There’s something magical about waking up to the comforting aroma of freshly baked Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls drifting through the house. The blend of warm spices, soft dough, and the unique tang of sourdough brings nostalgic charm to the holiday season. These sourdough cinnamon rolls recipes combine tradition with the slow, wholesome art of fermentation, creating a treat that’s both tender and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, these sweet sourdough rolls promise the perfect centerpiece for a cozy Christmas breakfast—one that fills your home with sweetness, warmth, and joyful memories shared around the table.
A Holiday Memory Wrapped in Dough
Every family has that one tradition that ushers in the joy of Christmas morning. For me, it’s the moment I slide a tray of Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls into the oven while the tree lights glow softly nearby. The air soon fills with the scent of cinnamon, butter, and caramelized sugar, awakening everyone before the first gift is unwrapped. These sweet sourdough rolls don’t just taste wonderful—they carry with them the warmth of every Christmas past.
I remember standing beside my grandmother as she shaped the dough, her hands dusted in flour from years of baking. Back then, her starter cinnamon rolls were made with the same trusty sourdough starter she’d been nurturing for decades. She used to say that the secret to the best rolls wasn’t in the butter or sugar, but in the love and patience that sourdough demands.
That slow fermentation, that quiet overnight rest—it was all part of the magic. The dough seemed alive, rising gently as the house settled into sleep, ready to deliver its comforting promise by morning. Now, as I prepare my own Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls, I feel that same connection—to her, to the season, and to the timeless comfort that only homemade baking can bring.
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Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls for a Cozy Holiday Treat
- Total Time: 12 hours
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Description
Wake up to the comforting aroma of freshly baked sourdough cinnamon rolls that blend warm spices, soft dough, and a subtle tang. These long fermented rolls are fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy Christmas breakfast tradition.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Feed starter 6–8 hours before mixing until bubbly and doubled
2. In a bowl combine starter, warm milk, melted butter, egg, and sugar
3. Add flour and salt and mix until a shaggy dough forms
4. Knead 5–8 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky
5. Cover and bulk ferment for 4–6 hours with hourly stretch and folds
6. Refrigerate dough overnight for 8–12 hours
7. Mix cinnamon filling by blending brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter
8. Roll chilled dough to a 12×16 inch rectangle
9. Spread filling evenly, leaving a 0.5 inch border
10. Roll dough into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces
11. Place rolls in a greased 9×13 inch pan
12. Proof at room temperature for 2–3 hours until puffy
13. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
14. Bake rolls 25 minutes until golden
15. Mix glaze by beating cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk
16. Drizzle glaze over warm rolls
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: breakfast
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
Keywords: christmas, sourdough, cinnamon rolls, holiday breakfast, sweet rolls, starter cinnamon rolls, sourdough for beginners
In every bite of these starter cinnamon rolls, you taste more than cinnamon and sugar; you taste family, history, and the cherished simplicity of slowing down during the busiest season of the year. That’s what makes these sweet sourdough rolls a holiday tradition worth keeping—and sharing.
Why Sourdough Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these rolls apart from the typical breakfast pastries is the magic of sourdough itself. While many cinnamon rolls rely on commercial yeast for quick rising, sourdough cinnamon rolls recipes use natural fermentation to build flavor slowly. This process gives the dough a delicate tang that perfectly complements its sweetness, creating a depth of flavor you can’t duplicate any other way.
The long fermentation also transforms the texture, making it softer, fluffier, and easier to digest—a true testament to why sourdough has captivated bakers for centuries. With its slightly tangy base and cloud-like crumb, these sweet sourdough rolls strike a delicious balance between rich and light, indulgent and wholesome.
Using a mature, bubbly starter enriches the dough with natural yeast and beneficial bacteria. This not only enhances flavor but also extends freshness, so your Christmas treats stay soft and tender long after they’re baked. For anyone looking for creative sourdough recipe ideas, this is one you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Whether you’ve been baking with a starter for years or you’re just beginning your sourdough journey, these Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect proof that the best things in life—just like good dough—take time to rise.
Essential Ingredients for Sweet Sourdough Rolls
The beauty of Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls lies in how simple ingredients transform through time and love. If you’re a fan of starter cinnamon rolls or you’re exploring sourdough for beginners, this list keeps it both classic and approachable. Below is a concise table featuring all you’ll need for the dough, filling, and glaze—along with handy substitution ideas for your pantry.
| Component | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Active sourdough starter (fed & bubbly) | 150g (about ¾ cup) | Use a strong, active long-fed starter for best rise |
| Whole milk (warm) | 240ml (1 cup) | Can use oat or almond milk for dairy-free version | |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 75g (⅓ cup) | Coconut oil also works for a slight tropical note | |
| Sugar | 60g (¼ cup) | Coconut sugar adds caramel depth | |
| All-purpose flour | 450g (3½ cups, plus extra) | Sub half with bread flour for chewier rolls | |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Balances sweetness | |
| Egg | 1 large | Add richness and softness | |
| Filling | Brown sugar | 100g (½ cup) | Coconut or muscovado sugar for deeper flavor |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 tbsp | Adjust for preferred spice level | |
| Softened butter | 75g (⅓ cup) | Essential for that luscious swirl | |
| Glaze | Cream cheese | 85g (3 oz, softened) | Omit for simple sugar glaze |
| Powdered sugar | 120g (1 cup) | Add more for thicker consistency | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Optional flavor boost | |
| Milk or cream | 1–2 tbsp | Adjust for desired drizzle texture |
Each ingredient contributes to texture and flavor—especially your sourdough starter. For sourdough for beginners, maintaining a healthy starter is easier than it sounds: feed it regularly, store it at room temperature on baking days, and keep it refrigerated when not in use. Those efforts pay off in the fluffy, aromatic layers of sweet sourdough rolls that make every bite worth the extra step.
