Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Fluffy, Sweet, and Irresistible

There’s nothing like the aroma of freshly baked sourdough cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and filled with a perfectly spiced cinnamon-sugar mixture that complements the tangy notes of the sourdough. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe will help you create a show-stopping treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

With the addition of sourdough starter, these cinnamon rolls have a depth of flavor that sets them apart from the classic version. Plus, the fermentation process makes them easier to digest and enhances the texture. Ready to start baking? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

This recipe is a must-try for so many reasons:

• Fluffy and Tender Texture: The sourdough starter helps create an airy and pillowy dough.
• Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The sourdough’s tang perfectly balances the rich, sweet filling.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance, so you can enjoy fresh rolls in the morning.
• Health Benefits: The natural fermentation process can make the rolls easier to digest.

Whether you’re a fan of classic cinnamon rolls or looking for a new twist, these sourdough cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to impress.

How to Make Sourdough Starter for Cinnamon Rolls

If you don’t have a sourdough starter, don’t worry—it’s easy to make one at home. All you need is flour, water, and a little patience!

Ingredients

• Flour: All-purpose or whole wheat flour works best.
• Water: Use filtered or dechlorinated water for optimal results.

Steps to Create a Sourdough Starter

1. Day 1: In a clean jar, mix ½ cup flour and ½ cup water. Stir well, cover loosely, and leave at room temperature.
2. Day 2: Check for bubbles. If none appear, discard half the mixture and feed it with ½ cup flour and ½ cup water.
3. Days 3–7: Repeat the feeding process daily. By Day 7, your starter should double in size after feeding and develop a tangy smell.

Once your starter is active, you’re ready to bake sourdough cinnamon rolls!

Ingredients for the Best Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

To make these delicious sourdough cinnamon rolls, you’ll need a combination of basic pantry staples and your active sourdough starter. For the :

Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup active sourdough starter
• ¾ cup whole milk, warm
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp salt

Filling:

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ons:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Raisins for a chewy and sweet twist.
• Cream cheese frosting instead of the glaze for a tangier topping.

How to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create soft, fluffy sourdough cinnamon rolls:

1. Prepare the Dough

• In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, warm milk, and sugar until combined.
• Add the eggs, butter, salt, and flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

2. Let the Dough Rise

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until it doubles in size. For an overnight option, refrigerate the dough for 8–12 hours and bring it to room temperature before proceeding.

3. Roll Out the Dough

• Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.

4. Add the Filling

• Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the buttered surface.

5. Roll and Slice

• Tightly roll the dough into a log, beginning at one long edge.
• Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

6. Proof the Rolls

• Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for 2–3 hours, or until puffy and almost doubled in size.

7. Bake the Rolls

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

8. Add the Glaze

• While the rolls are still warm, drizzle the glaze over them. Serve fresh and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Making sourdough cinnamon rolls can be a rewarding process, especially when you follow these tips to ensure they turn out soft, fluffy, and flavorful:

1. Use an Active Sourdough Starter

• Before using your sourdough starter, make sure it is active and bubbly. Feed your starter 4–6 hours before beginning the recipe for the best results.

2. Be Patient with the Rise

• Sourdough dough rises more slowly than dough with commercial yeast. Allow plenty of time for the dough to double in size. Overnight proofing in the refrigerator is a great option to save time in the morning.

3. Roll the Dough Evenly

• Roll the dough to an even thickness to ensure all the rolls bake uniformly. Use a rolling pin and measure the dimensions for consistency.

4. Prevent a Sticky Dough

• If the dough is sticky while kneading, sprinkle a small amount of flour on your surface, but avoid over-flouring, as it can make the rolls dense.

5. Make Clean Slices

• Use unflavored dental floss or a very sharp knife to cut the rolls cleanly without squishing the dough.

6. Don’t Overbake

• Bake the rolls until they’re golden brown on top but still soft inside. Overbaking can dry them out.

7. Customize the Filling and Toppings

• Add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for extra flavor. For the glaze, adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner drizzle or powdered sugar for a thicker frosting.

