Name: Cinnamon Roll Pull-Apart Sourdough
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: Active Sourdough Starter: 1/2 cup – Provides the tangy flavor and airy texture to the dough.; Flour: 4 cups – All-purpose flour creates the perfect structure for the dough.; Sugar: 1/2 cup – Adds sweetness to both the dough and the cinnamon filling.; Salt: 1 tsp – Balances the sweetness and enhances the dough’s flavor.; Butter: 1/2 cup – Keeps the dough rich and soft.; Cinnamon: 2 tsp – The signature spice of the cinnamon filling.; Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup – Adds moisture and sweetness to the filling.; Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup – Creates a smooth, creamy glaze to drizzle over the rolls.; Powdered Sugar: 1 cup – The key ingredient for the glaze’s sweetness.

Welcome to a sweet journey of flavors and textures with this delightful Cinnamon Roll Pull-Apart Sourdough recipe! Imagine the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home, evoking cozy memories of mornings spent with loved ones. These cinnamon rolls are not only a delicious treat but also a celebration of the tangy, rich taste of sourdough, beautifully complemented by a luscious cinnamon-sugar filling. With each bite, enjoy the perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of tang that will tantalize your taste buds.

What makes this recipe so appealing is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily whip these up for a special breakfast, a cozy brunch, or even as a delightful dessert. The pull-apart nature of these rolls makes them perfect for sharing, ensuring that no one can resist reaching for seconds (or thirds!). Plus, with a heavenly glaze drizzled on top, these rolls turn from ordinary to extraordinary, making every occasion feel special.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just stepping into the world of sourdough, this recipe is user-friendly and straightforward. It offers the joys of baking with a rewarding end product that will impress your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s create a batch of these exquisite Cinnamon Roll Pull-Apart Sourdough rolls that promise to take your breakfast game to the next level!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Pull-Apart Sourdough

Unique Flavor: The mix of sourdough with sweet cinnamon creates a delightful contrast.
Easy to Share: Perfect for gatherings with its pull-apart style.
Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or other fillings for variations.
Perfectly Balanced: The sweet glaze complements the rich dough beautifully.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the baking process, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools to ensure a seamless experience. Start by setting out a large mixing bowl, a spatula, and measuring cups for accuracy. You’ll also need a rolling pin to roll out the dough and a baking pan for the assembled rolls. Don’t forget parchment paper for easy cleanup!

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is essential, as this provides the right baking environment for your rolls. Lightly greasing your baking pan beforehand will prevent any stickiness, leading to easier removal once they’re baked. Setting up your workspace in advance helps you move through the recipe smoothly and efficiently.

Ingredients

Active Sourdough Starter: 1/2 cup – Provides the tangy flavor and airy texture to the dough.
Flour: 4 cups – All-purpose flour creates the perfect structure for the dough.
Sugar: 1/2 cup – Adds sweetness to both the dough and the cinnamon filling.
Salt: 1 tsp – Balances the sweetness and enhances the dough’s flavor.
Butter: 1/2 cup – Keeps the dough rich and soft.
Cinnamon: 2 tsp – The signature spice of the cinnamon filling.
Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup – Adds moisture and sweetness to the filling.
Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup – Creates a smooth, creamy glaze to drizzle over the rolls.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup – The key ingredient for the glaze’s sweetness.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring that when you are ready to bake, your oven is at the perfect temperature. Grease your baking pan well to allow for easy removal of the rolls later. Parchment paper can be a great addition here for even easier cleanup.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your active sourdough starter, flour, sugar, salt, and softened butter. Use a spatula or your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly until the dough starts to come together. The butter is crucial for the softness of the roll, making it rich and a pleasure to eat.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once the dough is formed, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle. Melt some butter and spread it evenly over the dough, creating a barrier for the cinnamon and sugar mixture. In a separate bowl, mix cinnamon and brown sugar and then sprinkle it generously across the melted butter. The mix creates a lovely filling that becomes gooey and flavorful during baking.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Carefully roll the dough up tightly, starting from one edge to the other, ensuring the filling stays inside. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut the dough into equal slices, about 1-2 inches thick. Position the slices upright in the greased baking pan, allowing them to nestle together for support as they rise and bake.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the kitchen is filled with the irresistible smell of cinnamon. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure they don’t over-bake.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

After baking, let the rolls cool slightly before preparing the glaze. Combine powdered sugar and heavy cream in a bowl until smooth and drizzle it generously over warm rolls. Enjoy your Cinnamon Roll Pull-Apart Sourdough warm and fresh out of the oven!

Variations

Protein: Consider adding cooked bacon or sausage bits within the roll for a savory twist.
Vegetables: For a lighter take, incorporate finely chopped spinach or roasted peppers with cheese.
Spices: Add nutmeg or cloves for additional warm flavors in the filling.

Cooking Notes

Rest the dough for a longer rise time for a fluffier texture in your rolls.
Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before serving to avoid the glaze melting too much.
You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight for convenience.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the cinnamon rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
Serve alongside a seasonal fruit salad for a fresh complement.

Tips

Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
If your sourdough starter isn’t bubbly, give it some time to ferment before using.
You can also freeze the rolls after baking for a quick breakfast treat by reheating them in the oven.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 300
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 180mg

FAQs

How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend freshness.

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Yes! Allow baked rolls to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat by placing them in a warm oven.

What can I substitute for sourdough starter?

If you do not have a sourdough starter, you may substitute with an equal volume of all-purpose flour mixed with a little yogurt or apple cider vinegar for tang.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a non-dairy cream for the glaze. The recipe remains delicious.

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Roll Pull-Apart Sourdough is not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth, flavors, and memories. It brings the joy of baking fresh rolls right to your kitchen, creating a delightful center-point for your breakfast or dessert spread. With its blend of tangy sourdough, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy glaze, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and indulge in the art of baking. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below, and happy baking!