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Deliciously fluffy sourdough discard cinnamon rolls topped with creamy icing

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, tangy, and gooey, these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a cozy breakfast or dessert that turns leftover sourdough discard into a delicious treat.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sourdough discard
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 egg Room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Filling

  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened For spreading

Frosting

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Mix the dough

  • In a large bowl, combine flour, sourdough discard, sugar, milk, melted butter, egg, instant yeast, and salt until a rough dough forms.

Knead and rest

  • Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth, then place in a lightly oiled bowl and let rise in a warm spot for 30 minutes.

Roll and fill

  • Roll the dough into a large rectangle, spread softened butter, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.

Shape the rolls

  • Roll the dough into a tight log, slice into even rolls, and place them in a greased baking pan.

Final rise and bake

  • Let rolls rise for another 20 minutes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.

Make frosting

  • While rolls are warm, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then spread over warm rolls before serving.

Notes

For a different presentation, adapt shapes and sizes similar to a sweet focaccia. Room temperature ingredients help the dough come together and rise evenly. If your discard is particularly sour, reduce sit time before serving to balance flavor.
Keyword breakfast, Cinnamon Rolls, dessert, Leftover Discard, sourdough