Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe You Can’t Live Without

Soft, fluffy dough, the sweet aroma of cinnamon, and the tangy twist of sourdough combine to create the ultimate breakfast treat. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or a cozy morning at home, these sourdough cinnamon rolls are irresistibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Ready to elevate your mornings? Let’s get baking!

1. Key Benefits

Why should you try making these sourdough cinnamon rolls at home? Aside from the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen, there are plenty of benefits to choosing this recipe over store-bought options. Let me walk you through some of the reasons you’ll love these homemade cinnamon rolls:

• Boosted Flavor with Fermentation: The star of the show here is the sourdough starter. While traditional cinnamon rolls use instant yeast, sourdough offers a deeper, richer flavor thanks to the natural fermentation process. The result? A tangy, flavorful dough that makes each bite a bit more complex and satisfying.
• Perfect Texture: Thanks to the long fermentation process, these rolls are incredibly soft and fluffy. The sourdough starter helps the dough rise perfectly, creating layers that melt in your mouth, just like the best bakery-style rolls.
• Healthier Alternative: While still a treat, sourdough is often easier to digest than other types of bread due to the fermentation process, which breaks down some of the gluten and sugars. Plus, homemade means you control the ingredients—no preservatives or artificial flavors here!
• Customizable Sweetness: You have full control over how sweet you want your rolls to be. Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in the cinnamon filling or icing to suit your taste. Want a less sweet breakfast option? Just reduce the sugar slightly for a more balanced flavor.
• Versatility: These sourdough cinnamon rolls aren’t just for breakfast! You can serve them at brunch, pack them for picnics, or even bring them to a holiday gathering. They’re a crowd-pleasing treat that fits any occasion.

With all these benefits in mind, it’s no wonder this sourdough cinnamon roll recipe will become your new go-to. Ready to get started? Let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need!

2. Ingredients

To create the perfect batch of sourdough cinnamon rolls, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together to form a soft, buttery dough and a rich, flavorful filling. Here’s everything you need:

• Sourdough Starter: This is the key to giving your cinnamon rolls that distinctive, tangy flavor. Make sure your starter is active and bubbly. If you don’t have one yet, you can easily make it yourself or buy some from a local bakery.
• All-Purpose Flour: This provides the structure for your dough. Opt for unbleached all-purpose flour for the best texture and rise.
• Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon will give your rolls that irresistible warmth and aroma. The scent alone will have you craving them!
• Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to your dough and helps with the rise. You’ll also use it in the cinnamon filling for that perfect balance of sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds depth and richness to the cinnamon filling, creating a delightful caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
• Butter: Use softened butter for the dough to keep it soft and tender. You’ll also need some melted butter for spreading over the dough before you sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar, helping it all stick together.
• Eggs: Eggs help enrich the dough, giving it a lovely golden color and contributing to its soft, airy texture.
• Milk: Milk makes the dough smooth and pliable. Full-fat milk will give it a richer texture, but feel free to substitute with any dairy-free option like almond or oat milk.
• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the dough’s overall flavor.
• Active Dry Yeast: While the sourdough starter does most of the work, a small amount of yeast gives your dough a little extra lift and ensures the rolls are soft and fluffy.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds a warm, subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavor of the dough.

Before you begin, make sure everything is measured and ready to go. This will make the baking process easier and more fun.Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, we’re ready to move on to the next step!

3. Instructions

Now comes the fun part—baking these beautiful sourdough cinnamon rolls! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon have a batch of soft, sweet rolls that are impossible to resist. Let’s dive in:

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of active sourdough starter, 1 cup of warm milk, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix gently to combine.
• Add 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir until everything is incorporated.
• Add 1 beaten egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix to form a dough.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour—just be careful not to overdo it. You want a dough that’s soft but not overly sticky.

2. Knead the Dough

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes.If you’re unfamiliar with kneading dough, gently press your palms into the dough, fold it over, and keep repeating the process.It’s a great workout for your hands!
• The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little flour as you knead.

3. Let It Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Patience is key here! If you want a more developed flavor, let it rise in the fridge overnight.

4. Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

• While the dough rises, mix together ½ cup of melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. This sweet filling is what makes these rolls so irresistible!

5. Shape the Rolls

• After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any trapped air bubbles.Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle about 12×18 inches.
• Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, ensuring you leave a small border around the edges. Then, carefully roll the dough up tightly, starting from the longer side.
• Once rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the dough into 12 even pieces.

6. Second Rise

• Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they’re close together but not squished. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another hour, or until they’re puffy and touching each other.

7. Bake the Rolls

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and have risen nicely. The kitchen will smell amazing during this step!

