30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

this RECIPE

Introduction to 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Let’s be honest—sometimes we just need a little sweetness in our hectic lives. That’s where these 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls come in. They’re a delightful treat, perfect for busy mornings or a cozy weekend brunch. Using sourdough discard not only helps reduce waste but also creates that fluffy, moist texture we all adore. Plus, you can whip them up in no time! Just imagine pulling a tray of golden-brown cinnamon rolls from the oven, the warm, cinnamon aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s pure comfort, and a recipe I can’t wait to share with you!

Why You’ll Love This 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

These cinnamon rolls are a game changer for anyone pressed for time but craving something special. In just half an hour, you can create a beloved family dessert! The ease of using sourdough discard means you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re also being resourceful. Each bite is a delicious balance of gooeyness and spice, making them irresistible. Trust me, everyone will be begging for seconds!

Ingredients for 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Before diving into the deliciousness, let’s gather our ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting those fluffy and flavorful cinnamon rolls you’ll love!

• Sourdough Discard: This is the star of the show! Using unfed, cold sourdough discard not only cuts down on waste but also adds a fantastic tanginess to the dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: A staple in baking, it provides the structure. You might need a bit more for dusting or if the dough feels too sticky.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning. You can adjust the amount based on your personal taste.
• Baking Powder: Our magic leavening agent! It helps the rolls rise quickly, ensuring they’re fluffy in just 30 minutes.
• Salt: A pinch is essential! It enhances the flavors, bringing everything together beautifully.
• Cold Unsalted Butter: You’ll cube this to create a buttery flavor and tender texture in the dough. Cold butter is best for a flaky result.
• Milk: This is for moisture. You can substitute it with any milk or non-dairy alternative if needed.
• Vanilla Extract: This little addition adds a warm, sweet flavor that elevates the overall taste.
• Brown Sugar: For that signature cinnamon roll sweetness! Feel free to increase the quantity for an extra sweet filling.
• Ground Cinnamon: The aromatic spice that gives these rolls their delightful flavor. Adjust to your satisfaction!
• Softened Unsalted Butter: This is for spreading on the dough for that gooey filling.
• Powdered Sugar: Used for the icing, it gives that perfect sweet finish to your rolls.
• Additional Milk: You’ll mix this with the icing, adding just enough liquid to achieve a smooth consistency.

You can find the exact quantities at the bottom of the article, ready for your convenience when you whip up these cinnamon rolls!

How to Make 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1 – Prepare the Dough

Let’s kick things off by whisking together our dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. You’ll mix the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until they’re well combined. Next, take your cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers. You want it to look like coarse crumbs! Now, it’s time to add your sourdough discard, milk, and vanilla. Stir everything until you form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Don’t worry, we’ll adjust with flour if we need to!

Step 2 – Knead the Dough

Now that your dough is all mixed, it’s time for a quick knead! Gently turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Here’s the key: knead it just 3 to 4 times, enough to bring it together but avoid overworking. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, and we want our cinnamon rolls soft and fluffy! If it’s still too sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour on top and fold it in lightly until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 3 – Roll and Fill the Dough

Once kneaded, roll the dough into a rectangle about 10 inches by 14 inches. Then, spread the softened butter all over the surface. Here comes the fun part! Combine your brown sugar and ground cinnamon, and sprinkle it evenly over the dough. Then, carefully roll it tightly from the long side into a log. Now slice your log into 8 even rolls. Don’t worry about perfection; the charm is in the homemade look!

Step 4 – Chill the Rolls

If your dough feels sticky, pop those sliced rolls onto a baking tray and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes. This will make handling the rolls so much easier and keeps everything intact during baking!

Step 5 – Bake the Rolls

It’s almost time to enjoy! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a 9-inch round pan or a small baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully place your chilled rolls in the pan, spacing them out a bit. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. You want them golden brown and fully baked in the center. Keep an eye on them! Some ovens might take up to 25 minutes, so watch for that heavenly aroma!

Step 6 – Prepare the Icing

While your rolls are baking, whip up a simple icing. In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. As soon as the cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, drizzle this sweet icing over the top. I recommend doing this while they’re warm for that extra gooey goodness!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your butter is cold for flaky rolls; this keeps them tender.
• Don’t skip the refrigeration step if the dough is sticky; it makes handling a breeze.
• Feel free to experiment with different fillings, like nuts or chocolate chips!
• Watch the baking time closely; ovens can vary, and you want the perfect golden brown.
• Serve immediately for the best gooey experience—who can resist warm cinnamon rolls?

Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a medium bowl works too.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork: For cutting in the butter; your fingers will do in a pinch!
• Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough; a wine bottle could work in a jam!
• Measuring Cups: To ensure you get the right amounts; a scale is helpful too.
• Baking Pan: A round 9-inch pan or small baking sheet to bake your rolls.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Add a half-cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a delightful twist!
• Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the rolls.
• Maple Icing: Swap out vanilla in the icing for maple extract, giving your rolls a unique and sweeter flavor!
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk and non-dairy butter to make these rolls suitable for a vegan diet.
• Spiced Rum Variation: Add a splash of spiced rum to the icing for an adult twist that’s perfect for brunch gatherings!

Serving Suggestions for 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy start to your day.
• Add a side of fresh fruit, like berries or banana slices, for a refreshing contrast.
• Wrap in a cute napkin for a lovely treat to share at a gathering.
• Consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for indulgence!
• Drizzle extra icing on top for a stunning presentation when hosting family or friends.

FAQs about 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard? Absolutely! Just remember that active starters may add a more pronounced sour flavor. If you love that tang, go for it!

What if my dough is too sticky? No worries! Just sprinkle a little more flour while kneading. You can also chill the dough to make it easier to handle.

How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the dough and fill them, then refrigerate before baking. Just let them sit out for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Making these 30-Minute Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls is like a warm hug on a plate. They combine the thrill of quick baking with the nostalgia of childhood treats, reminding us to savor life’s simple pleasures. Each roll is soft, gooey, and absolutely satisfying, creating memories with loved ones over shared experiences. Plus, they’re so versatile that you can enjoy them for breakfast or dessert! I hope this recipe inspires you to embrace the joy of baking with your sourdough discard, turning what could be waste into a delightful treat for your family. Dive in and enjoy every delicious bite!

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