Are you ready to take your cinnamon rolls to the next level? Forget those dry, store-bought disappointments! This recipe uses a sourdough starter to create incredibly soft, fluffy, and flavorful cinnamon rolls that are sure to become a family favorite. It’s easier than you think to make these delicious homemade treats, perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion. This recipe proves that healthy meals and delicious dishes can easily coexist!
Ingredients:
For the Sourdough Starter:
- 50g active sourdough starter (fed 4-6 hours prior)
- 50g lukewarm water
- 50g bread flour
For the Dough:
- All of the sourdough starter mixture
- 250g lukewarm milk (or water)
- 50g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 50g unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 500g bread flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Filling:
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 150g light brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 100g powdered sugar
- 2-4 tbsp milk or cream
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Making the Sourdough Starter (If needed):
If you don't have an active sourdough starter, this section will get you started. Combine 50g of your starter, 50g of lukewarm water, and 50g of bread flour in a small bowl. Mix well and cover. Let it sit at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size and bubbly. This is your activated starter, ready for the recipe.
Making the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the activated sourdough starter mixture, lukewarm milk, sugar, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until well combined.
- Add 500g of bread flour and salt. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Assembling the Cinnamon Rolls:
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by combining the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix well.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12x18 inches).
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
- Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled in size.
Baking and Glazing:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cinnamon rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before generously drizzling with the glaze.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg to the filling.
- You can use different types of sugar, such as maple sugar or coconut sugar, for a unique twist.
- If you don’t have a sourdough starter, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast. However, the flavour and texture will be different.
- Make these quick dinner ideas even faster by using pre-made pie crust instead of making dough from scratch. This is a great option for busy weeknights!
- These cinnamon rolls are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Information (per roll, approximate):
Calories: 350-400 Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 50-60g Protein: 5-7g
This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that yield impressive results. Enjoy your homemade, sourdough cinnamon rolls! They are a perfect way to enjoy homemade cooking and share delicious dishes with your loved ones. These best recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!