Make irresistible sourdough cinnamon rolls with this simple recipe

The smell of sourdough cinnamon rolls baking is amazing. Every home is blessed by the feel and cheer that comes with it. I remember cozy mornings with my grandmother in the kitchen. We kneaded dough and waited for the sweet rolls to come out.

The rolls were soft and filled with cinnamon. 

If you want to make these treats at home, you’re in the right place. This recipe will help you make sourdough cinnamon rolls. You can choose to raise them overnight or make them on the same day. Sourdough adds a special flavor to cinnamon rolls, making them even better.

Let’s start baking together. You’ll impress your family and friends with these homemade sourdough cinnamon rolls. They’ll fill your home with cinnamon and warm memories.

Understanding the Magic of Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Sourdough is more than a trend in baking. It’s a key to amazing flavor and texture in cinnamon rolls. The magic happens during fermentation, which gives sourdough its special taste.

The Science Behind Sourdough Fermentation

Sourdough fermentation is a slow, natural process.This allows wild yeast and beneficial bacteria to thrive. These microorganisms create lactic and acetic acids, giving sourdough its tangy taste and chewiness.

This process also breaks down starches and proteins. This makes the dough more digestible and packed with nutrients.

Benefits of Using Sourdough in Baking

• Improved digestibility: Gluten is also partly digested during fermentation to make it easier for your gut to handle it.
• Enhanced flavor: The complex flavors from fermentation add depth and richness to your cinnamon rolls.
• Increased shelf life: Sourdough baked goods stay fresh longer, thanks to the fermented dough’s natural preservatives.
• Reduced waste: Using sourdough discard reduces food waste and adds flavor to your cinnamon rolls.

Adding sourdough to your cinnamon roll recipe opens up a world of delicious flavors. By understanding fermentation, you can make sourdough cinnamon rolls that are both tasty and healthy.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

To make the ultimate sourdough cinnamon rolls, you need the right ingredients. From the sourdough starter to the cinnamon filling, each part is important. Let’s look at what makes these rolls irresistible.

Flour Power

The flour is the base of your sourdough cinnamon rolls. All-purpose flour is good, but adding bread flour makes the dough chewier. Experiment with the flours and you may find the combination you prefer most.

Sourdough Starter: The Dough Whisperer

This is contributed by the fact that an active sourdough starter used in making the rolls is responsible for not only the taste but also the leavening of the rolls. It should be foamy and the smell should be sour. 

Milk, Butter, and Sugar

Milk makes the dough tender, and butter adds richness. Sugar sweetens the rolls and helps them brown in the oven. You should give several types of milk a try to choose the one you like. 

Eggs and Salt

Eggs help the dough rise and give it structure. Salt balances the sweetness of the cinnamon filling.

Cinnamon: The Star Ingredient

Cinnamon is the main attraction in sourdough cinnamon rolls. Use high-quality cinnamon for a warm, aromatic filling that will delight your taste buds.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make sourdough cinnamon rolls that will impress everyone. Your baking skills will shine through.

Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

Making delicious same day sourdough cinnamon rolls needs the right tools. You’ll need everything from basic items to extra tools. These will help you make your baked masterpiece easily.

Must-Have Baking Tools

• Mixing bowls in various sizes
• Different spoons and cups to accommodate each of the different portions used in the ingredients.
• A sturdy rolling pin to shape your dough
• An accurate knife or bench scraper,  to slice through the rolled dough
• Baking pans or sheets to accommodate your cinnamon roll layout

Optional but Helpful Equipment

Some tools are not necessary but can make baking easier:

1. A stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for efficient kneading
2. A dough scraper to aid in lifting and transferring the delicate dough
3. A pastry brush which is used for applying butter or egg wash to the rolls
4. A kitchen scale to measure the ingredients properly.

Having these tools can make baking same-day sourdough cinnamon rolls smoother. It lets you get bakery-quality results with confidence.

Preparing Your Active Sourdough Starter

Before you can make your sourdough cinnamon rolls, you need a ready sourdough starter. A healthy starter is crucial for the rolls’ flavor and texture. It makes them irresistible.

