Introduction
Cinnamon roll sourdough is the ultimate fusion of tangy sourdough and sweet, gooey cinnamon rolls. This delightful treat combines the rich, complex flavor of sourdough with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and sugar. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a sourdough beginner, this guide will help you create irresistible cinnamon roll sourdough from scratch. Let’s dive into the process and unlock the secrets to making this mouthwatering dessert!
1. Ingredients and Tools for Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
The Dough
To make the perfect cinnamon roll sourdough, you’ll need:
- Sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- Flour (all-purpose or bread flour)
- Milk (whole milk for richness)
- Sugar (granulated for the dough, brown sugar for the filling)
- Butter (unsalted, softened)
- Salt (to enhance flavor)
- Eggs (for richness and structure)
The Filling
For the classic cinnamon roll filling:
- Cinnamon (ground, for that signature spice)
- Sugar (brown sugar for a caramel-like sweetness)
- Butter (softened, for spreading)
- Optional Add-ins: Chopped nuts, raisins, or even a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.
The Glaze
Choose between:
- Powdered Sugar Glaze: Powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
Tools
- Stand mixer (optional, but helpful for kneading)
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish (9×13 inches works well)
- Sharp knife or bench scraper (for cutting rolls)
- Parchment paper (to prevent sticking)
2. Preparing Your Sourdough Starter for Cinnamon Rolls
Active Starter
Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. Feed it 4-12 hours before baking to achieve peak activity.
Timing
Plan ahead! Feed your starter the night before baking to ensure it’s ready to use in the morning.
Substitutions
No sourdough starter? No problem! You can create a quick preferment by mixing flour, water, and a pinch of yeast. Let it sit overnight to develop a tangy flavor.
3. Making the Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Dough
Mixing
- Combine the sourdough starter, flour, milk, sugar, butter, salt, and eggs in a large bowl.
- Mix until a soft dough forms.
Kneading
- Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Add a little extra flour if the dough is too sticky.
First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise overnight (8-12 hours) at room temperature.
- This slow fermentation enhances the sourdough flavor and creates a tender texture.
4. Rolling, Filling, and Shaping
Rolling the Dough
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches) on a lightly floured surface.
- Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform rolls.
Spreading the Filling
- Spread softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of brown sugar and cinnamon. Add optional nuts or raisins if desired.
Shaping Rolls
- Tightly roll the dough into a log, starting from the long edge.
- Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the log into 12 even slices.
5. The Second Rise and Baking
Second Rise
- Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between them to expand.
- Cover and let them rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Baking Temperature
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Troubleshooting
- If rolls don’t rise: Ensure your sourdough starter was active and the dough wasn’t over-proofed.
- If rolls bake unevenly: Rotate the pan halfway through baking.
6. Glazing and Serving
Glazing Options
- Powdered Sugar Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until creamy. Spread over cooled rolls.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your cinnamon roll sourdough with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa for the ultimate treat.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll sourdough is a game-changer for anyone who loves the tangy depth of sourdough and the sweet comfort of cinnamon rolls. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll create a batch of irresistible rolls that are soft, flavorful, and utterly delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment with fillings and glazes to make this recipe your own. Share your results and tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear how your cinnamon roll sourdough turns out!
