Indulging in warm, fragrant cinnamon rolls is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy roll, perfectly spiced and topped with a sweet glaze. These Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are that delightful treat, combining the tangy notes of sourdough with the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon and sugar. Not only do they satisfy your sweet cravings, but they also serve as a fantastic way to use up your sourdough discard—turning what could be waste into a beloved family treat!
Did you know that rolls have been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries? Whether baked at family gatherings or during special celebrations, these treats bring people together. This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned kitchen pros alike. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it rivals the more traditional cinnamon roll recipes you often find. So, let’s dive in and bring the family together over these deliciously fluffy creations!
What are Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?
You might be asking yourself, “Why such a long name for a humble cinnamon roll?” Well, it’s because these rolls deserve every word! The term “sourdough discard” may sound fancy, but it simply refers to that excess sourdough starter we often have lying around. Throwing it away feels like sending your culinary dreams to the trash can, right? Instead, we transform it into fluffy, warm goodness! And as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and what better way to achieve that than with these charming rolls?
Whether you’re cozying up at home during winter evenings or just looking to impress family and friends, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to steal the show. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love These Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Let’s talk about why these Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are irresistible! For one, they are the perfect match for a leisurely breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack, providing that decadent, soft texture that melts in your mouth while your palate revels in the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar. Imagine enjoying one with a steaming cup of tea or coffee—pure bliss!
Moreover, making these rolls at home saves you money while creating a warm, loving atmosphere in your kitchen. You’ll find that the cost of making these rolls is far less than store-bought alternatives, allowing you to enjoy this delectable treat without breaking the bank. Are you a fan of sticky cinnamon rolls? These babies can be dressed up with delightful toppings—perhaps some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor! They’re like your favorite adventure novel: with each page (or bite) you discover something new. Try them, and you might never go back to regular cinnamon rolls again!
How to Make Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Making these Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls is a breeze! The combination of the ambient smells, flavors, and the satisfaction of watching dough rise is wonderfully rewarding. You’ll be amazed at how simply delightful they are to make. All you need is about 2 hours of your time, including resting and baking. You’ll find yourself captivated by their pillowy texture and sweet flavor!
Key Ingredients for Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
To create these delightful rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- For the dough:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup milk (any non-dairy option works well too!)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- For the filling:
- 3 tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Make sure all your ingredients are measured and prepped for a smooth baking experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, milk, sugar, melted butter, and egg. Mix until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, combine cinnamon and brown sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
- Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick). Spread the softened butter on top, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mix.
- Roll it Up: Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal and cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Make the Glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla (if using) until smooth.
- Glaze the Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.
And voilà! You have stunning Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls ready to serve!
Top Tips for Perfecting Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Substitutions: If you’re out of butter, you can substitute it with coconut oil or a non-dairy alternative. For a healthier option, use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar in the filling.
- Rising Time: Don’t rush the rising process; this is where the rolls develop their signature fluffiness. Also, ensure your kitchen is warm enough—cold environments can affect the dough’s rise.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Don’t over-knead the dough; you want it soft and tender. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour, but keep it at a minimum to avoid dryness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, these rolls can be frozen for up to a month.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help retain their fluffy texture and sweet, gooey center.
Baking these Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls is not just about enjoying a delicious treat; it’s about creating beautiful memories with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get baking! You won’t regret it.

Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, milk, sugar, melted butter, and egg. Mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, combine cinnamon and brown sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick). Spread the softened butter on top, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mix.
- Starting from the long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal and cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla (if using) until smooth.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.

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