These soft and fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect way to use up your sourdough discard. They’re packed with cinnamon sugar, topped with creamy frosting, and offer a subtle tangy flavor that takes homemade cinnamon rolls to the next level.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sourdough discard, flour, milk, sugar, butter, eggs, and optional yeast. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (3–4 hours or longer if relying solely on sourdough).
Prepare the Filling
Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.
Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle (~12x18 inches).
Spread Butter: Evenly spread softened butter over the rolled dough.
Add Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered dough.
Shape the Rolls
Roll the Dough: Starting at the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
Slice the Rolls: Cut the log into 12 even slices (~1–1½ inches thick) using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Arrange in Pan: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, leaving space between them.
Proof and Bake
Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let rise for 1–2 hours until puffy and nearly doubled.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes before frosting.
Make the Frosting
Blend Ingredients: Beat softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.
Frost the Rolls: Spread or drizzle the frosting over warm rolls.
Notes
Sourdough discard adds a mild tang but can be substituted with active starter for a stronger flavor.
You can refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight and bake them fresh in the morning.
Adjust milk in the frosting to reach your desired consistency.