Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
If you have some extra sourdough discard sitting in the fridge and wonder how to turn it into something utterly delightful, this Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe is exactly what you need. These little knots are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet with a cinnamon sugar coating that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Using simple pantry staples and sourdough discard, this recipe transforms what might feel like waste into a treat that everyone will ask for again and again. Whether for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy coffee break, these cinnamon sugar knots are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for achieving that soft texture, sweet cinnamon flavor, and golden-brown color that make these knots so irresistible.
- Sourdough discard (1 1/2 cups): This unfed discard is the star, adding a subtle tang and moisture to the dough.
- Sugar (1/4 cup plus 1/2 cup): Divided for sweetness in the dough and the cinnamon sugar coating to add crunch and flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides structure to the dough, giving it the perfect tender chewiness.
- Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of lift ensuring your knots are light, not dense.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden finish.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Packed into the sugar mixture for that classic warm spice flavor.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your knots bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir these together until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. This simple mixture comes to life thanks to the discard’s tang and the balance of ingredients that create structure and sweetness.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. This thickness is just right for forming soft, tender knots that aren’t too dense or too fragile to handle.
Step 4: Butter and Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough surface. In a small bowl, mix the 1/2 cup sugar with the ground cinnamon. Sprinkle half of this cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered dough, infusing it with sweetness and that irresistible cinnamon aroma.
Step 5: Shape the Knots
Slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip, twist it gently, and then tie it into a loose knot. The twisting and knotting create lovely layers inside each bite. Place these on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake the knots in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they should turn a gorgeous golden brown, signaling that they are perfectly baked with just the right amount of chew.
Step 7: Final Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the knots are still warm, toss them in the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. This final coating adds a delightful crunch and extra cinnamon sweetness that makes your knots irresistible.
Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy
These knots are absolute magic when served fresh and warm, with the buttery cinnamon sugar still slightly melty. Grab one with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy every cozy bite!
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can elevate the cinnamon sugar knots even more. Toasted nuts like pecans or sliced almonds sprinkled on top add crunch and a nutty contrast that pairs beautifully with the soft dough.
Side Dishes
These knots shine paired with creamy spreads such as honey butter, cream cheese frosting, or a small bowl of warm fruit compote. They also make a fantastic complement to a steaming bowl of chili or a smoothie bowl for a sweet-savory brunch vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your cinnamon sugar knots in a circular wreath shape on a serving plate for an eye-catching centerpiece perfect for gatherings. Wrap individual knots in parchment and tie them with twine as thoughtful homemade gifts or party favors. For a fun twist, serve them alongside small dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though quite unlikely!), keep them stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They will maintain their softness and flavor if kept sealed and cool.
Freezing
You can freeze the cinnamon sugar knots by placing them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag in a single layer. Freeze for up to one month. To enjoy later, thaw them at room temperature and reheat for best texture.
Reheating
Warm your knots in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F for about 5–7 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving as it can make them a bit soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fed sourdough starter instead of discard?
While fed starter is more active and bubbly, using unfed discard as in this recipe provides the right balance of moisture and mild tang, making it the best choice for these knots.
Do the knots taste very sour because of the discard?
These cinnamon sugar knots have just a subtle tang from the sourdough discard, which nicely complements the sweetness rather than overpowering it, creating a balanced flavor.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but expect a denser texture and nuttier flavor. You might want to slightly increase the moisture to keep the dough soft.
How do I know when the knots are done baking?
Watch for a golden brown color on the knots’ surface. They should spring back slightly when touched gently and smell wonderfully fragrant. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure any sugar used is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
Final Thoughts
Making this Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe is a delightful way to turn leftover sourdough discard into a batch of sweet, tender treats that impress with every bite. They are quick, simple, and bursting with warm cinnamon flavor that feels like homemade comfort food at its best. I encourage you to dive in and enjoy the whole process from twisting the dough to that first warm, sugary bite — you won’t regret it!
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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 knots 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots are a delightful way to use sourdough discard, creating soft, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced treats. Perfect as a breakfast pastry or an afternoon snack, these knots feature a tender dough coated in a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 1/2 cups sourdough discard (unfed)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Additional ground cinnamon (included in 1 tsp combined with sugar above)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, 1/4 cup sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix together until a soft dough forms that is slightly sticky but manageable.
- Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick, ensuring even thickness for consistent baking.
- Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Brush the melted butter evenly over the rolled-out dough. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then sprinkle about half of it evenly over the buttered surface.
- Shape into Knots: Slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip, twist it, and tie it into a loose knot. Place the knots spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Knots: Bake the knots in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color and are cooked through.
- Final Coating: While the knots are still warm, toss them in the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture to coat thoroughly, adding extra sweetness and crunch.
- Serve: Serve the cinnamon sugar knots warm for the best flavor experience. Enjoy as a sweet snack or breakfast treat!
Notes
- You can store the knots in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven for a fresh-baked taste.
- For a vegan version, replace butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Use unfed sourdough discard to prevent the dough from becoming too sour.
- Try adding chopped nuts or raisins to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Make sure not to overbake to keep the knots soft and tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
