Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites are little pockets of sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness that you can make using sourdough starter discard. These bite-sized treats have a soft, pillowy dough rolled with cinnamon and sugar, then baked to golden perfection. They’re perfect when you want that classic cinnamon roll flavor but in a quick and fun little snack form.
I love making these because they turn something you might toss — sourdough discard — into a really tasty treat. It feels great to use up the starter and avoid waste, plus who doesn’t love the smell of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven? I usually whip up a batch when I’m craving something sweet but don’t want to commit to a whole tray of rolls.
These bites are amazing on their own or with a drizzle of icing, and I often serve them warm right out of the oven. They’re perfect for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a little party appetizer that everyone can grab and enjoy. I always say, good things come in small, delicious packages!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough discard: This is the base of your dough, giving a slight tang and waste-free baking. You can use either unfed discard or fed starter — just reduce yeast slightly if using fed starter.
Instant yeast: Helps the dough rise faster since discard alone won’t rise much. If you don’t have instant yeast, active dry yeast works too—just proof it first in warm milk.
Milk: Warm milk softens the dough and adds richness. You can swap it with any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Butter: Butter keeps the dough tender and flavorful. Melted butter goes in the dough, while softened butter is used in the filling. You can substitute with vegan butter or oil if needed.
Cinnamon and brown sugar: These give the classic cinnamon roll flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
Powdered sugar glaze: Simple and quick, just mix with a splash of milk and vanilla. For a healthier option, you could drizzle honey or maple syrup instead.
How Do You Get Tender, Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Bites with Sourdough Discard?
Because sourdough discard lacks the strength of mature starter, the dough needs some yeast and gentle kneading.
- Start by mixing the discard with yeast and warm milk to activate the yeast and hydrate the dough.
- Knead gently but don’t overwork the dough; a few minutes until smooth is enough to develop some gluten.
- Let it rest in a warm spot to puff up — it may not double, but it should look slightly airy.
- Roll the dough evenly, spread butter and cinnamon sugar, then roll tightly to create layers and keep bites soft.
- After slicing, let the rolls rise again briefly; this helps the texture become fluffy instead of dense.
- Bake until golden brown and let them cool a bit before glazing — warm bites hold the glaze beautifully.
With these steps, the bites will be tender, light, and packed with cinnamon flavor every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to mix and let the dough rise comfortably.
- Whisk or spoon – handy for mixing the yeast with milk and starter.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll out the dough evenly into a rectangle.
- Sharp knife or dental floss – great for slicing the rolled dough into clean, even bites.
- Small round cake pan or baking dish – holds the bite-sized rolls close for soft sides.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice to add a warm, autumn touch.
- Stir in mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon sugar for a sweet surprise inside.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch and extra flavor.
- Use cream cheese glaze instead of simple powdered sugar icing for a richer finish.
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes total. Around 15 minutes for prep, 1 hour for the first dough rest, 30 minutes for the second rise after shaping, and about 20-25 minutes to bake. Plus a few minutes to make the glaze and drizzle it on.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add Remaining Dough Ingredients:
Add the all-purpose flour, melted butter, and salt to the bowl. Stir well until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead and Rest the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a towel and let it rest in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until slightly puffy.
4. Roll and Fill:
Roll the dough into a rectangle roughly 12 x 9 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture all over the buttered dough.
5. Shape and Slice:
Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log into approximately 8 bite-sized rounds.
6. Second Rise:
Line a small round baking pan with parchment paper. Place the cinnamon roll bites close together inside. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Prepare the Glaze:
While baking, mix powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk or cream until smooth and pourable.
9. Finish and Serve:
Let the cinnamon roll bites cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze on top and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious, tender cinnamon roll bites!
Can I Use Fed Sourdough Starter Instead of Discard?
Yes, you can use fed sourdough starter, but reduce or omit the added yeast since fed starter has more active yeast. Keep an eye on rising times as the dough may puff up faster.
Can I Make These Cinnamon Roll Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the roll bites, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cinnamon roll bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
What Can I Use as a Substitute for Butter?
You can swap butter with coconut oil, vegan margarine, or any neutral oil in both the dough and filling for dairy-free or vegan options. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.