No-Yeast Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Dream About

Skip the yeast but not the flavor! These ultra-fluffy sourdough cinnamon rolls are swirled with gooey cinnamon sugar and topped with dreamy cream cheese icing.

Why You’ll Love These No-Yeast Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something magical about warm, cinnamon-swirled rolls fresh from the oven. But if you’re short on time—or just don’t want to deal with yeast—this no-yeast sourdough cinnamon roll recipe is your new best friend.

With the tang of sourdough discard, soft and tender dough, and a thick ribbon of brown sugar and cinnamon, these rolls hit every craving note. No rising time needed, and they bake up beautifully golden in under an hour.

🥖 What Makes These Cinnamon Rolls Unique?

These aren’t your average cinnamon rolls. Here’s what sets them apart:

• No yeast: Perfect for when you’re out or avoiding yeast-based recipes.

• Sourdough discard: Adds flavor, depth, and zero waste.

• Quick to make: No long proofs—just mix, roll, bake.

• Ultra-soft dough: Thanks to the sourdough and buttermilk combo.

• Irresistible cream cheese icing: Tangy, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth good.

🧾 Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt

• ½ cup sourdough discard (unfed is fine)

• ½ cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• ⅓ cup brown sugar (light or dark)

• 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¾ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tablespoons milk, as needed for consistency

🥣 How to Make No-Yeast Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the sourdough discard, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until a soft dough forms. If needed, add a bit more flour—dough should be tacky but not sticky. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead gently for 30 seconds.

Step 2: Roll and Fill

Roll the dough into a rectangle about 10×12 inches. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.

Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long side. Use a sharp knife or floss to slice into 8 equal rolls.

Step 3: Bake

Place the rolls in a greased 9-inch round or square baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 22–26 minutes or until golden brown and puffy.

Step 4: Ice and Serve

While the rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar. Add milk a tablespoon at a time until smooth and spreadable.

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, slather on the cream cheese icing. Let it melt into every swirl.

📌 Pro Tips for Perfect No-Yeast Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

• Use discard, not active starter: This recipe is built for the tangy richness of discard.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined for soft, tender rolls.

• Soften your butter and cream cheese: For that perfectly smooth frosting.

📋 Substitutions & Variations

• No buttermilk? Use yogurt or make a DIY version: ½ cup milk + 1 tsp vinegar or lemon juice.

• Add-ins: Try chopped nuts, raisins, or a touch of orange zest.

• Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives.

🕓 Make Ahead & Storage Tips

• Make ahead: Assemble the rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let them sit at room temp while the oven preheats, then bake.

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerated for up to 5.

• Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for that “just baked” magic.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are indulgent on their own but even better with:

• A cup of strong coffee or chai

• Fresh berries or a side of fruit

• A drizzle of maple syrup if you’re feeling extra

❓ FAQ: No-Yeast Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make this recipe with active sourdough starter?

Yes! But the flavor may be slightly less tangy and the dough slightly different in texture. This recipe is optimized for discard (unfed).

Can I freeze the dough or baked rolls?

Yes. Freeze unbaked rolls on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen (add 5–7 minutes). Baked rolls can also be frozen—just wrap tightly and thaw overnight.

Why no yeast? Does it still rise?

The baking powder and baking soda give the rolls lift, while the sourdough adds flavor. You won’t miss the yeast at all!

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—with a quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though the texture will vary slightly.