Easy Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls (Soft, Gooey & Made With Discard)

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with extra sourdough discard, these sourdough cinnamon rolls are about to become your new favorite bake. Soft, fluffy, and generously swirled with cinnamon sugar, they deliver that classic bakery-style gooey center — without complicated techniques or long fermentation times.

This recipe is designed specifically for sourdough discard cinnamon rolls, meaning you get all the flavor benefits of sourdough without waiting overnight. Inspired by cozy, homey rolls like the ones you see in viral baking photos — thick icing, golden edges, and tender layers — these rolls are perfect for weekend baking, holiday mornings, or anytime you want an easy sourdough sweet roll that feels special but approachable.

Whether you’re searching for an easy sourdough starter cinnamon rolls recipe, a fast sourdough discard recipe, or even a cinnamon-roll-meets-focaccia-style bake, you’re in the right place.

What Makes These Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Special

These sourdough cinnamon rolls are all about ease, texture, and flexibility:

• Made with sourdough discard (no waste, no stress)
• Soft, tender crumb with a lightly tangy flavor
• Quick rise using yeast (no overnight proof required)
• Thick cream-cheese-style icing for that “so soft and gooey” finish
• Beginner-friendly and forgiving

They sit perfectly between traditional yeast rolls and trendy sourdough discard sweet rolls, making them ideal for both new and experienced sourdough bakers.

Why Use Sourdough Discard in Cinnamon Rolls?

Using discard in cinnamon rolls is one of the best ways to stretch your sourdough routine.

Benefits of Sourdough Discard:

• Adds depth of flavor without overpowering tang
• Improves texture and softness
• Reduces food waste
• Works beautifully in easy fast sourdough discard recipes

These rolls don’t rely on long fermentation, which makes them perfect if you want easy sourdough cinnamon rolls without planning days ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough

• Warm milk
• Active dry yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Sourdough discard (unfed)
• Melted butter
• Egg
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

For the Cinnamon Filling

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Softened butter

For the Icing

• Cream cheese (or butter-only option)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or cream

💡 This ingredient setup also works well for sourdough discard sweet rolls or even a focaccia-inspired cinnamon roll bake if you want a pan-style version.

How to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add sourdough discard, melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft, slightly tacky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead & First Rise

Knead by hand or mixer until smooth. Cover and let rise until doubled — about 60–90 minutes.

Step 4: Roll & Fill

Roll dough into a rectangle. Spread butter evenly, then sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Roll tightly and slice into thick rolls. Place in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover and let rise again until puffy.

Step 7: Bake

Bake until lightly golden and set in the center.

Step 8: Ice & Serve

Spread icing while warm for maximum gooey goodness.

Pro Tips for Soft & Gooey Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

• Don’t overflour the dough — softer dough = softer rolls
• Use room-temperature discard for better blending
• Ice while warm so it melts into the rolls
• For extra gooey centers, pour warm cream over rolls before baking

These small tweaks make a huge difference, especially if you love soft sourdough discard cinnamon rolls.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips

Make Ahead

Assemble rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before baking.

Storage

Store baked rolls covered at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze baked (uniced) rolls up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before icing.

Variations You’ll Love

Focaccia-Style Cinnamon Rolls

Press dough into a sheet pan, dimple, spread cinnamon sugar, bake, and ice — inspired by sourdough discard focaccia cinnamon roll recipes.

Extra Easy Sweet Rolls

Skip shaping, cut into squares, and bake for rustic easy sourdough starter cinnamon rolls.

Dairy-Free Option

Use plant-based butter and milk with excellent results.

FAQ: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make sourdough cinnamon rolls with discard only?

Yes — this recipe is designed specifically for sourdough discard cinnamon rolls, using yeast for lift.

Do these taste sour?

No. The flavor is mild and balanced, perfect for sweet rolls.

Can I use active sourdough starter?

Yes, but discard works best for consistency and speed.

Are these good for beginners?

Absolutely. This is one of the most forgiving easy sourdough cinnamon rolls recipes.

Can I bake these as a focaccia?

Yes! Many bakers love the cinnamon roll sourdough discard focaccia variation.

Conclusion

These sourdough cinnamon rolls are everything you want in a homemade treat: soft, gooey, comforting, and surprisingly easy. Whether you’re baking with leftover discard, experimenting with sweet sourdough recipes, or just craving a cozy classic, this recipe delivers every time.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out more easy fast sourdough discard recipes and sign up for our newsletter for weekly baking inspiration.

f you love cozy weekend breakfasts, you’ll also like this easy French toast for brunch.