There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, buttery cinnamon and tangy sourdough that makes sourdough discard cinnamon rolls one of the best treats you can bake at home. These rolls are not only an incredible way to use up excess sourdough discard, but they’re also a flavorful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making sourdough discard cinnamon rolls, from understanding the benefits of using sourdough discard to a step-by-step recipe that will ensure perfect results.
What Is Sourdough Discard?
Sourdough discard refers to the portion of sourdough starter that is removed before feeding the remaining starter with fresh flour and water. It is typically unfed and not suitable for making bread, but it’s packed with flavor and can be used in many baking recipes. The discard has a more pronounced tangy flavor, making it a fantastic addition to sweet treats like cinnamon rolls.
Instead of wasting the discard, many bakers have found ways to incorporate it into recipes, such as pancakes, waffles, and these delicious cinnamon rolls. The beauty of using sourdough discard lies in its ability to enhance the texture and flavor of baked goods, without requiring the long fermentation times associated with regular sourdough bread.
For those looking to reduce food waste, using sourdough discard in baking is a perfect solution. You can learn more about the benefits of sourdough discard and its fermentation properties and why it’s worth incorporating into your kitchen routine.
Why Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?
There are several reasons why sourdough discard cinnamon rolls have become a favorite among home bakers. These rolls not only boast a rich flavor profile but also offer a soft, tender texture that’s hard to beat. Here’s why you should try making them:
- No waste: By using sourdough discard, you’re preventing food waste while making a delicious treat.
- Enhanced flavor: The tanginess of sourdough discard pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cinnamon and sugar filling.
- Better texture: The moisture from the discard adds tenderness to the rolls, making them softer and more enjoyable.
Another great reason to bake these rolls is their versatility. Whether you’re making them for a family breakfast, holiday brunch, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a hit. Plus, if you’re new to sourdough baking, these rolls offer a beginner-friendly way to start using discard in recipes.
For more discard-friendly recipe ideas, check out sourdough discard recipes here.
Essential Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Before we dive into the recipe, it’s important to understand the role of each ingredient. The following are the essentials you’ll need to make sourdough discard cinnamon rolls:
- Sourdough discard: Provides flavor and moisture to the dough.
- Butter: Adds richness to both the dough and the filling.
- Brown sugar: Sweetens the filling and caramelizes during baking.
- Cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and flavor.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents ensure the rolls rise and become fluffy without the need for long fermentation.
- Cream cheese: Used in the frosting to add tanginess and balance the sweetness of the rolls.
- Heavy cream: Creates a creamy, luscious texture for the frosting.
Tools You’ll Need
To make the process smooth, gather the following tools before you begin:
- Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough to the right thickness.
- Bench scraper: Useful for handling sticky dough and rolling it up neatly.
- Sharp knife or dental floss: Dental floss is an excellent tool for cutting clean, even rolls without squishing them.
- Cast-iron skillet or baking dish: This will give you even heat distribution and a perfectly baked batch of rolls.
- Silicone spatula: For spreading the filling and handling the dough.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls: Step-by-Step
1st Step: Preparing the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Add the wet ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a richer flavor)
- Stir the mixture until a ball of dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth.
2nd Step: Rolling Out the Dough
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Be sure to dust your surface with flour to prevent sticking.
- The thinner you roll the dough, the more layers of filling you’ll get in each bite. Aim for consistency in thickness to ensure even baking.
3rd Step: Making the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together:
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- Spread this mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough using a spatula. Make sure every inch is covered for a rich, flavorful filling.
4th Step: Rolling and Cutting the Dough
- Starting from the long side of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- To cut the rolls evenly, use a sharp knife or dental floss. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a lightly oiled cast-iron skillet or a 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
5th Step: Baking the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
- Once baked, let the rolls cool for 10-15 minutes before frosting them.
Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
While the rolls are baking, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- In a saucepan, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, and sweetener of your choice.
- Stir over medium heat until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour the frosting over the warm rolls and serve.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- For a long-ferment option, mix the dough without the baking powder and soda, and let it rise overnight. The next day, knead in the leavening agents before rolling out the dough.
- Be consistent with your roll size to ensure even baking.
- If you prefer a softer texture, place the rolls closer together in the pan. For a firmer crust, space them further apart.
Storing and Reheating
Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container if they’re unfrosted. If frosted, store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat the rolls, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds.
For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted rolls in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw, reheat, and frost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is sourdough discard popular in recipes?
Many bakers use sourdough discard in recipes to avoid food waste. The discard adds a tangy flavor and enhances the texture of baked goods. It also provides prebiotic benefits and increases the nutritional value of the final product.
Can you eat raw sourdough starter or discard?
It’s not advisable to eat raw sourdough starter or discard, as both contain uncooked flour, which can carry harmful bacteria. Always cook or bake discard recipes to ensure safety.
What can I do with a lot of sourdough discard?
Aside from making cinnamon rolls, you can use sourdough discard in a variety of recipes, such as sourdough pizza crust, pancakes, waffles, and more. Check out this list of sourdough discard recipes for more ideas.
How long is sourdough discard good for?
Sourdough discard can last indefinitely if stored properly. Keep it in the refrigerator and feed it every 7-10 days to maintain its quality.
What is the difference between cinnamon buns and cinnamon rolls?
Cinnamon buns often include nuts or raisins in the filling, while cinnamon rolls typically don’t. Both are delicious, but cinnamon rolls focus more on the buttery, cinnamon sugar filling without additional textures from nuts or dried fruits.
Should I use a glass or metal pan for baking cinnamon rolls?
You can use either. A metal pan provides a crispier crust, while a glass pan may require a lower baking temperature and will result in a softer exterior.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a great way to use up extra discard while making a special, crowd-pleasing treat. The combination of tangy sourdough and sweet cinnamon is truly irresistible. With the step-by-step instructions in this guide, you’ll be able to master the art of making these rolls and enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or any time of day.
Be sure to experiment with different fillings and frostings to make the recipe your own. And don’t forget—sourdough discard offers endless possibilities for creative baking beyond cinnamon rolls.
Happy baking!