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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Deliciously fluffy cinnamon rolls made with sourdough discard, reducing food waste and adding a tangy twist to a classic treat.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup Sourdough Discard (fed and active)
  • 1/2 cup Warm Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 4 tablespoons Melted Unsalted Butter (cooled)
  • 4-4 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda
Filling Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon
Icing Ingredients (optional)
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 2-4 tablespoons Milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowls
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Mixer (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Activate your sourdough discard: If your discard isn't already active and bubbly, feed it 6-8 hours before starting.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, warmed milk, egg, sugar, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
  3. Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  5. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Prepare the filling: While the dough is rising, in a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
  7. Roll out, fill, and roll up the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the dough. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
  8. Place in pan, second rise, and bake: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. Make the icing (optional): 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.
  10. Cool and frost: Let the rolls cool slightly in the pan before frosting with the icing (if using). Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a combination of brown and white sugar in the filling. You can also add raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips to the filling. Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.