Tools You’ll Need for Fluffy Holiday Rolls
Preparing sourdough cinnamon rolls recipes doesn’t require a chef’s arsenal—just a few reliable tools to help you work efficiently and keep the process stress-free. Here’s a practical list for both seasoned bakers and those trying sourdough for beginners for the first time.
- Mixing Bowls: Use two: one for wet and one for dry ingredients. Glass or stainless steel bowls retain temperature well for fermentation.
- Kitchen Scale: Vital for consistent ratios—especially in sourdough recipe ideas requiring precision.
- Dough Scraper: Perfect for handling sticky dough and shaping rolls without extra flour.
- Rolling Pin: Helps achieve an even rectangle; a clean wine bottle can substitute.
- Baking Pan (9×13-inch): Glass or ceramic produces golden, caramelized edges for Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls.
- Stand Mixer (Optional): Ideal for sourdough for beginners to master dough consistency.
- Digital Thermometer: Ensures ideal dough temperature (75–80°F) for even proofing.
- Parchment Paper & Plastic Wrap: Prevent sticking and preserve moisture during proofing.
Before baking, lightly butter your baking dish to encourage caramelization. For an extra treat, sprinkle brown sugar on the bottom—it creates a self-made sticky glaze once baked. With these tools, you’ll find that baking sourdough cinnamon rolls recipes becomes more than a task—it turns into a comforting holiday ritual fueled by warm aromas and anticipation.
Preparing and Fermenting the Dough
The secret to irresistibly soft and flavorful Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls lies in giving the dough time to develop deep flavor and structure through slow fermentation. Whether you’re experienced or just discovering sourdough cinnamon rolls recipes, patience defines perfection here.
Feed Your Starter: Refresh your long fermented sourdough starter 6–8 hours before mixing. Look for bubbles, doubling in size, and a slightly sweet aroma—it’s the sign of a strong culture ready to lift your dough.
Mix the Dough: Combine your starter, warm milk, melted butter, egg, and sugar in a large bowl. Gradually add flour and salt. Knead 5–8 minutes until elastic yet slightly tacky. This ensures those soft, pillow-like sweet sourdough rolls we crave.
Bulk Fermentation: Cover and rest at 75°F for 4–6 hours, folding gently each hour. The dough should become airy and nearly double in size. Then transfer it to the fridge overnight (8–12 hours) for a slow, cold ferment that deepens flavor and makes morning shaping effortless.
Filling, Rolling, and Baking the Perfect Christmas Morning Rolls
Prepare the Filling: Blend softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a smooth paste. Spread this fragrant mixture evenly over rolled-out dough to create the signature cinnamon spiral.
Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle, spread the filling, then roll it tightly. Slice into 10–12 even starter cinnamon rolls using dental floss or a sharp knife. Arrange in a greased pan with small gaps for expansion.
Final Proof: Let the rolls rest 2–3 hours until puffy and almost doubled. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden. Brush or drizzle with glaze while warm for that bakery-perfect shine. Cream cheese glaze adds richness, while simple sugar glaze keeps them light and classic.
With soft spirals, buttery sweetness, and gentle tang, these Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are everything comforting about the holidays—made with love and patience. The inviting scent promises joy long before the first bite, and one taste will make them a beloved centerpiece in your festive breakfast tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Can I make these sourdough cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes. After shaping your starter cinnamon rolls, refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature and let them finish proofing before baking for fresh, stress-free Christmas morning rolls.
What if my sourdough starter isn’t bubbly?
Feed it again and keep it warm. A lively long fermented sourdough starter ensures proper rise. For sourdough for beginners, a patience-first approach always delivers better texture and lift.
How long should the dough ferment?
Allow 4–6 hours for bulk fermentation plus 8–12 hours in the fridge. This slow rhythm develops the signature softness and tang of sweet sourdough rolls.
Can I freeze baked sourdough cinnamon rolls?
Yes. Freeze cooled rolls for up to two months. Rewarm briefly in the oven, then glaze just before serving to revive their freshly baked appeal.
Do these rolls taste sour?
No, they’re mildly tangy with balanced sweetness. The long ferment enriches flavor but doesn’t overpower, leaving the sweet sourdough rolls tasting soft, buttery, and perfectly festive.
A Cozy Conclusion to Your Christmas Morning Tradition
There’s something timeless about pulling a tray of Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls from the oven as the snow—or holiday sparkle—sets the mood. These homemade treasures personify warmth, patience, and family connection. Even for sourdough for beginners, the process is pure joy—a soothing pause amidst seasonal bustle that rewards you with heavenly aroma and a taste of tradition.
The fusion of tangy sourdough, cinnamon sweetness, and creamy glaze embodies everything cozy about the holidays. These sweet sourdough rolls make mornings feel slower, brighter, and filled with shared smiles at the breakfast table.
So, gather your ingredients, give your starter its feed, and let the dough rise overnight while dreams of cinnamon and sugar dance through the house. When morning comes, you’ll know those Christmas Morning Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are more than breakfast—they’re your family’s new tradition in the making, a tender gift of comfort and love baked right into every golden swirl.
