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Irresistibly Fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Warm, fluffy cinnamon rolls made with sourdough discard and topped with a delicious glaze, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 240

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 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
Filling Ingredients
  • 3 tablespoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Glaze Ingredients
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Method
 

Dough Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, milk, sugar, melted butter, and egg. Mix until combined.
  2. 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.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
  1. 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.
Filling Preparation
  1. While the dough rises, combine cinnamon and brown sugar in a bowl. Set aside.
Rolling and Second Rise
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Baking
  1. While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Glazing
  1. While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla (if using) until smooth.
  2. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling with the glaze.

Notes

For substitutes, use coconut oil instead of butter, or coconut sugar for a healthier filling. Ensure to avoid common mistakes like over-kneading the dough and rushing the rising process.