Introduction
Nothing says comfort like a warm, gooey cinnamon roll right out of the oven, and when you add the delightful tang of sourdough, you’ve got a treat that’s both nostalgic and excitingly new! These Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are not only packed with rich flavors but also boast a fantastically fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Imagine the tantalizing aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as these beauties bake. Trust me, your family will be lining up for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough starter, fed or unfed
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tbsp milk (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm milk, granulated sugar, melted butter, and egg. Stir until the mixture is well blended and smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×10 inches.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon generously on top.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice the log into 12 individual rolls.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them gently, and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are finished baking, drizzle the icing over them while they are still warm. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- If your sourdough starter is unfed, don’t worry! The rolls will still rise beautifully.
- For a more decadent treat, double the icing recipe and generously spread it on the rolls after they cool slightly.
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough helps develop the gluten, which is crucial for achieving that wonderful soft texture in your cinnamon rolls. Be sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Additionally, allowing the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free environment will ensure it rises beautifully.
FAQ
- Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare the rolls, slice them, and place them in the baking dish the night before. Cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator. Just allow them to come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking. - Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Yes! After baking and icing the rolls, let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They will last up to three months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
These Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself to a cozy day at home. The combination of sourdough tang and sweet cinnamon makes for an unforgettable treat that’s sure to bring joy to your table. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy every heavenly bite together!