Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about the scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. These sourdough cinnamon rolls not only boast a delightful flavor but also a beautiful texture, thanks to the active sourdough starter. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a sweet treat any day of the week, they are guaranteed to make your mornings a little brighter. Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (includes rising time)
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, milk, and melted butter, stirring until well mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Once combined, add the egg and continue mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm area for 2-3 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once risen, roll the dough out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick on a floured surface.
- Spread a layer of softened butter generously over the dough, then sprinkle a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg evenly across the surface.
- Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased baking pan, cover gently, and let them rise for another hour.
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Once baked, drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve them fresh from the oven!
Notes or Tips
For a rich and buttery flavor, be sure to use high-quality unsalted butter. If you don’t have an active sourdough starter, you can substitute it with a commercial yeast dough, but the tangy flavor of sourdough adds a unique depth that’s worth the wait. Enjoy experimenting with nuts or dried fruit as an added filling for your rolls!
Cooking Techniques
Kneading the dough is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the rolls their fluffy texture. Make sure your dough is not too sticky; adding a little extra flour can help if needed. Also, the rising times are important – giving the dough enough time to rise will yield rolls that are light and airy.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls the night before?
Absolutely! Prepare the rolls up to the point before baking, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, simply let them come to room temperature and rise a bit before baking.
How should I store leftover rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
These sourdough cinnamon rolls are more than just a treat; they are a delightful experience that will wrap you in warmth with every bite. Whether you are indulging solo with a cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones, these rolls are sure to bring smiles around the table. Happy baking, and enjoy the delectable results!