Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bites

These sourdough discard cinnamon roll bites came to life on a busy Saturday morning when I craved something sweet yet wanted to use up my discard. This recipe transforms leftover sourdough starter into ooey gooey treats swirled with cinnamon goodness and finished with a tangy cream cheese glaze. They come together fast and are simple enough for any day of the week but have all the flavor and nostalgia of their bigger fussier cousins.

These bites instantly became a weekend staple after the first batch disappeared in minutes. My kids ask for them whenever they see me feeding my starter.

Ingredients

• Sourdough discard: Succulently moistens the dough and gives a subtle tang. Opt for fresh unfed discard for best rise
• All purpose flour: Offers reliable structure. Choose a good quality unbleached variety for a tender bite
• Sugar: Brings sweetness. Fine white sugar dissolves more evenly but cane sugar works too
• Salt: Heightens all the flavors. Use fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Baking powder: Creates lift and fluffiness without waiting for yeast. Grab a fresh can for guaranteed rise
• Melted butter or coconut oil: Adds richness. I love using grass fed butter but coconut oil keeps it dairy free
• Warm milk: Keeps the dough supple. Either dairy or unsweetened plant milk will do
• Softened butter for filling: Ensures the cinnamon swirl stays moist. Let it sit at room temperature for easy spreading
• Brown sugar: Imparts caramel notes to the filling. Use soft brown sugar for the best melt and flavor
• Ground cinnamon: Essential for warmth and coziness. Choose fresh and aromatic cinnamon
• Vanilla extract: Ties the filling together
• Cream cheese for glaze: Should be softened for smooth blending. Full fat gives the best result
• Powdered sugar: Gives a silky finish. Sift for lump free glaze
• A dash of milk: Thins the glaze to the right consistency
• Vanilla extract in the glaze: Echoes the filling and brightens flavor

Instructions

Mix sourdough discard dough:

Combine sourdough discard with flour sugar salt and baking powder in a large mixing bowl. Mix briefly then pour in melted butter and warm milk. With a sturdy spoon stir until dough comes together then knead on a lightly floured surface for about two to three minutes just until smooth. Avoid over kneading. Cover and rest dough for thirty minutes to relax and hydrate the flour

Prepare the filling:

While dough rests soften the butter if needed. When ready roll the dough out on a well floured surface to a rectangle. Spread the dough with butter corner to corner. Evenly sprinkle on brown sugar cinnamon and vanilla so every bite will be swirled with flavor

Shape and cut the bites:

With gentle hands roll the dough up tightly from the long side to form a log. Pinch the seam closed. Slice into one inch thick pieces using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts

Bake or air fry:

Preheat your oven to 375 F or your air fryer to 350 F. Arrange the pieces cut side up on a lined baking sheet or in your air fryer basket with space between them. Bake for eighteen to twenty minutes in the oven or ten to twelve in the air fryer until golden brown and cooked through

Make and apply glaze:

Beat together softened cream cheese powdered sugar milk and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spoon or drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon roll bites so it seeps into all the nooks. Serve warm for the best experience

My favorite part is swirling the cinnamon filling into the soft dough and knowing I am saving my precious starter from the compost. The first time my daughter helped me roll these up she was so delighted by all the buttery sugar. We now call them mini cinnamon hugs.

Storage tips

Store cooled bites in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. For longer storage refrigerate and warm them gently before eating so the glaze softens and the flavors bloom. You can freeze unglazed bites and zap them in the microwave for a nearly fresh batch anytime.

Ingredient substitutions

For dairy free swaps use vegan butter and plant milk in both dough and glaze. Bump up the filling with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch or add diced apple for autumn flavor. If you only have self rising flour skip the baking powder and salt.

Serving suggestions

Dish these out at brunches late night snacks or lunchbox surprises. Pile them high on a platter and let everyone drizzle their own glaze. For a festive slant dust with extra cinnamon or serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cultural or historical context

Sourdough’s roots stretch back thousands of years as a frugal way to bake with minimal waste. Using discard in sweet bakes is a modern twist that gives new life to traditional baking routines. These mini rolls capture the spirit of making do and creating joy from simple kitchen scraps.

Seasonal adaptations

Use pumpkin spice in place of cinnamon for fall warmth. Fold in citrus zest to the filling for a summery lift. Swap half the flour for whole wheat for extra heartiness. Try pressing the bites into muffin tins for cute pull apart portions.

Success stories

My neighbor borrowed this recipe for a holiday potluck and shared they vanished before dessert was served. Several friends have told me these are their favorite way to use extra starter. The combo of tangy and sweet is absolutely legendary for Sunday mornings.

Freezer meal conversion

Let baked bites cool fully and skip the glaze. Freeze flat in a sealed container then thaw at room temp and heat up gently. Whip up a fresh glaze and pour over before serving for bakery soft results even weeks later.

Try these cinnamon roll bites and you will not want to toss your sourdough discard ever again. Each bite is pure cozy bliss and perfect for sharing.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use another type of flour?

All-purpose flour provides the softest texture, but bread flour can add a chewier bite. Just adjust liquid as needed.

→ How do I make these dairy-free?

Swap butter for vegan alternatives and use plant-based milk for both the dough and glaze. The result stays soft and flavorful.

→ Can I bake without an air fryer?

Absolutely! Bake in a conventional oven at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, watching for a golden brown color.

→ What mix-ins work well?

Chopped nuts, raisins, or small apple pieces add great texture and flavor to the cinnamon filling.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep bites in an airtight container at room temperature. Gently reheat for the softest texture before serving.