Contents
New to sourdough? These soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls are the perfect place to start. So easy, so good!
🥖 Welcome to the Sweet Side of Sourdough
So, you’ve got a sourdough starter sitting on your counter and you’re wondering what sweet magic it’s capable of. You’re in the right place! These Beginner-Friendly Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are everything you want in a first-time recipe: easy, approachable, flexible, and deliciously rewarding.
Naturally leavened with your starter (no commercial yeast needed), these rolls are pillowy-soft, rich with cinnamon-sugar swirls, and topped with a simple glaze that finishes them off like a bakery treat. No special equipment, no intimidating steps—just honest, cozy baking you can feel proud of.
💛 Why These Rolls Are Perfect for Sourdough Beginners
✅ Foolproof method with flexible proofing times
✅ Step-by-step instructions with make-ahead options
✅ Uses active sourdough starter—no yeast required
✅ No mixer? No problem. Everything can be done by hand
✅ Topped with an easy vanilla glaze (no frosting stress!)
✅ Success even if your starter isn’t super strong yet
Whether you’re just getting started with sourdough or simply want a low-stress recipe for your weekend baking, this one’s a keeper.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Dough:
1 cup active sourdough starter (fed within 4–6 hours)
¾ cup warm milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 large egg
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
3¾ to 4¼ cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Filling:
½ cup packed brown sugar
1½ tablespoons cinnamon
¼ cup softened butter
For the Glaze:
¾ cup powdered sugar
1½ tablespoons milk (or cream)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
🕐 Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine your active sourdough starter, warm milk, egg, sugar, butter, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
Add the flour and salt gradually, stirring until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky. Knead the dough for 5–8 minutes by hand or using a stand mixer until elastic and smooth.
💡 Beginner Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a splash of milk.
⏱️ Step 2: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)
Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until nearly doubled in size. This can vary based on your starter and the temperature of your kitchen.
⏳ Make-Ahead Option: After the first rise, cover and refrigerate overnight. This improves the flavor and lets you bake in the morning!
🔄 Step 3: Roll, Fill, and Shape
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
Spread the softened butter evenly across the surface. Mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle it over the butter.
Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice into 9 equal pieces.
Place in a greased or parchment-lined 9×9″ or 9×13″ baking dish.
🕊️ Step 4: Final Proof
Cover and let the shaped rolls rise at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or until they’ve puffed up and nearly doubled in size.
💡 Beginner Tip: If the rolls aren’t rising much, move the pan to a warmer area like an oven with the light on (but turned off).
🔥 Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the cinnamon rolls for 22–28 minutes, until golden on top and just set in the center.
🔍 Check around 20 minutes. Tent with foil if the tops are browning too fast.
🍯 Step 6: Glaze and Serve
While the rolls are slightly warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle generously over the rolls.
Enjoy immediately or reheat later for maximum gooey goodness!
🧁 Optional Add-Ins
Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Apple chunks (add to filling before rolling)
Cream cheese glaze instead of vanilla
Sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for contrast
❓ FAQ: Beginner Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Can I use sourdough discard instead of active starter?
These rolls rely on active starter for rise. Discard won’t have enough power unless you add commercial yeast.
What if my starter isn’t super bubbly?
No problem! As long as it’s been recently fed and shows signs of activity, it’ll work. These rolls are very forgiving.
Can I skip the overnight option?
Yes! Just follow the same-day method with both rises at room temperature.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes. Use up to 50% whole wheat flour, but expect a slightly denser texture. Increase hydration slightly if needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temp for 1–2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat briefly before serving.
🎉 Final Thoughts
These Beginner-Friendly Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are proof that you don’t need years of sourdough experience to make something amazing. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, this recipe offers both comfort and confidence to new bakers.
Whether you’re treating your family to a weekend breakfast, impressing brunch guests, or just learning how sourdough works, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.