Why Make This Recipe
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites are the perfect solution for using up your sourdough discard. Not only do they taste delightful, but they are also quick and easy to make. These little bites are gooey, sweet, and a great treat for breakfast or dessert. Plus, they require minimal effort and make use of ingredients you likely already have on hand. Who wouldn’t want to whip up a batch of these irresistible treats?
How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, 100% hydration)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1/3 cup warm milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup softened butter (filling)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (filling)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (filling)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (filling)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (glaze)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (glaze)
- 1 tablespoon milk (glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (glaze)
Directions:
- Mix the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, melted butter, and warm milk to form a dough. Knead it lightly for 2–3 minutes. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle. Spread it with softened butter and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Roll the dough tightly and slice it into 1-inch pieces.
- Bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients. Drizzle over the warm bites and serve.

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites
These cinnamon roll bites are delightful when served warm. You can enjoy them as they are or pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread or a snack for your family and friends.
How to Store Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites
Store leftover bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just pop them in the oven or microwave to reheat before serving.
Tips to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites
- Be sure not to over-knead the dough; a light touch is key to achieving a soft texture.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as nuts or chocolate chips, to customize the flavors.
- If you want an even gooier center, add a little more butter to the filling.
Variation
You can try making these bites with different spices, such as nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. You can also use flavored cream cheese for the glaze to add a unique touch.
FAQs
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use an active sourdough starter, but it will alter the texture slightly. Reduce the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
Can I make these cinnamon roll bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling the night before, then roll and bake them in the morning for a fresh treat.
What can I do with extra glaze?
If you have extra glaze, you can use it to drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or other baked goods. It adds a nice sweet touch!

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Roll Bites
Ingredients
Method
- Mix the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, melted butter, and warm milk to form a dough. Knead it lightly for 2–3 minutes.
- Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle.
- Spread it with softened butter and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Roll the dough tightly and slice it into 1-inch pieces.
- Bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.
- Whisk together the glaze ingredients. Drizzle over the warm bites and serve.