Introduction
Cinnamon rolls are a timeless comfort food that combines soft dough, a sweet filling, and a creamy glaze. What makes discard cinnamon rolls unique is the use of sourdough discard, which adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to the dough. Many bakers who maintain sourdough starters often wonder what to do with the leftover discard, and this recipe turns that challenge into an opportunity for a delicious treat. The result is a batch of rolls that are soft, slightly chewy, and rich in flavor. Preparing discard cinnamon rolls at home is rewarding because you get to enjoy both the process and the warm aroma that fills your kitchen. The method is straightforward, and the results are bakery worthy without being overly complicated.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 3 cups | 1365 |
| Sourdough discard | 1 cup | 180 |
| Milk | 1 cup | 150 |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tbsp | 610 |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | 385 |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup | 415 |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ tsp | 20 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Cinnamon powder | 2 tbsp | 38 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | 400 |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | 480 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Warm the milk slightly and stir in the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, sugar, egg, melted butter, and the milk yeast mixture. Mix until smooth.
- Add flour and salt gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for about ten minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly across the dough.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into equal sized rolls.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Cover and let them rise again until puffy.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about twenty five to thirty minutes until golden brown.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts gives a delightful crunch. A drizzle of caramel sauce on top makes them richer. If you prefer lighter sweetness, reduce the sugar in the filling slightly. For an extra burst of flavor, add a touch of orange zest to the dough or frosting. These small adjustments make the recipe adaptable for personal taste.
Nutritional Information
One cinnamon roll contains about 290 to 320 calories depending on the size. They are higher in carbohydrates from flour and sugar, with moderate fat from butter and cream cheese. Protein content comes from the flour, egg, and dairy. While indulgent, these rolls can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions
Discard cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven. Pair them with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea for a comforting breakfast or snack. They also make a wonderful dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Leftovers can be gently reheated in the microwave or oven to bring back their softness.
Conclusion
Making discard cinnamon rolls is a satisfying way to use sourdough discard while treating yourself and your loved ones to something special. The recipe balances the familiar sweetness of classic cinnamon rolls with a hint of tanginess from the discard, creating a flavor that feels both traditional and unique. Sharing a tray of these soft, fragrant rolls is a simple act that brings warmth to any table.
