If you’re a fan of homemade cinnamon rolls but looking for a way to use up your sourdough discard, you’ve come to the right place! Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a perfect way to create a delicious treat while minimizing food waste. Plus, the sourdough discard adds a tangy depth of flavor to the traditional cinnamon roll recipe that you won’t find anywhere else.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making fluffy, delicious cinnamon rolls using sourdough discard, along with some tips and variations to try. By the end, you’ll have a warm, irresistible batch of rolls that make the most of your leftover starter.
What Is Sourdough Discard?
Sourdough discard is the portion of sourdough starter removed during the feeding process. Many bakers tend to throw it away, but using discard in recipes is a great way to reduce waste. The discard still has a tangy flavor and slight fermentation, making it a versatile ingredient for various baked goods.
For example, if you’re curious about the health benefits of sourdough discard in baking, check out how fermentation enhances sourdough bread, as mentioned in this article on sourdough sandwich bread. Using sourdough discard in cinnamon rolls enhances the flavor of the dough, adding a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the cinnamon filling.
Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious rolls:
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ¾ cup milk (lukewarm)
- ¼ cup butter (softened)
- 1 egg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar for filling
- Optional: cream cheese frosting, nuts, or dried fruits
For those exploring different variations, you might want to learn more about how other recipes like pound cake use simple ingredients to elevate flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
1. Making the Dough
Start by mixing your sourdough discard with lukewarm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until the yeast is activated. Then, add flour, salt, and an egg, and knead the dough until smooth. Add softened butter and knead again until it’s fully incorporated.
- Tip: The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the right consistency.
2. Preparing the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. This will be your cinnamon-sugar filling. If you’d like, you can also add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
3. Rolling and Shaping the Cinnamon Rolls
Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly across the dough, then roll it up tightly from one end to the other.
Cut the roll into 12 evenly sized pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.
4. First Rise or Overnight Rest
Allow the rolls to rise for about 1-2 hours until they’ve doubled in size. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the dough overnight for a slow fermentation, which enhances the flavor.
Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Make sure the tops are slightly firm to the touch but soft in the center.
- Tip: For gooey rolls, bake for the lower end of the time range. If you prefer a firmer roll, bake closer to 30 minutes.
Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
For those who enjoy a little extra sweetness, whip up a cream cheese frosting to spread over your freshly baked rolls:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Beat all the ingredients together until smooth and spread over the warm rolls for a decadent finish.
Variations of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
- Vegan: Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Add-ins: Try adding fresh fruit like apples, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
If you’re interested in creative pairings or other variations, you might want to explore recipes like creamy sweet coleslaw for more ideas.
Baking Tips and Troubleshooting
How to Achieve the Perfect Rise
For the best results, make sure your kitchen is warm enough for the dough to rise. If it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly, and your rolls might end up dense.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Under-proofing: If the dough doesn’t rise properly, the rolls will be heavy and tough. Ensure enough time for the first rise.
- Over-baking: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake. Over-baking will result in dry, hard rolls.
Storing and Reheating Cinnamon Rolls
To keep your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
Health Benefits of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
While these sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are undoubtedly indulgent, using sourdough discard adds some nutritional benefits. The fermentation process in sourdough helps break down gluten, making it easier to digest. This makes sourdough a better option for some people compared to regular bread.
If you’re interested in other healthy alternatives, check out this resource on gluten-free cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Cinnamon Rolls Without Sourdough Discard?
Yes! If you don’t have any sourdough discard on hand, you can still make cinnamon rolls using a standard yeast-based recipe.
How Long Can I Store Sourdough Discard?
Sourdough discard can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container.
Can I Freeze Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! After baking, let the rolls cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Why Didn’t My Rolls Rise Properly?
If your cinnamon rolls didn’t rise properly, it could be due to under-proofing, using old yeast, or a kitchen that’s too cold.
How Do I Keep My Cinnamon Rolls From Drying Out?
To prevent drying, make sure to cover the rolls with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking if they’re browning too quickly.
Conclusion
Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a perfect way to make use of leftover starter while baking up a delicious treat. The unique tang of the sourdough discard balances the sweet cinnamon filling, creating an irresistible flavor combination. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to be a hit!
Experiment with flavors, try out the variations, and enjoy the process of baking with less waste.