Variations of the Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Sourdough cinnamon rolls are a classic, but you can make them even more exciting by experimenting with these creative variations:

1. Cream Cheese Frosting Cinnamon Rolls

• Swap the traditional glaze with a rich cream cheese frosting.
• Mix softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of milk for a tangy and creamy topping.

2. Nutty Sourdough Rolls

• For a delightful crunch, mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon-sugar filling.
• Sprinkle extra nuts on top of the glaze for a beautiful finish.

3. Chocolate Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

• Replace part of the brown sugar in the filling with cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist.
• Add chocolate chips to the filling for gooey, melted chocolate in every bite.

4. Apple Cinnamon Sourdough Rolls

• Add finely chopped apples to the filling for a fruity, autumn-inspired flavor.
• Sprinkle the rolls with a touch of nutmeg or allspice for a cozy touch.

5. Vegan Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

• Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and flaxseed as an egg substitute for a vegan-friendly version.
• Top with a glaze made from powdered sugar and coconut milk.

6. Caramel Pecan Sourdough Rolls

• Drizzle caramel sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with toasted pecans.
• Serve warm for an indulgent dessert option.

7. Berry Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

• Add a layer of berry compote (strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry) before spreading the cinnamon sugar mixture.
• Top with a light powdered sugar glaze.

Serving Ideas for Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Sourdough cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving style with these ideas:

1. Classic Breakfast Spread

• Serve the rolls warm with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and a cup of coffee or tea.

2. Brunch Platter

• Pair the cinnamon rolls with a side of Greek yogurt and granola, plus fresh orange juice or a smoothie.

3. Dessert Delight

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for a decadent dessert.

4. Afternoon Tea Treat

• Serve the rolls alongside a pot of herbal tea or spiced chai for a cozy snack.

5. Holiday Presentation

• Decorate the rolls with festive sprinkles or drizzle with colored icing for a holiday-themed breakfast or dessert.

FAQs About Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Why are my sourdough cinnamon rolls not fluffy?

If your rolls turn out dense instead of fluffy, it could be due to:

• Underproofing: The dough didn’t rise long enough. Sourdough rises slower than yeast-based dough, so be patient and allow it to double in size.
• Overproofing: Letting the dough rise too long can weaken its structure, causing it to collapse during baking.
• Incorrect Measurements: Make sure your flour-to-liquid ratio is accurate; too much flour can make the dough stiff.

What not to do with sourdough?

To ensure the best results when working with sourdough, avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t Use an Inactive Starter: Always feed your starter and wait for it to become bubbly and active before use.
• Don’t Skip Measuring: Sourdough baking requires precise ingredient ratios for consistent results.
• Don’t Rush the Process: Sourdough dough needs adequate time to ferment and proof for proper flavor and texture.

Why is homemade sourdough healthier?

Homemade sourdough is considered healthier for several reasons:

• Improved Digestion: The fermentation process breaks down gluten and phytic acid, making it easier to digest.
• Natural Ingredients: Store-bought bread often contains preservatives and additives, while homemade sourdough uses simple ingredients.
• Nutrient Availability: Fermentation increases the availability of nutrients like B vitamins and minerals.

Why put heavy cream on cinnamon rolls before baking?

Pouring heavy cream over cinnamon rolls before baking is a popular hack that enhances their flavor and texture:

• Keeps Rolls Moist: The cream soaks into the dough, preventing the rolls from drying out in the oven.
• Creates a Gooey Texture: The cream combines with the filling as it bakes, resulting in extra gooey, soft cinnamon rolls.
• Adds Richness: The added fat and flavor make the rolls taste more indulgent and luxurious.

Conclusion

Sourdough cinnamon rolls are a perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and buttery flavors that make them a standout treat for any occasion. From the fluffy texture to the gooey cinnamon filling and the rich glaze or frosting on top, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of sourdough lies in its versatility—you can customize these rolls with unique toppings, fillings, and variations to suit your preferences. Plus, the natural fermentation process makes them not only delicious but also easier to digest and healthier than traditional recipes.

Now it’s your turn to bring these irresistible sourdough cinnamon rolls to life. Follow the steps, experiment with the variations, and enjoy the rewarding process of sourdough baking. Don’t forget to share your results with friends and family—they’re sure to be impressed!