Why You’ll Love Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

The sourdough starter adds a subtle tang and extra fluffiness.
Rich cinnamon-sugar filling makes every bite deliciously sweet.
Cream cheese frosting melts into the warm rolls for irresistible texture.
Flexible schedule with make‑ahead options for dough or shaped rolls.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:
125 grams active sourdough starter
130 grams milk, room temperature
170 grams melted and cooled unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
500 grams all‑purpose or bread flour
2 Tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp fine sea salt

For the filling:
85 grams softened unsalted butter
142 grams packed light brown sugar
1 ½ Tbsp ground cinnamon

For the frosting:
56 grams softened unsalted butter
4 oz softened cream cheese
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
120 grams powdered sugar
Pinch of fine sea salt

Directions

Make the dough: In a mixer bowl, whisk together active sourdough starter and milk until smooth. Add cooled melted butter, vanilla, eggs, sugar, and salt; whisk to combine.
Add flour and knead: Attach dough hook and gradually add flour. Knead on medium speed for 8–10 minutes until soft, moist, and not sticky to the touch (or knead by hand 6–8 minutes).
Rest dough: Cover and let rest at room temperature 2 hours or refrigerate overnight (8–15 hours).
Shape: Let refrigerated dough sit 1–2 hours to soften. Roll into a 17×10‑inch rectangle on a floured surface. Butter the surface, sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
Cut and assemble: Cut into 12 strips, roll each into a tight spiral, and place in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Proof: Cover and let rolls proof in a warm place 2–3 hours until puffed.
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) and bake rolls 18–20 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Make frosting: While rolls bake, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth, add vanilla, powdered sugar, and salt, and beat until light and fluffy.
Frost and serve: Spread warm rolls with frosting and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 cinnamon rolls
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Cook time: ~20 minutes
Rest/proofing time: ~17 hours total (includes resting and rise times)
Total time: ~17 hours 40 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Mix raisins or dried cranberries into the filling for extra sweetness.
Swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.
Add orange zest to the dough or frosting for a citrus twist.
Use brown butter in the frosting for deeper, nutty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

What is a sourdough starter?

A sourdough starter is a fermented mix of flour and water containing natural yeast that helps dough rise.

Can I use all‑purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, both all‑purpose and bread flour work; bread flour yields a chewier texture.

Do I need to feed my sourdough starter before using it?

Yes, for best rise, use an active, freshly fed starter.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand.

What if my dough is sticky?

Add just enough flour to make it manageable and avoid adding too much to keep rolls soft.

How do I know when to stop proofing the rolls?

The rolls should look noticeably puffed and soft before baking.

Can I freeze the unbaked rolls?

Yes, you can freeze shaped rolls before proofing and bake later.

Can I make this recipe dairy‑free?

Yes; substitute plant‑based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese.

Why are my rolls dense?

They may need longer proofing or the dough might have been under‑kneaded.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Yes, you can sprinkle in nuts or raisins before rolling the dough.

Conclusion

These sourdough cinnamon rolls are a standout weekend treat that combines the tangy goodness of sourdough with classic cinnamon roll sweetness and creamy frosting. With options to make ahead and store easily, they’re perfect for sharing or savoring over several days.