Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If there is one indulgent treat that combines the tangy charm of sourdough with the comforting sweetness of cinnamon, it has to be the Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. These rolls are the ultimate cozy breakfast or snack, boasting a pillowy softness with just the right hint of sourdough tang, warm cinnamon spice, and a luscious drizzle of vanilla icing. Every bite melts in your mouth and delivers a delightful complexity, making this recipe a standout in any baker’s collection. Whether you’re a sourdough pro or a cinnamon roll enthusiast, these rolls promise to become an instant favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these irresistibly soft sourdough cinnamon rolls, you only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance guaranteed to impress.

• Active sourdough starter (150g): Ensure it’s bubbly and lively to give your dough that signature tangy flavor.
• Warm water (325g): Helps activate the starter and brings the dough together smoothly.
• Honey (25g): Adds a subtle sweetness and helps with browning during baking.
• Avocado oil (20g): Keeps the dough tender without overpowering the flavors.
• High-protein white bread flour (500g): Essential for a chewy, elastic dough that holds its shape well.
• Salt (10g): Balances the sweetness and strengthens the dough structure.
• Melted butter for filling (78g): Gives richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the dough.
• Cinnamon (2 tablespoons): Infuses the rolls with that signature warm, spicy aroma.
• Sugar (99g): Sweetens the filling perfectly without overwhelming the sourdough tang.
• Raisins (150g): Adds juicy bursts of flavor and texture contrast.
• Powdered sugar for icing (225g): Smooth and sweet, this creates the perfect finishing touch.
• Melted butter for icing (75g): Adds lusciousness and depth to the glaze.
• Vanilla (1 tablespoon): Brings warmth and rounds out the flavors in the icing beautifully.

How to Make Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Starter

Begin by ensuring your sourdough starter is active and bubbly—that means it’s ready to give your dough the lovely rise and tang it needs. This is the heart of your Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, so don’t rush this step. A lively starter ensures the dough will develop great flavor and texture.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the warm water, active starter, honey, and avocado oil until well combined. This mixture starts the fermentation process and sets the base for a soft, elastic dough.

Step 3: Add the Flour and Form Dough

Gradually stir in the high-protein bread flour until a shaggy dough forms. At this point, it will look rough and slightly sticky – that’s just right. This shaggy stage readies the dough for further kneading and rising.

Step 4: Initial Rest and Salting

Let your dough rest for one hour; this relaxes the gluten and allows the starter to work its magic. After resting, incorporate the salt by sprinkling it over the dough and gently folding it in with wet hands. Salt is vital here to balance the flavor while strengthening the dough.

Step 5: Stretch and Fold Technique

Perform the stretch and fold method every 30 minutes. This technique develops gluten gently without heavy kneading and helps the dough achieve the elusive windowpane texture—meaning it’s elastic and strong enough to stretch thin without tearing. It’s one of the keys to those soft, fluffy rolls.

Step 6: Roll and Shape

Once the dough is ready, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread melted butter evenly over the dough to ensure every bite is buttery and rich.

Step 7: Sprinkle the Cinnamon Filling

Mix cinnamon and sugar together, then sprinkle the mixture evenly across the buttered dough. Don’t forget the raisins—they add a lovely sweetness and texture. Roll the dough tightly from the longer edge to create a spiral packed with flavor.

Step 8: Cut and Proof

Slice the rolled dough into even pieces and place them in an oiled pan, spaced to allow rising. Cover and let the rolls rise until doubled in size. This step is crucial to achieving that fluffy, airy texture.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your rolls at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, ensuring the softness stays intact.

Step 10: Icing and Finishing Touch

Once slightly cooled, drizzle your rolls with a luscious icing made from powdered sugar, melted butter, and vanilla. This sweet finish perfectly complements the tangy dough and spicy filling.

How to Serve Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and flavor, try sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the icing. A light dusting of extra cinnamon powder or a few fresh raisins can also add visual appeal and an extra flavor boost, making each bite even more inviting.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls with warm beverages like freshly brewed coffee, spiced chai, or creamy hot chocolate for a truly comforting experience. For a brunch spread, offer fresh fruit or yogurt on the side to balance the sweetness and create a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your cinnamon rolls warm in a rustic wooden basket lined with a cozy cloth napkin for a charming, homemade vibe. Alternatively, arrange them on a tiered cake platter for special occasions or breakfast gatherings to impress your guests effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover cinnamon rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft. Avoid the fridge as it can dry out the rolls and dull their texture, which is what makes this Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe so wonderful.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after shaping by wrapping the pan tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then let come to room temperature and rise before baking. You can also freeze baked rolls individually, wrapped well, for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To freshen leftover rolls, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for short bursts with a damp paper towel on top to retain moisture. This simple step brings back that soft, freshly-baked feeling every time.

FAQs

Can I use a different flour besides white bread flour?

While white bread flour is recommended for its high protein content that develops great gluten, you can experiment with all-purpose flour. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly less chewy and the rise not as strong.

What if my sourdough starter isn’t very active?

For the best results, make sure your starter is bubbly and active before baking. If it’s sluggish, feed it a few times until it becomes lively; this will ensure your rolls rise well and get that distinctive tang.

Can I omit the raisins or substitute them?

Absolutely! Raisins add lovely sweetness and texture, but you can swap them for chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even skip them entirely if you prefer a classic cinnamon roll flavor.

Is the icing necessary?

The icing offers a sweet finishing touch that’s traditional and delicious, but if you’re watching sugar or prefer a lighter roll, these cinnamon rolls are still fantastic on their own.

How can I make the rolls extra soft?

This Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe relies on gentle stretch-and-folds and proper proofing. Avoid overworking the dough and ensure proper rising times to achieve maximum softness. Adding a bit more oil or butter to the dough can also help keep them tender.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough giving this Soft Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe a go—whether it’s for a weekend treat or a special occasion. The combination of sourdough’s tang with the sweet cinnamon filling and rich icing creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Baking these rolls is not just about the delicious reward but also about the joy of nurturing dough and sharing warmth with loved ones. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy every delightful bite!

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