To get your starter ready, start by feeding it. Use equal parts sourdough discard, flour, and water. A good starting ratio is 1 part discard to 1 part each of flour and water. Put it at an ordinary temperature and let it rise for 8-12 hours. It should double in size, showing lots of bubbles and volume.

When your starter is active, it’s time to mix it into your dough. To check if it’s ready, drop a spoonful into water. If it floats, it’s ready. If not, wait a bit longer.

Remember, your sourdough starter needs regular care. Even if you’re not baking, keep feeding it. With proper care, your starter will help make cinnamon rolls that are truly amazing.

Making the Perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Dough

Making the perfect overnight sourdough cinnamon roll dough takes skill and patience. The first method can be done by hand, while the latter can be done with the help of a stand mixer. The goal is to get the right consistency and let it rise properly.

Mixing and Kneading Techniques

Start by mixing your active sourdough starter, warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a big bowl. Use a wooden spoon or the stand mixer’s paddle to mix until everything is well combined. Next, add the all-purpose flour slowly, kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. This might take 5-10 minutes by hand or 3-5 minutes with a stand mixer.

It’s important not to overwork the dough. This can make the rolls tough and dense. Instead, knead gently until the dough can be stretched thin without tearing.

First Rise Tips

1. Place this dough in a bowl greased with oil and use a towel or plastic wrap to cover the bowl.
2. Allow the dough to ferment at room temperature anywhere from six to eight hours, and the size of the dough should double 
3. For an overnight option, refrigerate the dough for 12-24 hours. Then, let it come to room temperature before you continue.

The first rise is crucial. It lets the sourdough fermentation work its magic. This step enhances the dough’s flavor and texture, making the rolls soft and delicious.

Creating the Irresistible Cinnamon Filling

The cinnamon filling is the star of the sourdough cinnamon roll recipe. That is why the concept of balance between sweet and spicy is so important here. We’ll share a classic cinnamon-filling recipe and tips to make your sourdough cinnamon rolls even better.

To make the cinnamon filling, you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons (25g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) salt
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter, softened

In one small bowl, you would need to combine brown sugar and cinnamon along with salt. Make sure they’re well combined. Then, add the softened butter and mix until it’s spreadable.

Want to add more flavor? Why not sprinkle a little vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg? You can also play with spices like cardamom or cloves to make your sourdough cinnamon roll recipe unique. 

Now that you have your cinnamon filling ready, it’s time to roll and shape your sourdough cinnamon rolls. Spread the filling generously over the dough. This will create those amazing swirls and layers of flavor.

Rolling and Shaping Your Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Learning to roll and shape sourdough cinnamon rolls is crucial. It helps you get that perfect spiral and flaky texture. Follow these steps to make sure your discarded cinnamon rolls are always a hit.

Step-by-Step Rolling Guide

Begin by rolling out your dough into a big rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Make sure to use a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking. Spread the cinnamon filling all over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around it.

1. Roll the dough into a tight spiral, starting from the long side closest to you and working your way up.
2. Use your hands to gently shape the roll, ensuring it maintains an even thickness throughout.
3. Once fully rolled, use a sharp knife to cut the log into 8-10 equal pieces.

Cutting and Arranging Tips

To make clean cuts whip out a sharp knife that is serrated and use very little force when slicing your cinnamon rolls. This will help you achieve clean, uniform slices. Arrange the cut rolls in a greased baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each one to allow for expansion during the second rise.

With these rolling and shaping techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly swirled, discarded cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Second Rise and Proofing Methods

Getting the second rise right is key for perfect same-day sourdough cinnamon rolls and overnight sourdough cinnamon rolls. This step lets the dough grow stronger and taste better. It’s what makes your rolls look and taste amazing.

You can choose between a same-day or overnight proof. Same-day proofing lets the rolls rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Overnight proofing means refrigerating them for 8-12 hours for a slow rise.

Keep an eye on your rolls while they’re proofing. They should feel light and look bigger. To check if they’re done, poke them gently. If they spring back slowly, they’re ready for baking.

Watching your rolls closely during proofing is crucial. It ensures they rise and feel just right. This makes your same-day sourdough cinnamon rolls or overnight sourdough cinnamon rolls taste and look great.

Baking Your Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls to Perfection

The final step is baking your sourdough cinnamon rolls. Follow the right temperature and timing. Also, watch for visual cues to ensure they’re golden, fluffy, and full of cinnamon-sugar goodness.

