Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Sourdough cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the sweet, spiced essence of cinnamon. They’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or dessert. By using sourdough, you add not only flavor but also a touch of natural fermentation that enhances the rolls’ texture. Plus, the cream cheese frosting gives these rolls an extra creamy finish, making every bite a delight.

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How to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

• 100 grams (1/3 cup) active sourdough starter
• 175 grams (3/4 cup) warm milk
• 30 grams (2 tablespoons) dark brown sugar (see notes)
• 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
• 120 grams (1/2 cup) heavy cream, warm (just before baking)
• 57 grams (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 150 grams (2/3 cup) dark brown sugar
• 12 grams (5 teaspoons) ground cinnamon
• 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

Directions

Pro-tip: For the best results, be sure to use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.

Find a sample baker’s schedule below.

Dough:

1. Add active starter, dark brown sugar, and warm milk to a stand mixer bowl with a paddle attachment. Ensure the milk isn’t boiling (no hotter than 120°F) to avoid killing the starter.
2. Mix on low speed until combined.
3. Add melted unsalted butter, salt, and the room temperature egg. Mix on low until fully combined.
4. Switch to a dough hook attachment. Gradually mix in flour, 70g (1/2 cup) at a time, until incorporated. Stop to scrape the bowl as needed. The dough should be tacky, not sticky, when poked.
5. Knead the dough for an additional 5 minutes on medium speed.
6. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, about 6-7 hours depending on room temperature.

Shape:
7. Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface. Roll it into a 16-inch by 12-inch rectangle.
8. Spread softened butter over the dough’s surface.
9. In a small bowl, mix dark brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
10. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on the dough.
11. Starting from the long end, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the ends off, then slice into 9 equal pieces using dental floss or a knife.
12. Grease a 9 x 9 baking dish or cast iron skillet and place the rolls inside, leaving space between them.
13. Cover with a damp towel and let them rise until puffy, about 3-4 hours.

Not planning to bake them the same day? Cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge overnight. Pull them out to rise at room temperature for 3-4 hours before baking.

Bake:
14. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour warmed heavy cream over the rolls just before baking for extra moisture.
15. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
16. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.

Cream Cheese Frosting:
17. While cooling, make the frosting by mixing unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth.
18. Add powdered sugar and heavy cream, mixing until well blended.
19. Spread the frosting over warm cinnamon rolls, letting it melt into the cracks.

How to Serve Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

These delightful rolls are best served warm. Slice them in half and enjoy them as they are, or drizzle with a bit of extra cream cheese frosting for a sweet treat. They pair perfectly with coffee or tea for breakfast or a charming dessert.

How to Store Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

To store leftover rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their freshness, though this might affect their softness. If you want, you can freeze them by wrapping each roll in plastic wrap, then foil, and storing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

• Ensure your sourdough starter is active for the best rise.
• Measure ingredients accurately for consistent results.
• Allow rolls to rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal results.
• If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour.

Variation

Feel free to add nuts or raisins to the cinnamon sugar filling for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, to change things up.

FAQs

What can I use if I don’t have sourdough starter?
You can use instant yeast instead, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

How long do these cinnamon rolls take to make?
The total time is around 10-12 hours, including rising time, but most of this is hands-off.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight for convenient baking in the morning.

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