Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking for a melt-in-your-mouth breakfast or dessert, look no further than these sourdough cinnamon rolls! Made with a tangy active sourdough starter, these rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with warm, comforting cinnamon flavor. The rich cinnamon-sugar filling is topped with a creamy, indulgent frosting, making each bite irresistible.

Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunch, or any time you want a delicious homemade treat, these cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to start the day. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is a great way to elevate your baking game. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this easy sourdough cinnamon roll recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 125 grams active sourdough starter (approximately 2/3 cup)
• 130 grams milk, room temperature (½ cup + 1 Tbsp)
• 170 grams unsalted butter (1 ½ sticks), melted and cooled
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 500 grams all-purpose or bread flour (4 cups)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp fine sea salt

For the Filling:

• 85 grams unsalted butter (6 tbsp), softened, plus more to grease the pan
• 142 grams packed light brown sugar (2/3 cup)
• 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Frosting:

• 56 grams unsalted butter (4 tbsp), softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 120 grams powdered sugar (1 cup confectioners sugar)
• Pinch of fine sea salt

---

Instructions

How to Make the Sourdough Dough:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the active sourdough starter and milk until smooth. Add the melted butter, vanilla, eggs, sugar, and salt, whisking until fully incorporated.
2. Add Flour and Knead: Using the dough hook attachment, gradually add the flour while mixing on low speed. Once all the flour is incorporated, increase the speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and no longer sticks to the bowl. The dough should feel soft and moist, but not sticky to the touch. Alternatively, knead by hand for 6-8 minutes.
3. Rest and Refrigerate the Dough: Transfer the dough to a clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for 2 hours. Afterward, refrigerate the dough overnight (8-12 hours).

Filling and Rolling the Cinnamon Rolls:

4. Roll Out the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator 1-2 hours before rolling. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 17×10-inch rectangle. Butter a 9×13-inch metal baking dish.
5. Spread Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Spread 6 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then generously sprinkle it over the buttered dough.
6. Cut and Roll: Slice the dough into 12 strips using a pizza cutter. Roll each strip tightly and pinch the edges to seal. Place the rolls in the buttered baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced. If desired, cover and refrigerate overnight (up to 12 hours) before the second proofing.
7. Second Proofing: Cover the rolls with a damp kitchen towel and let them proof in a warm room for 2-3 hours or until visibly puffed. If your kitchen is cooler, place the dish in the oven with the light on (80-90°F) to speed up proofing. Be sure to remove the dish before preheating the oven.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F when the rolls are almost done proofing. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the rolls are golden at the edges and the center reaches 190-200°F on an instant-read thermometer. Avoid overbaking to prevent dry rolls.

How to Make the Cinnamon Roll Frosting:

9. Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low speed to incorporate the sugar, then increase to high speed and continue to beat for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and whipped.
10. Frost the Rolls: Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes. Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly. Serve immediately and enjoy!

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sourdough cinnamon rolls combine the tangy flavor of sourdough with the comforting, sweet taste of cinnamon sugar. The soft, fluffy texture, combined with the creamy, rich frosting, creates the ultimate indulgent treat. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this recipe takes your cinnamon rolls to the next level with a homemade, sourdough twist.

Tips

• Don’t rush the proofing: The long resting time for the dough helps develop the flavor, so be sure to allow the dough to ferment overnight for the best results.
• Temperature matters: Make sure the dough is at room temperature when rolling it out to ensure a smooth and easy process.
• Soft butter for the filling: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted when spreading over the dough for a better texture and easier spreading.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Add nuts: For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon sugar filling.
• Spice it up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the dough?
  Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first proofing. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out and continuing the recipe.
• How long can I store the rolls?
  Freshly baked cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
• Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
  Yes, the frosting can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply let it soften slightly at room temperature before spreading it on the rolls.

Serving

Serve these cinnamon rolls warm for the best experience, with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or your favorite breakfast beverage. They’re perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or anytime you crave a sweet treat.

Suggestions

• Top with extra toppings: For an extra indulgent treat, sprinkle the frosting with a little extra cinnamon or drizzle some caramel sauce on top.
• Make a cinnamon roll casserole: If you’re feeding a crowd, arrange the unbaked rolls in a casserole dish and bake together for an easy cinnamon roll casserole!