Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a delightful treat that brings warm, comforting flavors right to your kitchen. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any special occasion. The unique sourdough flavor combined with rich cinnamon and sweet dough makes them irresistible. You’ll love the soft texture and gooey cinnamon filling that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sourdough and cinnamon creates a uniquely tasty treat.
• Easy to Follow: Step-by-step instructions ensure that bakers of all levels can succeed.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for weekend breakfasts, holiday gatherings, or a sweet afternoon snack.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making these delightful rolls from scratch.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance for a quick bake whenever you’re ready.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls, gather the essential tools to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish or cast iron skillet
• Rubber spatula
• Offset spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing and kneading the dough effortless while ensuring consistent results.
• Rolling pin: Helps you easily shape the dough into the perfect rectangle for filling.
• Baking dish or cast iron skillet: Provides even baking and keeps the rolls fluffy and moist.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 100 grams (1/3 cup) active sourdough starter
• 175 grams (3/4 cup) warm milk
• 30 grams (2 Tablespoon) dark brown sugar
• 57 grams (4 Tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
• 5 grams (3/4 teaspoon) salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 370 grams (2 1/2 cups + 2 Tablespoons) bread flour

For Topping Before Baking

• 120 grams (1/2 cup) heavy cream, warm

For Filling

• 57 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 150 grams (2/3 cup) dark brown sugar
• 12 grams (5 teaspoons) ground cinnamon

For Cream Cheese Frosting

• 28 grams (2 Tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 55 grams (2 ounces) cream cheese, room temperature
• 15 grams (1 Tablespoon) heavy cream
• 90 grams (3/4 cup) powdered sugar

How to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Add active sourdough starter, dark brown sugar, and warm milk to a stand mixer bowl fitted with a paddle attachment.
2. Mix on low speed until well combined.
3. Add melted unsalted butter, salt, and the large egg. Mix on low until fully integrated.
4. Switch to a dough hook attachment. Gradually add flour in increments of 70g while mixing on medium speed until incorporated.
5. Knead for an additional 5 minutes until smooth.

Step 2: First Rise

1. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
2. Let it rest in a warm spot until doubled in size; this typically takes about 6-7 hours depending on kitchen temperature.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

1. Once risen, transfer dough to a floured surface and roll it into a 16-inch by 12-inch rectangle.
2. Spread softened butter over the entire surface of the rectangle.
3. In a small bowl, mix dark brown sugar with ground cinnamon and sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
4. Roll up starting from one long end to form a tight log; cut into 9 equal pieces.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Place rolls in a greased baking dish or skillet about ½ – 1 inch apart.
2. Cover with a damp towel and allow them to rise again for about 3-4 hours until puffy.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Just before baking, pour warmed heavy cream over the rolls.
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter with room-temperature cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream; blend well.

Step 7: Frosting

1. Once cooled slightly, spread cream cheese frosting over warm cinnamon rolls allowing it to melt into every crevice.
   Enjoy your delicious homemade Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls!

How to Serve Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Serving Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls is all about enhancing their deliciousness and making the experience enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement your freshly baked rolls.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pairing with a hot cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors and makes for a comforting morning ritual.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Adding a drizzle of maple syrup provides extra sweetness and a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.

Topped with Fresh Fruits

• Serve alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds an airy texture and balances the richness of the cinnamon rolls beautifully.

As a Dessert

• These cinnamon rolls can be served warm as a delightful dessert after dinner, especially when topped with cream cheese frosting.

How to Perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

To achieve the perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls, follow these helpful tips that will make your baking experience seamless and successful.

• Use Fresh Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for optimal rise and flavor in your rolls.

• Check Dough Consistency: The dough should be tacky but not sticky. Adjust flour if necessary during mixing to achieve the right texture.

• Control Temperature: Keep your kitchen warm during rising times. If it’s cold, consider using an oven light to create a cozy environment for fermentation.

• Don’t Rush the Rises: Allow enough time for both rises; this enhances flavor development and ensures fluffy rolls.

• Warm Cream Before Baking: Pour warm heavy cream over the rolls right before baking. This keeps them moist and soft throughout the baking process.

• Cool Before Frosting: Let your cinnamon rolls cool slightly before adding frosting so it melts just right into all the crevices without sliding off.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are delightful on their own but pairing them with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that complements the sweet rolls beautifully.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy contrast that pairs well with cinnamon flavors.

3. Savory Quiche
   The rich flavors of quiche offer a nice balance to the sweetness of cinnamon rolls, making it great for brunch.

4. Crispy Bacon or Turkey Bacon
   A side of crispy bacon provides a savory element that contrasts nicely with sweet cinnamon rolls.

5. Smoothie Bowl
   A nutrient-packed smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can provide a healthy balance to your meal.

6. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs serve as a protein-rich side that complements the sweetness of the rolls perfectly.

7. Chia Pudding
   This creamy dessert adds another layer of texture while being nutritious and visually appealing on the plate.

8. Coffee Cake
   For an indulgent brunch, serve alongside coffee cake for an extra sweet treat that guests will love!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final product.

• Incorrect Starter Usage: Using a sourdough starter that isn’t active can lead to dense rolls. Always ensure your starter is bubbly and has been fed recently.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough rolls. Once the ingredients are combined and the dough is pulling away from the bowl, stop mixing.
• Inaccurate Measurements: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin the dough’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Skipping Rising Times: Rushing through the rising times may result in underdeveloped flavors and textures. Be patient and let your dough rise until it doubles in size.
• Not Preheating Oven: Baking without preheating can affect how evenly your rolls bake. Always preheat your oven before placing your cinnamon rolls inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Wrap each roll tightly with plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat rolls for about 10-15 minutes wrapped in foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds on medium power. Cover with a damp paper towel for best results.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water to create steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

You can tell if your sourdough starter is active if it has doubled in size within 4-6 hours after feeding and has bubbles on the surface.

Can I make this Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute non-dairy milk for the milk, use plant-based butter, and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?

If your dough isn’t rising, check that your starter is active. Also, ensure that you are letting it rise in a warm environment, as cooler temperatures may slow fermentation.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to shaping stage and refrigerate overnight. Allow them extra time to rise before baking.

What toppings can I add to my cinnamon rolls?

Feel free to customize with nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips mixed into the filling for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

These Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are not only delightful but also versatile. They’re perfect for breakfast or dessert and can be customized with various fillings or toppings. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; you’ll love how they turn out!