Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls: 12 Soft and Delicious Buns

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Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, offering a delightful blend of soft, fluffy dough and a rich buttery cinnamon filling. These treats are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, and they come out soft and delicious every time. With the dough rising slowly, you can expect the best texture, and the icing melts over every swirl for a cozy indulgence. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering rolls!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

There are countless reasons to adore these sourdough cinnamon rolls. First, they are incredibly soft and fluffy, making each bite a heavenly experience. Second, the combination of the sourdough starter with cinnamon creates a unique depth of flavor that is hard to resist. Third, the dough rises slowly, ensuring the best texture and flavor. Fourth, they are made with simple ingredients that you might already have at home, making them an easy choice for any baking enthusiast. Fifth, these rolls can be prepared overnight, offering convenience for busy mornings. Lastly, they are versatile; you can experiment with various fillings and toppings to create your own unique sourdough rolls with cinnamon.

Ingredients for Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Gather these items:

1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
1 cup whole milk (warmed to lukewarm)
1 large egg
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 to 3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

How to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add the warm milk, sugar, egg, and softened butter to a large mixing bowl and stir until smooth.
Step 2: Stir in the active sourdough starter until combined.
Step 3: Add the flour and salt and mix until a rough dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer until smooth and stretchy, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cover the bowl and let the dough rest at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours, or until doubled.
Step 6: Lightly flour your counter and turn out the risen dough.
Step 7: Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
Step 8: Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly across the surface.
Step 9: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter in a thick, even layer.
Step 10: Sprinkle the cinnamon over the sugar.
Step 11: Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
Step 12: Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or thread.
Step 13: Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 14: Cover the dish and let the rolls rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until puffy.
Step 15: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 16: Bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.
Step 17: Let the rolls cool slightly while preparing the icing.
Step 18: Add the cream cheese and butter to a bowl and blend until smooth.
Step 19: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla and mix again.
Step 20: Add the milk a little at a time until the icing reaches a pourable consistency.
Step 21: Spread the icing over the warm rolls and serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for best results.
Adjust the amount of milk in the icing for desired consistency.
For an even fluffier texture, let the dough rise longer.
Experiment with different fillings such as nuts or chocolate.

Best Ways to Serve Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

These delicious sourdough cinnamon rolls can be served warm, straight from the oven, or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert experience or serve with fresh fruit for a lighter option.

How to Store and Reheat Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

To store your rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This will ensure they remain soft and delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

What’s the secret to perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls?

The secret lies in the quality of your sourdough starter and the dough’s resting time. An active starter provides the necessary lift, while sufficient resting allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight in the fridge. In the morning, simply shape and bake your rolls.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls?

To avoid overworking the dough, knead just until smooth. Also, ensure proper rising times; under-proofing can lead to dense rolls, while over-proofing can cause them to collapse.

Variations of Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your sourdough cinnamon rolls! You can add unique flavors such as cardamom, nutmeg, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist. For a savory option, consider adding cheese and herbs. No matter how you choose to customize your rolls, each variation will bring a delightful twist to this classic recipe.

Freshly baked sourdough cinnamon rolls with icing

For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting or Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Recipe.

Serving suggestion for sourdough cinnamon rolls with coffee

For more tips on baking, you can refer to this sourdough baking guide.