Soft, gooey, and naturally tangy, these sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are the perfect way to turn extra starter into a comforting breakfast treat. This make-ahead-friendly recipe includes rich cinnamon filling and a creamy frosting, with options for no yeast, overnight rise, and even gluten-free or vegan variations.
1 Kitchen towel Or plastic wrap to cover during rising
Ingredients
For the Dough
3½cupsAll-purpose flour
¼cupSugar
2teaspoonInstant yeastOptional, speeds up rise
1teaspoonSalt
1cupSourdough discardUnfed starter
¼cupButterMelted
1EggLarge
½cupMilkWarm
For the Filling
¾cupBrown sugar
2tablespoonCinnamonGround
¼cupButterSoftened
Optional add-insChopped nuts or raisins
For the Frosting
4ozCream cheeseSoftened
¼cupButterSoftened
1½cupsPowdered sugar
1teaspoonVanilla extract
1pinchSalt
tablespoonHeavy creamOptional, for consistency
Instructions
Combine dry and wet dough ingredients and knead until smooth.
Let dough rise in a covered bowl until doubled.
Mix filling and roll dough into a rectangle. Spread butter and sprinkle cinnamon-sugar.
Roll up dough tightly and cut into 12 rolls.
Place rolls in pan, cover, and let rise again until puffy.
Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden.
Beat frosting ingredients together until fluffy.
Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
You can refrigerate the rolls before the second rise for an overnight option. For vegan or gluten-free modifications, use appropriate substitutes for dairy, egg, and flour.