Heavenly Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls (Fluffy & Irresistible!)

There’s something magical about the aroma of fresh cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen.

I still remember the first time I tried to make these delightful treats. It was a chilly Sunday morning, and I woke up to find my sourdough starter bubbling away, just waiting to be turned into something delicious.

I took the plunge, and to my delight, the result was a batch of fluffy, gooey cinnamon rolls that made my kitchen feel like a warm hug.

Since then, every few weeks, I find myself revisiting this recipe, making it a cozy ritual. My family now looks forward to those lazy mornings filled with laughter, flour-covered aprons, and of course, the sweet taste of homemade goodness.

If you’re ready to bring that warmth into your kitchen, let’s dive into how you can create these scrumptious sourdough cinnamon rolls!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy-to-follow instructions that anyone can master.
• Using sourdough adds a depth of flavor that ordinary rolls can’t match.
• Great for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime.
• Can be made ahead and baked fresh when you’re ready!

Ingredients & Substitutions

For the dough:

• 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter (make sure it’s bubbly and fed)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives work)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened (adds richness)
• 1 large egg (or flaxseed egg for a vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds depth of flavor)
• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour (bread flour also works for texture)
• 1 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)

For the filling:

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (a must for the warm spice)
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar (use half light brown and half dark brown for complexity)
• 1-2 tablespoons softened butter (helps bind the filling and adds richness)
• Pinch of salt (balances the sweetness)

For baking:

• Additional softened butter (for greasing and spreading on the dough)

For frosting:

• Your favorite icing (cream cheese frosting or a simple powdered sugar glaze)

Prep & Cook Time

Activity	Time
Prep Time	20 minutes
Rest Time	2-3 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor)
Bake Time	25-30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, milk, sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
2. Add flour and salt: Gradually mix in the flour and salt, forming a soft dough. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First rise: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the ground cinnamon, brown sugar, softened butter, and a pinch of salt. The butter will help hold the filling together, and the mix of brown sugars will create a deeper flavor.
5. Roll out the dough: On a well-floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. The thickness ensures fluffy rolls.
6. Assemble the rolls: Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the rolled-out dough. Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
7. Shape the rolls: Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut it into 12 equal pieces to create portion-sized rolls.
8. Second rise: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for 1-2 hours (or until they have puffed up nicely). This second rise will make them extra fluffy.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown with slightly crisp tops and soft interiors.
10. Cool and frost: Let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling with your favorite icing. If you prefer a cream cheese frosting, it will complement the rolls perfectly with a tangy contrast. Alternatively, a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla will work beautifully too.

Expert Tips for the Best Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

• Use cold butter: For a more textured filling, try incorporating cold butter when spreading on the dough.
• Overnight rise: For a more developed flavor, let the assembled rolls rise overnight in the fridge, baking them fresh in the morning.
• Watch the baking time: Since ovens can vary, check your rolls a few minutes early to prevent over-baking.
• Add nuts or dried fruit: Consider folding in walnuts, pecans, or raisins into the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount per Roll
Calories	250
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	180mg
Total Carbohydrates	36g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	10g
Protein	4g

FAQs About Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results, ensuring happy gluten-free eaters.

How should I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they cook through.

How do I reheat the rolls?
Microwave for 10-15 minutes.