roll.
2 teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 teaspoon instant yeast) – The leavening agent, crucial for the rise.

For the Filling:

1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened – Creates a rich and flavorful filling.
3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the filling.
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – The classic cinnamon roll spice!

For the Glaze:

1 cup (120g) powdered sugar – Creates a sweet and delicate glaze.
2-4 tablespoons milk (any kind) – Adjusts the glaze consistency.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze.

Necessary Utensils:

Large mixing bowls (at least two)
Stand mixer with a dough hook (or a wooden spoon for hand mixing)
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
Plastic wrap
Rolling pin
9×13 inch baking pan
Whisk
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional, but recommended)
Kitchen thermometer (for activating yeast)

Detailed Recipe Steps

Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly baked Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls:

Activate Yeast (if using active dry): In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup warm milk (105-115°F), 1 teaspoon sugar (from the dough ingredients), and the active dry yeast. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to leaven the dough.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, remaining sugar, salt, melted butter, and the activated yeast mixture (if using). If not using active dry yeast, combine all wet ingredients together. Add the egg and whisk well to combine. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or a dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Avoid adding all the flour at once to prevent a tough dough.
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on medium-low speed with a dough hook, or by hand on a lightly floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, the dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl. If kneading by hand, the dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not overly wet. Proper kneading develops gluten, leading to a better texture.
First Rise (Bulk Fermentation): Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm environment accelerates the rising process.
Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix until well combined. Make sure the butter is soft enough to spread easily.
Roll and Fill: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Ensure even distribution of the filling for consistent flavor.
Roll and Cut: Tightly roll the dough up from the long side into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices (approximately 1 inch thick). Cut cleanly to prevent uneven rising and baking.
Second Rise (Proofing): Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, cut-side up. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy. This final rise develops the soft and airy texture.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
Make the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency. Adjust the milk amount for your desired glaze thickness.
Glaze and Serve: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze. Serve warm and enjoy! Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to elevate your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls:

Adjust Sweetness: Reduce the sugar in the dough or filling if you prefer a less sweet roll. You can also use maple syrup instead of some of the granulated sugar.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the filling for extra warmth and flavor. Experiment with different spice combinations.
Add Nuts and Fruits: Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, raisins, or cranberries into the filling for added texture and flavor.
Make it Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter. Ensure your yeast is suitable for vegan baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly depending on the flour you choose. Consider using a gluten-free sourdough starter.
Overnight Rise: For a slower rise, refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight and bake them in the morning. This will result in a more complex flavor.
Cream Cheese Glaze: For an extra decadent glaze, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
Avoid Over-Mixing: Over-mixing the dough can result in tough cinnamon rolls. Mix until just combined.
Don’t Overbake: Overbaking will result in dry cinnamon rolls. Check for doneness around 25 minutes.
Proper Rising Time: Ensure your dough has doubled in size during both rises. This is crucial for a light and fluffy texture.

Nutritional Values and Benefits

While the exact nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used, here’s a general overview of the nutritional benefits of the Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls:

Source of Carbohydrates: The flour provides carbohydrates, which are your body’s primary energy source. Sourdough, in particular, offers complex carbohydrates that are digested more slowly, resulting in sustained energy.
Some Protein: Flour and the egg contribute to the protein content, although not a significant source.
Healthy Fats: Butter provides fats, which are necessary for various bodily functions. Choose high-quality butter for better nutritional benefits. Consider using a blend of butter and oil for a healthier version.
Fiber (from Sourdough): Sourdough fermentation increases the bioavailability of nutrients and improves digestibility. It also contributes to fiber content, promoting healthy digestion.
Antioxidants (from Cinnamon): Cinnamon is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Calcium (from Milk): Milk (if using dairy) offers calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.

Note: This is a general overview. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities.

FAQs

Can I use unfed sourdough discard in this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Unfed sourdough discard will work perfectly fine in this recipe. The rolls might have a slightly more intense sour flavor.

How long can I store leftover Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes, you can freeze both baked and unbaked rolls. For baked rolls, freeze them once completely cooled. For unbaked rolls, freeze them after the second rise. Reheat gently from frozen.

What happens if my sourdough discard is too dry?

If your sourdough discard is too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water at a time until it reaches a smooth, workable consistency. Start with small amounts and check the consistency frequently.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. This will give the flavors a chance to develop. Just allow extra time for the second rise.

Conclusion

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a true testament to the magic of resourceful baking and the delicious potential of your sourdough starter. From the unique tangy flavor to the incredibly soft texture, every bite is a delightful experience. This recipe is not only a delicious way to use up your sourdough discard but also a chance to impress your loved ones and showcase your baking skills. So, gather your ingredients, follow the detailed instructions, and get ready to enjoy the best Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to share your experience and photos with us in the comments section below! For more amazing baking recipes, check out our other posts, such as our Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins or our Christmas Thumbprint Cookies. And don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board for later!