These Sourdough Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls are warm and cozy, perfect for a chilly day! Made with delicious apple cider and a hint of cinnamon, they are sweet and soft.
Who can resist fresh cinnamon rolls? I love them warm from the oven, and they make my kitchen smell amazing! Just add a drizzle of icing for a sweet finishing touch! 🍏🥯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: Warm apple cider adds moisture and flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use apple juice, but it won’t be as rich in taste.
Sourdough Starter: An active sourdough starter is essential for flavor and rise. You can also make a quick version using plain yogurt or buttermilk for a different taste, but it won’t have the same depth as sourdough.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for this recipe. If you prefer whole wheat, you can substitute half of it for a nuttier flavor.
Apples: I recommend tart apples like Granny Smith for their flavor contrast. You can swap them for other varieties like Honeycrisp if you want a sweeter roll.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used in both the dough and filling. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well, but it changes the flavor a bit.
What’s the Best Way to Make Sure My Dough Rises Properly?
The dough’s rise is crucial for fluffy cinnamon rolls. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Use an active sourdough starter—check if it bubbles and doubles in size when fed.
- Keep the dough in a warm, draft-free area. An oven with the light on or a warm (not hot) spot in your kitchen works well.
- Be patient! Rising can take longer based on temperature and starter strength, so don’t rush it.
- If it hasn’t doubled in 6 hours, try letting it sit longer.
Give your dough all the time it needs, and you’ll end up with tender rolls that rise beautifully!
How to Make Sourdough Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider, warmed
- 1/2 cup (120 g) active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
- 3 1/2 cups (440 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
For The Filling:
- 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup finely diced tart apple (such as Granny Smith), peeled and cored
For The Glaze:
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2-3 tablespoons apple cider
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cinnamon roll recipe takes about 20 minutes for prep time, plus 6 to 8 hours for the dough to rise (depending on your starter’s activity). Baking takes an additional 25 to 30 minutes. Allow some time for cooling while you prepare the glaze. In total, you’ll need about 7-9 hours, perfect for making them overnight to bake fresh in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, mix the warm apple cider and sourdough starter together gently. Afterward, add in the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt, mixing well. Then whisk in the egg and melted butter until combined.
2. Add Flour:
Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, kneading it for about 8 to 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour until it’s manageable.
3. First Rise:
Grease a bowl lightly, place the dough inside, and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it sit in a warm and draft-free area until it has doubled in size, usually about 4 to 6 hours depending on how active your starter is.
4. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and softened butter in a small bowl until well combined. Fold in the diced apples gently. The filling is now ready!
5. Shape the Rolls:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle that is approximately 15×10 inches. Spread the apple filling evenly over the rectangle.
6. Roll Up the Dough:
Begin at one long edge and roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Once rolled, slice the log into 9 to 12 equal pieces. Place these slices cut side up into a greased baking dish with a little space in between each roll.
7. Second Rise:
Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 1.5 to 2 hours until they feel puffy. This step is essential for soft, fluffy rolls!
8. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
9. Make the Glaze:
As the rolls are baking, mix the powdered sugar, apple cider, and vanilla in a small bowl. Whisk it together until it is smooth and pourable.
10. Drizzle and Serve:
Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. Then, drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls. Serve them while they’re still warm, and enjoy the heavenly combination of sourdough, apple cider, and cinnamon!
These Sourdough Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful breakfast or snack, filled with cozy flavors and soft textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Can I Use Store-Bought Apple Cider Instead of Homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly in this recipe and provides the same delicious flavor. Just make sure it’s warmed before mixing with the sourdough starter!
Can I Make the Dough the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare the dough up to the first rise and place it in the fridge overnight instead of letting it rise at room temperature. In the morning, take it out, let it warm up for about 30 minutes, then continue with shaping and baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them, and they’ll keep well for about a month. Just thaw and reheat in the microwave or oven!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Rolls?
If you prefer a less sweet roll, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the filling. Alternatively, if you like it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more sugar to the dough or filling to suit your taste!