8. Glaze or Frost (Optional)

• If you like your cinnamon rolls with a little extra sweetness, drizzle them with a glaze or frosting of your choice. You can make a simple powdered sugar glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk and a dash of vanilla extract. Alternatively, you can go for a cream cheese frosting for a richer touch.

Once your sourdough cinnamon rolls are baked and golden brown, let them cool slightly before enjoying. But don’t wait too long—these delicious rolls are best when they’re fresh out of the oven!

Ready to dive into this warm, gooey treat? Let’s move on to some pro tips and variations to take your cinnamon rolls to the next level!

4. Pro Tips and Variations

Looking to take your sourdough cinnamon rolls to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations that will elevate your baking game and help you create the most delicious rolls every time.

Pro Tips

• Use an Active Sourdough Starter: The key to great sourdough cinnamon rolls is a bubbly and active starter. Make sure your starter is well-fed and has been left to rise for at least 6-8 hours before using it in the recipe. This will give your rolls that signature tangy flavor.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: While kneading is important, it’s equally important not to overdo it. Overworking the dough can lead to tough rolls. Once it’s smooth and elastic, you’re good to go!
• Ensure a Warm Environment for Rising: Dough loves warmth! Make sure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free place. If your kitchen is on the colder side, try preheating your oven for a couple of minutes, then turning it off and letting the dough rise inside. This creates a cozy, warm environment that promotes a perfect rise.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Every oven bakes a bit differently, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure you’re at the correct temperature. This helps prevent over-baking or under-baking your rolls. Aim for a golden brown color on top and a soft, fluffy interior.

Fun Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to your cinnamon-sugar filling for a delightful crunch. The nuts will add texture and a warm, nutty flavor to complement the sweetness.
• Fruity Flavor: For a fruity touch, you can mix in some raisins or dried cranberries into the cinnamon filling. They’ll add a bit of tartness and a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon.
• Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: If you’re a chocolate fan, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the cinnamon filling. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon is a crowd-pleaser, and it makes these rolls even more indulgent.
• Caramel Glaze: Instead of a traditional glaze, try making a homemade caramel sauce. Drizzle it over your rolls after they’ve cooled for a rich, gooey finish. The caramel’s richness will add a decadent touch.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, swap the butter and milk for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil. The results are just as delicious, and you won’t miss the dairy at all!

Make-Ahead Tips

• Overnight Rise: For an even easier baking experience, you can prepare the dough the night before. After shaping the rolls, cover them tightly and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, simply let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before baking. This gives the rolls a slow, cold rise that enhances the flavor.
• Freezing Option: You can also freeze the unbaked rolls. Once shaped and in the baking dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw and rise for about 2 hours before popping them in the oven. Fresh cinnamon rolls, ready to bake, whenever you want!

These tips and variations allow you to customize your sourdough cinnamon rolls based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re keeping it classic or trying something new, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Ready to enjoy your perfectly baked, customized cinnamon rolls? Let’s move on to the next section for some serving suggestions!

5. Serving Suggestions

Now that your sourdough cinnamon rolls are fresh out of the oven, it’s time to enjoy them! Here are some tasty ways to serve and enjoy these delicious, gooey treats, whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Classic Breakfast Delight

• Serve your cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven for a warm, comforting breakfast. Pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a hot cappuccino for the perfect morning treat. For an extra indulgent touch, add a side of crispy bacon or scrambled eggs to balance out the sweetness.

Brunch Centerpiece

• If you’re hosting a brunch, these cinnamon rolls make a wonderful centerpiece. Arrange them on a platter and drizzle with your favorite glaze or frosting. You can also add fresh fruit on the side, like strawberries, blueberries, or even sliced oranges, for a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavor of the rolls.

Dessert Perfection

• Sourdough cinnamon rolls also shine as a dessert! Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. For an extra treat, you can drizzle chocolate sauce or a salted caramel glaze over the top—there’s no such thing as too much sweetness!

Sharing with Loved Ones

• These cinnamon rolls are perfect for sharing with friends and family. If you’re entertaining, place the rolls on a large serving tray and let everyone help themselves. You can even wrap them individually for a thoughtful homemade gift for a special occasion.

Creative Leftover Ideas

• If you happen to have any leftover rolls (which is rare!), you can repurpose them into a decadent bread pudding. Simply cube the rolls, soak them in a custard mixture (eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla), and bake until golden brown. You’ll have a whole new dessert to enjoy!
• Leftover rolls can also be toasted and served with butter for a quick snack later on. The sweetness and buttery goodness come through beautifully even after a little toasting.

For the Kids

• Cinnamon rolls are always a hit with kids. You can even get them involved by letting them add their own toppings—whether it’s extra cinnamon sugar, sprinkles, or even some mini chocolate chips! It’s a fun way to get everyone in the kitchen and make the experience even more special.

