30-Min Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls (TikTok Worthy!)

Fast, fluffy, and fabulous! These sourdough discard rolls are ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous weekend cravings. No yeast. No rising. All the indulgent, buttery cinnamon goodness.

🥐 What Makes These 30-Min Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls So Special?

Cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort treat—but traditional versions can take hours to rise, rest, and bake. This version? Total game changer.

Whether you’re deep in a sourdough journey or just have discard sitting in the fridge, these quick sourdough discard cinnamon rolls give you all the buttery, cinnamon-sugar swirl satisfaction in under 30 minutes. They’re fluffier than you’d expect for a no-rise recipe—and the warm, slightly tangy sourdough adds a flavor twist that’s made for TikTok-worthy food moments.

⏱️ Recipe Highlights

• No yeast required

• Uses sourdough discard (zero waste win!)

• 30 minutes start to finish

• Soft, fluffy, golden rolls with buttery cinnamon swirls

• Drizzled with a classic vanilla glaze

🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup sourdough discard (unfed)

• ½ cup milk (any kind)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)

• 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• ¾ cup powdered sugar

• 1 tablespoon melted butter

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream

🥣 How to Make 30-Min Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

🔪 Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.

In a separate bowl, stir together sourdough discard, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.

Lightly knead the dough on a floured surface for 30–60 seconds until smooth.

🍥 Step 2: Roll and Fill

Roll the dough into a rectangle, about 10×14 inches.

Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly across the surface.

Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 8–9 rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.

🔥 Step 3: Bake

Place the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined 9-inch baking pan. For best results, use a cast iron skillet or round cake pan.

Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the centers are cooked through.

🍯 Step 4: Glaze

Whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and milk to form a smooth glaze.

Drizzle generously over the warm rolls and serve immediately!

📌 Tips for the Best Quick Cinnamon Rolls

🧂 Don’t Skip the Salt

Even in sweet recipes, salt enhances flavor. It balances the sweetness and boosts the tang of the sourdough.

🕒 Bake Right Away

Because there’s no yeast, these rolls won’t rise on their own. Pop them into the oven right after cutting for maximum fluffiness.

❄️ Use Cold Butter for Extra Flaky Layers

While not essential, using cold butter in the dough (cut in like biscuits) can add a slightly layered texture.

🧁 Variations to Try

• Maple Pecan: Add chopped pecans and replace half the glaze with real maple syrup.

• Cardamom Twist: Add a pinch of cardamom to the filling for warmth.

• Cream Cheese Glaze: Swap the glaze for a tangy cream cheese icing.

🧊 Can I Make These Ahead?

These are best fresh, but you can prep the dough and filling in advance.

Option 1:

Prep and refrigerate the dough for up to 12 hours. Roll, fill, and bake the next day.

Option 2:

Freeze unbaked rolls: Place them on a tray, freeze, then store in a bag. Bake from frozen (add 5–7 minutes to the baking time).

🧼 Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for 1 day or in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F oven until warm.

• Refresh glaze with a drizzle of milk or fresh icing.

❓ FAQ: 30-Min Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

What is sourdough discard?

Sourdough discard is the portion of starter you remove before feeding your sourdough. It’s unfed and slightly tangy—perfect for baking when you want flavor without the rise.

Can I make these without sourdough?

Yes—replace the discard with equal parts yogurt or buttermilk. The flavor will differ slightly but still be delicious.

Why don’t these rolls need yeast?

They rely on baking powder and baking soda to lift the dough quickly—no rising time needed!

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, with a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute and a touch more moisture, though texture may vary.

Can I use almond or oat milk?

Absolutely. Any milk works here, though full-fat options give richer flavor.

🧡 Final Thoughts

These 30-minute sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are proof that good things don’t always take time. With no yeast, no waiting, and no compromise on flavor, they’re your go-to recipe for spontaneous cravings, family brunches, or viral TikTok-worthy baking moments.

Dust off that sourdough jar—you’ve got something sweet to bake.