Irresistible Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are not just any ordinary pastry; they are little fluffy clouds of joy that will make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through your home, wrapping you in a warm embrace as if it were your favorite blanket on a chilly morning. These rolls are soft, gooey, and just the right amount of sweet, making them the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack while binge-watching your favorite series in your pajamas.

Let me take you back to my first encounter with these delightful cinnamon rolls. It was a lazy Sunday morning, and I found myself staring at a bowl of sourdough discard, pondering what to do with this bubbly concoction that seemed more like a science experiment than a baking ingredient. Fast forward to me covered in flour and giggling as I rolled out dough like a pro (or so I thought). The result? A batch of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls that vanished quicker than my enthusiasm for doing laundry. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll understand the excitement.

Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Sourdough Discard: About 1 cup of sourdough discard gives these rolls their unique flavor and texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need around 3-4 cups for the dough; adjust based on consistency.
• Granulated Sugar: About ½ cup adds sweetness to the dough and filling.
• Active Dry Yeast: One packet (2¼ teaspoons) helps the rolls rise into fluffy perfection.
• Milk: Use whole milk (¾ cup) for richer flavor; warm it slightly before adding.
• Butter: About ¼ cup melted butter adds richness to the dough and filling.

For the Filling:

• Cinnamon: You’ll need about 2 tablespoons for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Use about ½ cup packed brown sugar for an extra layer of sweetness.

For the Frosting:

• Powdered Sugar: About 1 cup gives a sweet topping that melts in your mouth.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a teaspoon adds depth to the frosting’s flavor.
• Milk: A couple of tablespoons will help achieve that perfect drizzle consistency.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by warming your milk until it’s lukewarm—just warm enough that you can dip your finger in without feeling like you’ve touched molten lava. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk with granulated sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about five minutes until it’s frothy like a happy little bubble bath.

Step 2: Mix It Up

Now add in your sourdough discard and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms. If you’re feeling adventurous, channel your inner baker and get those hands dirty by kneading it until smooth—about five minutes should do the trick!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your dough in an oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm area until doubled in size—this usually takes about an hour, but feel free to use this time to tackle those laundry piles or binge-watch another episode.

Step 4: Roll It Out

Once risen, punch down the dough (yes, it’s as satisfying as it sounds!) and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle—about half an inch thick will do nicely. Brush melted butter over the surface before sprinkling cinnamon and brown sugar evenly across.

Step 5: Roll & Cut

Roll up your dough tightly from one long side to another into a log shape. Using a sharp knife or dental floss (seriously!), slice into even pieces—about one inch thick works well. Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Bake & Enjoy

Cover again and let them rise for another thirty minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those beautiful rolls for about twenty-five minutes until golden brown. Once baked, let them cool slightly before drizzling with frosting made from powdered sugar mixed with vanilla extract and milk.

Transfer them onto plates or straight into your mouth—no judgment here! Enjoy every scrumptious bite of these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your sourdough discard with flour, sugar, and a dash of salt. Allow the dough to rise before rolling it out. Spread cinnamon and butter on top, roll it up like a cozy burrito, slice it, and let those beauties rise again before baking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch things up! Use brown sugar instead of white for a deeper flavor, or add nuts or dried fruit for a delightful surprise in every bite. A drizzle of cream cheese frosting can elevate your rolls from good to “where have you been all my life?”

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently in the microwave or for a few minutes in the oven to bring back that fresh-baked goodness.

Sometimes I whip up these rolls when friends come over for brunch, and their faces light up as they take that first bite – it’s pure magic!

FAQs:

What are Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful pastry made using leftover sourdough starter. This recipe takes advantage of the tangy flavor and unique texture that sourdough brings. By incorporating the discard into the dough, you minimize waste while crafting soft, pillowy rolls swirled with cinnamon and sugar. These rolls not only taste fantastic but also provide a wonderful way to utilize your sourdough starter effectively.

How do I store Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

To store Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for about a week or freezing them for up to three months. If you freeze the rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy later, simply thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time. After shaping the rolls, cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight before baking. This method allows the flavors to develop further while saving you time on the day of baking. Simply remove the rolls from the fridge, let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. This makes breakfast or brunch planning much easier!

What can I use instead of sourdough discard in this recipe?

If you don’t have sourdough discard on hand, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk. These alternatives will provide moisture and acidity similar to that of sourdough starter, which helps activate the yeast in your dough. However, keep in mind that the unique flavor profile of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls may differ slightly when using these substitutes.

Conclusion for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls:

In summary, Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls offer a delicious way to utilize leftover sourdough starter while treating yourself and your loved ones to a sweet indulgence. The combination of soft dough and rich cinnamon filling creates an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion. With easy storage options and the ability to prepare ahead of time, these rolls are both practical and delightful. Enjoy making these scrumptious rolls and savor every bite!