These serving suggestions can help you enjoy your sourdough cinnamon rolls in so many ways! Whether you’re treating yourself to a sweet breakfast or serving them at a gathering, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Ready for the final thoughts and some FAQs? Let’s move on to the conclusion!

6. Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious, soft, and irresistible batch of sourdough cinnamon rolls that will quickly become your new favorite treat. From the tangy depth of the sourdough starter to the warm, comforting cinnamon-sugar filling, these rolls are a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-time attempt, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your kitchen and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love These Rolls:

• Unique Flavor: The sourdough starter adds a depth of flavor that regular cinnamon rolls simply can’t match. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
• Soft and Fluffy: With a dough that’s kneaded just enough and allowed to rise properly, the result is a soft, airy, and fluffy roll thhttps://www.itemrecipes.com/pickle-pie-pizza/at melts in your mouth.
• Customizable: Whether you like them plain, glazed, or with extra fillings, this recipe is easily adaptable to your personal tastes.
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Remember, the beauty of sourdough cinnamon rolls is not just in the baking process, but in the enjoyment of each warm, gooey bite. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones, serving them at brunch, or indulging on your own, these rolls are sure to brighten any day.

Ready to bake your own batch? We hope you give this recipe a try and fall in love with it as much as we did. Let the sweet smell of cinnamon fill your home, and enjoy the process of creating something homemade with love.

Happy baking!

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe You Can’t Live Without

itemrecipes.com

Sourdough cinnamon rolls served on a rustic wooden platter, topped with glaze, and accompanied by a cup of coffee and cinnamon sticks for a cozy breakfast setting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 rolls

Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• Sourdough Starter: This is the key to giving your cinnamon rolls that distinctive tangy flavor. Make sure your starter is active and bubbly. If you don’t have one yet, you can easily make it yourself or buy some from a local bakery.
• All-Purpose Flour: This provides the structure for your dough. Opt for unbleached all-purpose flour for the best texture and rise.
• Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon will give your rolls that irresistible warmth and aroma. The scent alone will have you craving them!
• Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to your dough and helps with the rise. You’ll also use it in the cinnamon filling for that perfect balance of sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds depth and richness to the cinnamon filling creating a delightful caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
• Butter: Use softened butter for the dough to keep it soft and tender. You’ll also need some melted butter for spreading over the dough before you sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar helping it all stick together.
• Eggs: Eggs help enrich the dough giving it a lovely golden color and contributing to its soft, airy texture.
• Milk: Milk makes the dough smooth and pliable. Full-fat milk will give it a richer texture but feel free to substitute with any dairy-free option like almond or oat milk.
• Salt: A pinch of salt brings out all the flavors balancing the sweetness and enhancing the dough’s overall flavor.
• Active Dry Yeast: While the sourdough starter does most of the work a small amount of yeast gives your dough a little extra lift and ensures the rolls are soft and fluffy.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds a warm subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavor of the dough.

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Prepare the Dough
• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of active sourdough starter, 1 cup of warm milk, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Mix gently to combine.
• Add 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir until everything is incorporated.
• Add 1 beaten egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix to form a dough.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour—just be careful not to overdo it. You want a dough that’s soft but not overly sticky.
• Knead the Dough
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes.If you’re unfamiliar with kneading dough, gently press your palms into the dough, fold it over, and keep repeating the process.It’s a great workout for your hands!
• The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little flour as you knead.
• Let It Rise
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Patience is key here! If you want a more developed flavor, let it rise in the fridge overnight.
• Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
• While the dough rises, mix together ½ cup of melted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. This sweet filling is what makes these rolls so irresistible!
• Shape the Rolls
• After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any trapped air bubbles.Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle about 12×18 inches.
• Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, ensuring you leave a small border around the edges. Then, carefully roll the dough up tightly, starting from the longer side.
• Once rolled, use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice the dough into 12 even pieces.
• Second Rise
• Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they’re close together but not squished. Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another hour, or until they’re puffy and touching each other.
• Bake the Rolls
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and have risen nicely. The kitchen will smell amazing during this step!
• Glaze or Frost (Optional)
• If you like your cinnamon rolls with a little extra sweetness, drizzle them with a glaze or frosting of your choice. You can make a simple powdered sugar glaze by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk and a dash of vanilla extract. Alternatively, you can go for a cream cheese frosting for a richer touch.

Keyword breakfast rolls, homemade rolls, soft cinnamon rolls, Sourdough cinnamon rolls

7. FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make these sourdough cinnamon rolls with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these tips will guide you through any challenges that may arise!

With these FAQs, you should have all the answers to help you bake perfect sourdough cinnamon rolls every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to your liking. Baking is as much about enjoying the process as it is about the final product. Happy baking!