The Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls That Broke the Internet

Soft, oversized, and slathered in icing—these viral rolls are a must-bake for serious cinnamon roll lovers.

🌀 The Cinnamon Rolls Everyone’s Talking About

You’ve seen them on TikTok, pinned them on Pinterest, and maybe even dreamt about them: those giant, gooey, sourdough cinnamon rolls that practically ooze icing and break the internet every time someone posts a video cutting into one.

This is that recipe.

These aren’t your average buns—they’re tall, fluffy, bakery-style sourdough cinnamon rolls, naturally leavened and loaded with a rich cinnamon sugar swirl. Each bite is a perfect balance of tangy dough, sticky filling, and melt-in-your-mouth icing. And yes, they’re absolutely worth the hype.

🤍 Why These Rolls Went Viral

So what makes these #sourdoughcinnamonrolls a breakout star on social media?

• ✅ Oversized + ultra-fluffy for maximum drama

• ✅ Naturally leavened with active sourdough starter

• ✅ Stuffed with extra gooey cinnamon filling

• ✅ Pillowy-soft crumb with perfectly golden edges

• ✅ Piled high with thick vanilla cream cheese icing

• ✅ Perfect for slow mornings, special brunches, and wow-worthy reels

🧾 Ingredients

Dough:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed within 4–6 hours)

• ¾ cup warm milk (dairy or plant-based)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp salt

• 4 to 4½ cups all-purpose flour

Cinnamon Filling:

• ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark)

• 1½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

• ½ cup softened butter (not melted)

Thick Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 3 tablespoons butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1–2 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

🍞 The Sourdough Secret

Sourdough gives these cinnamon rolls:

• A slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness

• A light, chewy texture

• Better digestibility than yeast-only doughs

• An artisan feel that makes them stand out

💡 Note: These rolls use a long-ferment sourdough process—no commercial yeast needed!

🥣 How to Make These Viral Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough (Day 1 – Afternoon or Evening)

In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix sourdough starter, milk, eggs, sugar, butter, and vanilla.

Add flour and salt, kneading for 8–10 minutes until the dough is soft and smooth. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

Cover and let rise for 4–6 hours at room temp, or until nearly doubled. For best flavor and texture, refrigerate overnight after this rise.

Step 2: Shape the Rolls (Day 2 – Morning)

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.

Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously.

Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice into 8 giant rolls (or 10–12 standard).

Place in a buttered 9×13-inch pan, leaving room for expansion.

Step 3: Final Rise

Cover and let the rolls rise in a warm place until doubled in size—about 2 to 4 hours depending on your room temperature.

They should be visibly puffy and pressing against each other.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through but still tender in the center.

💡 Tip: Check at 22 minutes and loosely cover with foil if browning too quickly.

Step 5: Ice Immediately

While the rolls are still warm, slather with the thick cream cheese icing so it melts slightly into the swirls.

Optional: Save a little icing to drizzle over cooled rolls for an even more dramatic look.

📸 Tips for Going Viral With These Rolls

📏 Go Big or Go Home

Cut thick slices (about 2 inches each) to get that towering roll look.

🎥 Show the Swirl

Get a slow pull-apart shot or drizzle close-up for social media wow factor.

🎨 Ice with Intention

Pile on the icing while warm, then top with another layer once cooled for a double-drip effect.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Pair with a maple latte or chai tea

• Serve as part of a brunch spread with fresh fruit

• Top with crushed pecans or walnuts for crunch

• Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness

🔁 Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips

• Overnight Prep: After shaping, refrigerate the rolls overnight. Let them warm up for 45–60 minutes before baking.

• Freeze Before Baking: Shape and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then rise and bake.

• Freeze After Baking: Let cool, then wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat and glaze before serving.

❓ FAQ: Viral Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Can I use sourdough discard instead?

For this recipe, active starter is required to get the proper rise and texture.

What if my rolls don’t rise overnight?

Your starter may be sluggish. Move the pan to a warmer area (around 75–80°F) and give it more time.

Can I make them without cream cheese?

Yes! Swap for a simple glaze: powdered sugar + milk + vanilla.

Can I make these vegan?

Use plant-based milk, a flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water), and vegan butter + vegan cream cheese for frosting.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce the filling sugar to ½ cup and use less icing, but expect less sweetness overall.

🌟 Final Thoughts

These are more than just cinnamon rolls. They’re the sourdough cinnamon rolls that broke the internet—oversized, outrageously gooey, and completely unforgettable.

If you’re ready to impress your brunch crowd, blow up your baking feed, or simply treat yourself to something truly next level, this is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. Go big, bake bold, and don’t forget the icing.