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Several fluffy sourdough discard cinnamon rolls shown close-up in a baking dish, covered in a thick, glossy, white frosting. (Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls)

The Ultimate Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls (Fluffy & Gooey)

This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls recipe creates the most fluffy, soft, and gooey rolls you'll ever try. The sourdough discard adds incredible flavour, balanced by a thick and tangy cream cheese frosting. A perfect no-waste recipe!
Prep Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 455

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups (480g) All-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240g) Unfed sourdough discard
  • 2 1/4 tsp (7g) Active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240ml) Whole milk warmed to 110°F (43°C)
  • 6 tbsp (85g) Unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup (50g) Granulated sugar
  • 1 Large egg at room temperature
  • 1 tsp (6g) Sea salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) Unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup (220g) Brown sugar packed
  • 2 tbsp (15g) Ground cinnamon
  • 8 oz (226g) Full-fat block cream cheese softened
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) Powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup (57g) Unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tsp (5ml) Vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp (15-30ml) Milk or heavy cream

Equipment

  • 1 Stand Mixer with dough hook
  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 Rolling Pin

Method
 

  1. In a stand mixer bowl, whisk warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, and sourdough discard and mix. Add flour and salt, then knead with a dough hook for 7-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  2. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  3. Combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling. Roll the risen dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a ½-inch border on one long edge. Roll tightly into a log and pinch to seal.
  4. Cut the log into 12 rolls and place in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until golden-brown and the filling is bubbly.
  6. While rolls bake, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and 1 tbsp milk; beat until creamy. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency. Let rolls cool for 5-10 minutes, then spread frosting generously over the top.

Notes

Room Temperature is Key: Using a room temperature egg and softened butter/cream cheese ensures everything mixes together smoothly.
Don’t Kill the Yeast: Make sure your milk is just warm to the touch, not hot (under 120°F / 49°C).
Dental Floss for Clean Cuts: Use unflavoured dental floss to slice the log for clean, un-squished rolls.
Don’t Over-Bake: Pull the rolls from the oven when they are golden brown to keep them soft and moist.