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The Best Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 218 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Deliciously tangy and sweet sourdough cinnamon rolls that bring comfort and warmth to any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 100 g active sourdough starter
  • 200 g warm milk (or non-dairy milk)
  • 150 g bread flour (or all-purpose for a softer texture)
  • 50 g sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 8 g salt
  • 40 g melted unsalted butter
  • 100 g softened butter (for filling)
  • 150 g brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
  • Pinch of cardamom (optional)
  • Turbinado sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sponge: In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, warm milk, and bread flour. Mix until sticky, cover, and let sit for 2–4 hours until bubbly.
  2. Make the dough: Add sugar, egg, salt, and melted butter to the sponge. Gradually incorporate more flour until a smooth dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes by hand or 4–5 minutes with a mixer.
  3. Bulk fermentation: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 3–5 hours, performing stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes. Optionally, refrigerate overnight.
  4. Prepare the filling: Soften butter and mix with brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add vanilla or cardamom if desired.
  5. Roll and fill: Roll dough into a rectangle, spread filling, and roll tightly from the long edge. Cut into 12 rolls and place in greased pan.
  6. Proof: Let rolls proof at room temperature until puffy (1.5–3 hours); refrigerate overnight if desired.
  7. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), brush rolls, and bake for 22–28 minutes until golden. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  8. Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla, then drizzle over warm rolls.

Notes

Use a bench scraper for cleaner cuts. Refrigerate leftovers for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 28 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: sourdough, cinnamon rolls, breakfast, baking, comfort food