The Ultimate Cinnamon Sourdough Rolls Recipe for Perfect Mornings

If you’re anything like me, you probably can’t resist a warm, gooey cinnamon roll fresh from the oven. But have you ever tried them with a sourdough twist? This cinnamon sourdough recipe brings together the cozy sweetness of a classic cinnamon roll and the deep, slightly tangy flavor that only sourdough can give, and honestly, it’s a match made in baking heaven.

I started experimenting with this one after a few too many batches of basic sourdough bread and a craving for something a little more indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly super simple. Plus, the dough rises overnight, so you can wake up, bake, and enjoy the best kind of breakfast with zero rush.

Whether you’re looking to wow weekend guests or just want to make a quiet morning feel a little more special, this one hits the spot every time.

How to Make it

Cinnamon Sourdough Rolls Recipe

Recipe by Kenza Edem

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Breakfast, BrunchCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

12

rolls

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories per roll

290

kcal

These cinnamon sourdough rolls combine the tangy flavor of sourdough with the warmth of cinnamon sugar, creating a soft and delicious treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

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Ingredients

• For the Dough

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)

• 3.5 cups all-purpose flour

• 0.5 cup whole milk

• 0.25 cup sugar

• 1 large egg

• 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tsp salt

• For the Filling

• 0.75 cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp cinnamon

• 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted

• Optional Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 3 tbsp milk or cream

• 0.5 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

• Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine your active sourdough starter, flour, sugar, milk, egg, softened butter, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t worry if it looks a little rough at first, kneading will smooth things out.
• Knead it out: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes. It should become soft, elastic, and a little tacky, but not sticky. A stand mixer with a dough hook also works great here.
• Let it rest overnight: Pop the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise at room temp for 8–12 hours. By morning, it should be puffy and doubled in size.
• Make the filling: In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll the dough out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the melted butter all over, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the top.
• Roll and slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 even pieces.
• Second rise: Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 1–2 hours, until they look soft and puffy.
• Bake time: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven.
• Glaze it (optional): While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and let it soak in.

Notes

• Make sure your sourdough starter is active before beginning the recipe.
• If you prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, increase the amount of cinnamon in the filling.
• You can add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
• Be careful not to overbake the rolls, as they can dry out quickly.

Nutrition Facts

• Total number of serves: 12
• Calories: 290kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g
• Protein: 5g

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Why You’re Gonna Love This Cinnamon Sourdough (Trust Me)

This isn’t just your average cinnamon roll situation. There’s something about the sourdough magic that gives these rolls a light, chewy texture and a flavor that’s just deeper and more interesting. The long fermentation adds complexity, and that cinnamon-sugar swirl? It caramelizes into gooey perfection.

Here’s what makes this cinnamon sourdough recipe so special:

• Overnight rise = effortless morning baking. You mix the dough the night before, then just roll, fill, and bake the next day.
• Sourdough adds flavor depth. The natural fermentation brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
• Soft, fluffy texture. The dough bakes up beautifully tender, thanks to the egg, butter, and milk.
• Customizable filling. Keep it classic or get creative with add-ins like chopped nuts, raisins, or even a bit of cardamom.
• Optional glaze. You can go light, heavy, or skip it entirely, up to you!
• Adaptable for dietary needs. Try using plant-based butter and milk for a dairy-free version, or experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

What to Prep Ahead (So You’re Not Rushing Later)

This recipe is super chill once you plan ahead a little. Here’s what I usually prep to make the process smooth and stress-free:

• Feed your sourdough starter a few hours before mixing the dough, so it’s nice and bubbly.
• Soften the butter for the dough and melt the butter for the filling, room temperature ingredients make mixing way easier.
• Measure out your ingredients ahead of time so you’re not scrambling mid-recipe.
• Grease your baking dish so it’s ready to go when your rolls are shaped.
• Mix your glaze ingredients in advance and store in the fridge, if you want to save even more time in the morning.

My Cinnamon-Swirled Secrets for Sourdough Success

I’ve baked these rolls more times than I can count (usually barefoot, coffee in hand, dancing to a Saturday playlist), and I’ve picked up a few little secrets along the way that take them from “yum” to “holy moly, I need another one.”

• Let your dough take its sweet time. Sourdough is naturally slow, don’t rush the bulk fermentation or second rise. A long, puffy proof is what makes the texture dreamy.
• Room temp is your best friend. Cold milk or eggs = sluggish dough. Let ingredients sit out before mixing.
• Even dough = even baking. When you roll the dough out, aim for consistent thickness. That way, every roll bakes perfectly.
• Use dental floss (yes, really). It slices cleanly without flattening the rolls. Way better than hacking away with a knife.
• Watch the oven, not the clock. Start checking at 25 minutes. You want golden tops and a soft center, not overdone.
• Glaze like a pro. Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes before drizzling. Want a foolproof topping? Try this cinnamon roll glaze recipe, it’s silky, sweet, and sets beautifully.

Flavor Twists to Keep Things Exciting (Because Who Says You Can’t Play with Your Food?)

You know that moment when your sourdough game is solid, and you want to try something new? These playful twists are fun, delicious, and a great way to keep your baking feeling fresh.

• Chai Cinnamon Sourdough Rolls: Swap classic cinnamon for a chai spice blend, think cardamom, cloves, and ginger. Super cozy and just a little exotic. (You’ll love this chai cinnamon recipe for the perfect blend.)
• Nut Lovers’ Delight: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling. The extra crunch is so satisfying.
• Apple Pie-Inspired Rolls: Dice up a small apple and mix it with the cinnamon sugar before rolling. Bonus: it smells like a fall dream while baking.
• Cream Cheese Glaze Upgrade: Want that bakery-style finish? Mix your glaze with a little cream cheese and butter for extra richness.
• Simple and Sweet: Not big on glaze? A dusting of powdered sugar gives them an elegant, less-sweet vibe.
• Savory Detour: Leave out the sugar in the dough and swap the filling for garlic butter and herbs. Unexpected, but totally amazing.

And if you’re curious about other sourdough roll ideas, this sourdough rolls recipe is a great companion to today’s version!

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s Wrap This Up (And Grab Another Roll, Right?)

I hope this cinnamon sourdough recipe brings your kitchen the same joy it brings mine, warmth, comfort, and that sweet-tangy magic that makes you want to share a roll with everyone you know. Whether it’s your first time baking with sourdough or your hundredth batch of rolls, this recipe is all about slowing down and savoring the process (and, of course, the results).

If you’re ready to master the sourdough game even more, check out this foolproof sourdough starter guide, perfect if you’re just starting or want to level up your starter.

Thanks for baking with me! Now go enjoy that second roll, you’ve earned it.