If you have ever wondered what to do with that extra bit of sourdough discard lying around, the Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe is here to save your baking day. These delightful little knots combine the tangy charm of sourdough with the warm sweetness of cinnamon sugar, creating a perfect treat that’s soft, tender, and utterly irresistible. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms what might seem like a kitchen scrap into a comforting snack everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or dessert, these cinnamon sugar knots will quickly become a treasured favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be surprised how a handful of basic pantry staples can come together to create such a comforting treat. Each ingredient plays a distinct role in the Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe, from lending structure and texture to adding rich flavor and sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups sourdough discard (unfed): This tangy base adds moisture and depth of flavor without the need for yeast.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Balances the sour notes and aids in browning.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure necessary for soft, yet sturdy knots.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Gives a gentle lift to lighten the dough.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor, cutting through the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warm spice that makes these knots absolutely addictive.
- 1/2 cup sugar (for cinnamon-sugar coating): Provides that crunchy, sweet finish that everyone loves.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures a non-stick surface and easy cleanup, helping your knots bake evenly without sticking or burning.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Mix the sourdough discard, sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl until they form a soft dough. The beauty of this step is how simple it is—no fussing with yeast or proofing times. The sourdough discard brings a subtle tang and moisture, creating a dough that’s soft and easy to handle.
Step 3: Roll It Out
Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Getting the thickness just right is key here—it keeps the knots tender but still substantial enough to hold their shape through baking.
Step 4: Brush with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Brush the melted butter evenly over the surface of the rolled dough. Next, mix the remaining sugar with the cinnamon and sprinkle half of this aromatic blend over the buttered dough. This step coats your knots with the sweet and spicy flavors they need to shine.
Step 5: Shape Into Knots
Slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips, then take each strip and twist it into a loose knot. Placing them on your prepared baking sheet with enough space ensures they bake evenly and develop that perfect golden crust.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake your knots for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The scent that fills your kitchen at this point is simply irresistible and really builds anticipation for the first bite.
Step 7: The Final Cinnamon Sugar Coat
While the knots are still warm, toss them in the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. This final touch adds a delightful crunch and amplifies the sweet and spicy notes for maximum flavor impact.
Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy
These knots are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but they also hold up beautifully if you want to save some for later. Their soft interior and sugary crust meld perfectly in every bite — trust me, you won’t want to stop at just one!
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
Garnishes
While these cinnamon sugar knots stand wonderfully on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm honey can elevate them to a stunning treat. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a tiny pat of butter can add a deliciously rich and textural contrast as well.
Side Dishes
Pair your knots with a cozy cup of coffee or chai tea to balance the sweetness. For brunch, they make a fantastic companion to scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad, turning your meal into a complete experience filled with flavor and comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the knots in a rustic basket lined with a kitchen towel for a charming breakfast display. Alternatively, halve them and add cream cheese or jam for a fun twist. They also make adorable finger foods for gatherings — everyone will love grabbing a warm, spicy knot!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your cinnamon sugar knots in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain fresh and soft for up to two days, making them perfect for enjoying fresh over a couple of days.
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, these knots freeze beautifully. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to two months, so you can enjoy that homemade goodness anytime.
Reheating
To bring your frozen or stored knots back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes. This revives the crisp edges and soft insides, making every bite taste freshly baked once again.
FAQs
What is sourdough discard, and why use it in this recipe?
Sourdough discard is the portion of sourdough starter you remove when feeding it to maintain a healthy culture. Instead of wasting it, this recipe uses the discard to add tangy flavor and moisture, turning what might be waste into a delicious treat.
Can I use fed sourdough starter instead of discard?
Fed sourdough starter contains active yeast and is more bubbly. While you can use it, the texture and rise might differ slightly. This recipe is designed to work best with unfed discard for simplicity and consistent results.
Is it necessary to preheat the oven to 350°F?
Yes, preheating ensures even baking and proper rising. Starting with a hot oven helps your cinnamon sugar knots develop that gorgeous golden color and perfect texture.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?
You can, but whole wheat flour will make the knots denser and slightly coarser in texture. If you prefer, try a half-and-half blend to keep some softness while adding nuttier flavor and extra fiber.
How do I store leftover cinnamon sugar knots without them getting soggy?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, but avoid sealing them while still warm to prevent condensation. If you notice they get soft, reheating in the oven helps restore their delightful texture.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend the Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a little sweetness and comfort to their kitchen routine. It’s a clever, delicious way to give your sourdough discard a starring role and enjoy a treat that feels both rustic and special. Whether served fresh from the oven or warmed up later, these knots are sure to bring smiles to your table and make you fall in love with baking all over again. Go ahead and give them a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these soft and flavorful Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots, a perfect way to use sourdough discard. Coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend and baked to golden perfection, these knots are an irresistible treat for breakfast or any time of the day.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 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 (for cinnamon-sugar coating)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until a soft dough forms, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- Roll it out: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick, providing the right thickness to form delicate knots.
- Brush with butter & cinnamon sugar: Using a pastry brush, spread melted unsalted butter evenly over the dough. In a separate small bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, then sprinkle half of this cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
- Shape into knots: Cut the dough into 1-inch-wide strips. Take each strip, twist it gently, and tie it into a loose knot. Arrange the knots on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for expansion.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the knots for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown color.
- Final coat: While the knots are still warm, toss them in the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating them evenly for added sweetness and crunch.
- Serve: Serve the cinnamon sugar knots warm and enjoy their soft, sweet, and fragrant flavors fresh from the oven.
Notes
- Use unfed sourdough discard for best texture and mild flavor.
- If you prefer, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon sugar for extra spice.
- The knots are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to regain softness.
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it gluten free.
