Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction in Alex Guarnaschelli’s Style:

If there’s one thing that can make a weekend extra special, it’s the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. And when you use sourdough discard in the dough? You get next-level flavor and texture—slightly tangy, ultra-soft, and perfectly chewy.

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a win-win—a delicious way to use up extra starter while making the fluffiest, most flavorful cinnamon rolls ever. The dough is buttery, slightly tangy, and melts in your mouth, while the cinnamon-sugar filling oozes into every swirl. Top it all off with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, and you’ve got a breakfast masterpiece.

So, whether you’re an experienced sourdough baker or just looking for a fun way to use discard, this recipe is easy, rewarding, and totally irresistible.

Recipe Resume in Todd Wilbur’s Style:

Take your cinnamon rolls to the next level with sourdough discard! These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with a rich cinnamon filling, balanced by the subtle tang of sourdough.

With an overnight option for an easy morning bake, these rolls are perfect for brunch, special occasions, or just because you need a warm, gooey cinnamon roll in your life. The cream cheese frosting is the ultimate finishing touch, making these rolls absolutely unforgettable!

Exciting Story:

The first time I made Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would the discard make them too sour? Would they rise as well as traditional cinnamon rolls? But when I pulled them out of the oven—golden, pillowy, and swirled with cinnamon goodness—I knew I had discovered something magical.

The tanginess of the sourdough enhanced the sweetness of the filling, creating a depth of flavor that regular cinnamon rolls just can’t match. Now, this is my go-to recipe for special breakfasts, and trust me—one bite, and you’ll be hooked too!

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

🍞✨ Soft, Sweet & Buttery Perfection!

✔ Uses sourdough discard—no waste!
✔ Super fluffy & rich with deep, complex flavor.
✔ Perfectly balanced between sweet, tangy, and buttery.
✔ Easy overnight option for a no-stress morning bake.
✔ Topped with an irresistible cream cheese frosting.

Cuisine: Classic Baking / Sourdough Recipes

Overnight Option

✔ Make ahead: Follow steps 1-9, then cover and refrigerate overnight.
✔ Next morning: Let rolls come to room temp (about 30-45 minutes) before baking as usual.

Tips for the Best Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

✔ Use warm (not hot) milk – If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast!
✔ Knead well for fluffy rolls – The dough should be soft and smooth.
✔ Let them rise fully – Patience = softer, fluffier cinnamon rolls.
✔ Bake until just golden – Overbaking makes them dry!
✔ Frost while warm – So the frosting melts into the swirls for ultimate gooeyness.

Substitutions and Variations

🔹 Dairy-Free? – Use almond milk & vegan butter.
🔹 Make it extra gooey – Add a drizzle of heavy cream over the rolls before baking.
🔹 Add nuts or raisins – For a twist, mix in chopped pecans or raisins with the filling.
🔹 Swap the frosting – Try maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting.

Make a Healthier Version

✅ Use whole wheat flour – Swap half the flour for whole wheat for extra fiber.
✅ Reduce sugar – Cut back by ¼ cup without losing sweetness.
✅ Use coconut sugar – A natural sweetener that works great in the filling!

Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style:

And there you have it—Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls that are soft, buttery, and packed with cinnamon-sugar goodness! With just a touch of sourdough tang, these rolls are next-level delicious and perfect for any occasion.

Whether you make them for brunch, holidays, or just because you’re craving cinnamon rolls, they’ll vanish in minutes!

Relevant Categories:

Sourdough Recipes
Breakfast & Brunch
Classic Baked Goods
Make-Ahead Recipes