Introduction
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These sourdough cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic recipe, taking advantage of the unique tangy flavor that only sourdough can bring. They’re soft, fluffy, and generously swirled with a rich cinnamon and brown sugar filling, making them the perfect treat for a cozy weekend brunch or a special breakfast. Get ready to indulge in a burst of flavor that will have your whole family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Additional melted butter for brushing
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (including rising time)
Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, milk, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth.
- Add in the eggs and mix until fully incorporated into the batter.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough starts to form.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle that is about 1/4 inch thick.
- Brush the surface of the rolled-out dough generously with melted butter.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the buttered dough.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
- Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces, then place them into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover the dish with a cloth and allow the rolls to rise for another 30-45 minutes until they appear puffy and tender.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown on top.
- Once they’re out of the oven, let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling with icing if desired.
Notes or Tips
For an extra special touch, consider adding a cream cheese icing on top for a rich and creamy finish. You can also experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, to personalize the flavor. If you have any leftover rolls, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or frozen for longer storage!
Cooking Techniques
Making sourdough cinnamon rolls is not just about following a recipe; it’s about enjoying the process. Kneading the dough by hand helps develop the gluten, giving the rolls their delightful texture. Allowing enough time for rising is essential, as this is when your dough will trap air and become light and airy. And remember, patience is key — the longer rise time of sourdough enhances the flavor beautifully!
FAQ
Can I use a regular yeast instead of sourdough starter?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a sourdough starter handy, you can replace it with the same amount of active yeast. However, the flavor profile will be different.
How do I know when my rolls are done?
The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. You can also use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C).
Conclusion
These sourdough cinnamon rolls are a heartfelt way to bring a bit of warmth and comfort into your kitchen. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or slightly warmed the next day, they’re a true testament to home baking. So roll up your sleeves, let that sourdough magic work its wonders, and indulge in a sweet treat that’s sure to become a family favorite!