There’s something magical about biting into a warm, gooey cinnamon roll, and when it’s a sourdough cinnamon roll, the experience is on a whole new level. These rolls are soft, rich, and topped with decadent cream cheese frosting—just the kind of treat that can turn an ordinary morning into something special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your sourdough starter recipe journey, this guide will help you bake the fluffiest, most delicious cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tasted.
Let’s dive into why sourdough cinnamon rolls have stolen the hearts (and stomachs) of breakfast lovers everywhere.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Soft and Fluffy Rolls with Cinnamon Layers
Think about the perfect cinnamon roll. It’s pillowy soft with ribbons of sweet cinnamon sugar butter nestled in every layer. This recipe using sourdough starter takes it to the next level by adding depth and complexity to the flavor. The fermentation process brings out a hint of tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Perfect for Holidays and Special Occasions
Whether it’s Christmas morning, a weekend brunch, or a cozy family breakfast, these cinnamon rolls are a showstopper. Best of all, much of the prep is done the night before, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen at the crack of dawn.
Long Fermentation Benefits for Digestibility
If you’ve ever felt uneasy after eating regular bread, you’ll appreciate the benefits of long-fermented dough. The sourdough fermentation process breaks down gluten, making these rolls easier on your stomach and friendlier for those with sensitivities.
Made with Wild Yeast for Authentic Flavor
Using an active sourdough starter recipe gives these rolls a unique character. Forget store-bought yeast—wild yeast adds depth and complexity you simply can’t replicate.
Tips for Making Fluffy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Preparing the Dough the Night Before
The key to light, fluffy rolls is allowing the dough to ferment overnight. Not only does this make the dough more digestible, but it also enhances the flavor. Plan ahead, and you’ll wake up to dough that’s ready to be rolled out.
Handling Active Sourdough Starter
Your dough starter should be fed 4–12 hours before you start baking. Look for a bubbly, happy starter—this is your ticket to perfectly risen rolls.
Adjusting Dough Consistency Based on Temperature
If your house is cold, coconut oil might solidify, making the dough stiff. A quick trick? Pop the dough in a barely warm oven for a few minutes to loosen things up.
Best Methods for Cutting Rolls
For picture-perfect rolls, use unflavored dental floss or thread to slice the dough. A knife tends to squish the delicate layers, but floss glides through effortlessly.
Substituting Einkorn Flour for All-Purpose
Want to experiment? Einkorn flour can be a great alternative to all-purpose flour, but it absorbs liquids differently. You’ll need to tweak the liquid or flour measurements slightly for the perfect consistency.
Ingredients for Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Dough Ingredients
Active Sourdough Starter
This is the heart of the recipe. A lively sourdough starter recipe will ensure your rolls rise beautifully and taste incredible.
Flour and Liquid Ratio
Use unbleached all-purpose flour or freshly milled hard wheat for the best results. Pair it with water to create the perfect dough consistency.
Natural Sweeteners and Fats
Honey and coconut oil bring subtle sweetness and richness to the dough, enhancing the flavor without overpowering it.
Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Butter Consistency for Even Spreading
Your butter should be soft but not melted. If it’s too firm, spreading it evenly becomes a challenge.
Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Options
Stick with classic cinnamon or mix it up with a pumpkin spice blend for a seasonal twist.
Cream Cheese Topping
Balancing Sweetness and Tang
Combine cream cheese, heavy cream, and a touch of maple syrup or honey for a frosting that’s silky and not overly sweet.
Tools You May Need for Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Essential Baking Equipment
- A stand mixer with a dough hook
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A rolling pin
Optional Tools for Enhanced Results
- Kitchen scale for precision
- Immersion blender for the smoothest frosting
- Cast-iron skillet for even baking
How to Make the Easiest Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls from Scratch
Step 1: Preparing the Dough and Testing Gluten Development
Mix sourdough starter, water, flour, honey, eggs, and melted coconut oil in a stand mixer. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Use the windowpane test: if you can stretch the dough thin enough to see light through it, it’s ready.
Step 2: Overnight Fermentation for Enhanced Flavor
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it tightly, and let it ferment overnight. The long fermentation builds flavor and makes the dough more pliable.
Step 3: Incorporating Final Dough Ingredients
The next morning, knead in baking soda, baking powder, and salt for a little extra lift.
Step 4: Making the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a smooth paste.
Step 5: Rolling, Filling, and Shaping the Rolls
Roll out the dough, spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly, and tightly roll it up. Slice into 12 even rolls.
Step 6: Baking the Rolls to Perfection
Arrange the rolls in a greased dish and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting for Cinnamon Rolls
Combining Ingredients for a Smooth Texture
In a saucepan, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and vanilla. Heat gently and stir until smooth.
Pouring and Spreading Frosting Evenly
Pour the warm frosting over the rolls and let it ooze into every nook and cranny.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Storing Unfrosted Rolls at Room Temperature
Keep unfrosted rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing Cinnamon Rolls for Later Use
Freeze baked rolls (unfrosted) or the shaped, unbaked rolls. Thaw and bake as needed.
Preparing Rolls Ahead for Easy Morning Baking
Shape the rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning after letting them rise at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Freeze Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes, freeze unfrosted rolls and reheat as needed.
Do I Have to Ferment These Overnight?
While overnight fermentation yields the best flavor, you can skip it if you’re short on time.
Can Cinnamon Roll Dough Rise Too Long?
Yes, overproofed dough can collapse and lose its shape.
What Type of Baking Dish Works Best?
A cast-iron skillet or a glass baking dish is ideal for even heat distribution.
Baker’s Schedule for Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Day Before
- Feed your sourdough starter recipe.
- Prepare the dough and let it ferment overnight.
Baking Day
- Add final ingredients, roll out dough, shape rolls, and bake.
Related Recipes to Try
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour or freshly milled hard wheat flour
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Combine sourdough starter, water, flour, honey, eggs, and melted coconut oil in a stand mixer.
- Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Use the windowpane test to ensure gluten development.
- Step 2: Overnight Fermentation
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it tightly.
- Allow the dough to ferment at room temperature for 8–12 hours (overnight).
- Step 3: Add Final Ingredients
- In the morning, knead in 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Step 5: Shape the Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 12x18 inches).
- Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly and cut into 12 even pieces using unflavored dental floss or a sharp knife.
- Step 6: Bake the Rolls
- Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Let the rolls rise for 30–60 minutes if they feel slightly stiff.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a small saucepan, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, maple syrup, and vanilla.
- Heat gently and stir until smooth.
- Pour the frosting over warm rolls and spread evenly.
Notes
- Active Sourdough Starter: Feed your starter 4–12 hours before baking for best results.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Shape rolls the night before and refrigerate. Bake in the morning after letting them come to room temperature.
- Storage: Unfrosted rolls can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Making sourdough cinnamon rolls is more than baking—it’s an experience. From the slow fermentation to the irresistible cream cheese frosting, every step is worth the effort. So grab your dough starter and start baking! Your taste buds will thank you.
