If you’ve ever wondered what to do with the sourdough discard you’ve been throwing away, you’re in for a treat—literally. These sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a simple, waste-free way to turn your leftovers into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Whether you’re new to baking or just looking for an easy way to impress family and friends, this recipe is your answer.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know, from the benefits of using sourdough discard to step-by-step instructions for creating soft, gooey cinnamon rolls that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why Use Sourdough Discard in Baking?
A Sustainable Choice
Every time you feed your sourdough starter, you’re left with a portion of discard. Instead of tossing it out, why not give it a second life? Using sourdough discard in recipes like these cinnamon rolls not only reduces waste but also allows you to enjoy the fruits of your starter without the long fermentation process.
Flavor and Texture Benefits
Sourdough discard adds a slight tang to your baked goods, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the cinnamon and sugar. It also enhances the dough’s texture, making it tender and chewy.
If you’ve been hesitant to try baking with sourdough because it seems complicated, this recipe simplifies the process, ensuring you can achieve bakery-quality results at home.
Ingredients for Easy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious rolls:
Dough Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sourdough discard | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Milk (warm) | ¾ cup |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | 4 tbsp |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Instant yeast | 1 tsp |
Filling Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tbsp |
| Unsalted butter (soft) | 4 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Beginners
1. Preparing the Dough
Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the sourdough discard, melted butter, and salt.
Add the Flour: Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Knead for 8–10 minutes, either by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Assembling the Rolls
Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle.
Apply the Filling: Smoothly coat the surface of the dough with softened butter.Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture on top, ensuring full coverage.
Roll and Slice: Starting from the longer side, roll the dough tightly into a log.Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 11,5 equal pieces.
3. Baking the Rolls
Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring a small gap between each for room to expand.Cover and let them rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fragrant.
Optional Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the warm rolls.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls Every Time
Choosing the Right Discard
Not all sourdough discard is created equal. For the best results:
- Use fresh discard that’s no older than a week.
- Avoid discard with an overly sour smell or dark liquid (hooch) on top.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dough too sticky? Gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. Rolls too dense? Make sure the yeast is fresh and allow adequate rising time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make sourdough discard cinnamon rolls without yeast?
A: Yes! While yeast adds fluffiness, you can substitute it with baking powder. However, the rolls may have a denser texture.
Q: How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
A: Store your rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a freshly baked feel.
Q: What exactly is sourdough discard?
A: Sourdough discard is the portion of starter removed during feeding. It’s perfectly usable in recipes like these cinnamon rolls, pancakes, and more.
Conclusion: From Sourdough Discard to Sweet Delight
Now that you know how to turn sourdough discard into easy cinnamon rolls, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking. This recipe is designed for beginners, with simple steps and common ingredients, ensuring you can whip up a batch without stress.
Whether you’re serving these rolls for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, one thing is guaranteed—they’ll disappear fast! So why wait? Start making memories (and rolls) today.