Temperature and Timing Guidelines

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the shaped and proofed rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure that they are to some extent not placed close to each other. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until they’re golden brown and crisp.

Visual Cues for Doneness

• The rolls should have risen significantly and appear light and fluffy.
• The tops should be a deep, even golden brown color.
• When you gently press on the top of a roll, it should spring back slightly, indicating the interior is fully baked.
• You may notice some caramelized cinnamon sugar bubbling around the edges, which is a sign of perfection.

Look at the rolls of pastry in the final moments. Ovens can vary, and you don’t want them to overbake. If the tops are browning too quickly, cover the baking sheet with foil to prevent further browning.

Once the sourdough cinnamon rolls are perfectly baked, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool for several minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the filling to set and the rolls to firm up slightly. Enjoy these warm, fragrant treats with your loved ones!

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

A rich cream cheese frosting is the perfect finish for your sourdough cinnamon rolls. It combines cream cheese’s richness with powdered sugar’s sweetness. This creates a smooth, luscious texture that enhances the rolls.  

The first step is to have your cream cheese used at room temperature before proceeding to any other step. This makes it easily incorporable with other ingredients. Image credit: Shutterstock Unfortunately, I do not own a stand mixer and therefore, I used my hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it became fluffy. Subtract milk progressively and then mix in powdered sugar until the frosting is creamy and of the desired consistency.

For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar. For a softer texture, add heavy cream or milk. Once your rolls are slightly cool, spread the frosting over them. You might also opt for using a piping bag for making swirl shapes.

Consider topping the frosted rolls with cinnamon or caramel sauce for extra indulgence. Enjoy the perfect pairing of tangy sourdough rolls and creamy frosting.

FAQ

Can I use my sourdough discard to make cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can! Sourdough discard adds flavor and texture to cinnamon rolls. It gives a tangy taste that goes well with cinnamon and frosting.

What are the benefits of using sourdough in cinnamon rolls?

Using sourdough in cinnamon rolls has many benefits. It makes the dough easier to digest. The rolls become softer and tastier, unlike regular yeasted dough.

Can I make these sourdough cinnamon rolls the day of, or do they need to be made overnight?

You can choose! This recipe works for same-day or overnight preparation. For warm rolls, skip the overnight rise. For deeper flavor, let it rise overnight before baking.

What are the requirements for this sourdough cinnamon roll?

You’ll need flour, sourdough starter, milk, butter, sugar, eggs, salt, and cinnamon. Don’t forget cream cheese for the frosting. For the best taste, apply fresh quality ingredients when preparing the food dishes.

What equipment do I need to make sourdough cinnamon rolls?

You’ll need mixing bowls, a rolling pin, and a sharp knife or bench scraper. A stand mixer with a dough hook is helpful for kneading. You might also want a dough scraper, pastry brush, and a kitchen scale.

How do I prepare my sourdough starter for this recipe?

Ensure that you are using a healthy ACTIVE SOURDOUGH STARTER at its prime time. Add it several hours before mixing the dough. This will make it strong enough to knead the dough well charge.

In what manner should I combine the sourdough cinnamon roll dough, and how should I knead it?

Mix the dough by hand or with a stand mixer. Start with flour, sourdough starter, milk, butter, sugar, eggs, and salt. Knead until it’s smooth and elastic.

How do I create the perfect cinnamon filling?

For the filling mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter in a different bowl. This also brings another balance to the equation, sweet to spicy. Moreover, they can also be served with nutmeg to enhance taste or with vanilla essence.

How do I roll and shape the sourdough cinnamon rolls?

Roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling over it. Roll it into a spiral. Slice into rolls and arrange them in a baking pan.

How do I ensure my sourdough cinnamon rolls rise properly?

For light, fluffy rolls, let them rise well. After shaping, let them rise at room temperature or in the fridge overnight. Bake when they’re puffy and doubled in size.

What are the signs that tell me that my sourdough cinnamon rolls have been well cooked?

Rolls are done when they’re golden and the internal temperature is 190°F to 200°F. Look for signs like pulling away from the pan and filling bubbling. Cool slightly before frosting.