Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
If you ever wondered how to turn your sourdough discard into something irresistibly delicious, look no further than this Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe. These sweet, tender little knots are the perfect way to give your leftover sourdough discard a second life, transforming it into a treat that’s soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just love fun kitchen projects, these knots are simple to make and absolutely addictive to eat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a vital role in creating the delightful texture and flavor that make these cinnamon sugar knots so special.
- 1 1/2 cups sourdough discard (unfed): This is the magic base that gives the knots a slight tang and tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tang of the sourdough.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The structural backbone that holds everything together.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Helps create a light, airy texture in the knots.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds rich moisture and helps the cinnamon sugar stick gloriously.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides that iconic warm, spicy note we all crave in cinnamon-sugar treats.
- 1/2 cup sugar (for cinnamon-sugar coating): Combined with cinnamon to create a perfectly sweet, crunchy finish.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your knots bake evenly and won’t stick, giving you a clean release and perfect golden bottoms.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until a soft dough forms—this dough is wonderfully pliable, thanks to the sourdough discard, which adds a subtle tang and softness you won’t find in ordinary doughs.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Dust your work surface with a bit of flour and roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. This uniform thickness helps the knots bake evenly and develop a light, tender texture.
Step 4: Brush with Butter and Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
Brush the melted butter over the entire dough surface, which not only adds moisture but also helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick beautifully. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle about half of this mixture evenly over the buttered dough for that first layer of sweet and spicy goodness.
Step 5: Shape into Knots
Slice the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Then twist each strip and tie it into a loose knot. This shaping is part of the fun and creates those charming little pockets that hold the cinnamon sugar in every bite. Place each knot on your prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart to allow them to puff gently.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the knots in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is downright unbeatable and will have you counting down the minutes.
Step 7: Give Them a Final Cinnamon Sugar Coat
While the knots are still warm, toss them in the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture. This last step adds a delightful crunchy texture and a burst of flavor right when you bite in, making these knots totally irresistible.
Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy!
There’s nothing quite like enjoying these cinnamon sugar knots fresh from the oven, warm and gooey. Prepare yourself for smiles all around!
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
Garnishes
While these knots are delicious on their own, adding a simple drizzle of vanilla glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can take them up a notch. Freshly chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
Side Dishes
These knots pair wonderfully with warm beverages such as coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa. They make a fantastic accompaniment to a lazy weekend brunch alongside fresh fruit or creamy yogurt.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the knots in a wreath shape on a serving platter for a festive look or stack them in a rustic basket lined with a colorful cloth for a cozy vibe. You can even serve them alongside a small bowl of mascarpone or cream cheese for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for about 2 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or an indulgent breakfast the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cinnamon sugar knots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can keep well for up to 3 months and retain their flavor and texture beautifully.
Reheating
To enjoy your knots like freshly made, reheat them in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This method restores their crispness outside while warming the inside, reviving that fresh-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use sourdough starter instead of discard for this recipe?
It’s best to use unfed sourdough discard for this recipe because it has a milder flavor and consistency ideal for baked goods. Using an active starter might affect the dough’s texture and rise time.
Is it necessary to use baking soda in the dough?
Yes, baking soda helps neutralize the acidity in the sourdough discard, allowing the dough to rise better and resulting in a lighter, more tender knot.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative, like vegan butter or coconut oil. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.
How long do the cinnamon sugar knots last once baked?
They’re best enjoyed within 2 days when stored at room temperature. After that, they may start to dry out, but reheating can bring back some freshness.
Can I add other spices to the cinnamon sugar mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of cloves for a spiced twist that will elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe inspires you to make the most of your sourdough discard in the most joyful way possible. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of warm, cinnamon-kissed knots that bring comfort and happiness to any day. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a beloved staple in your baking rotation.
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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Delight in these sweet and soft Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Knots, perfect for using up your sourdough starter discard. Rolled in cinnamon sugar and baked to golden perfection, these knots make a wonderful breakfast treat or snack.
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
Topping Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup sugar (for cinnamon-sugar coating)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the knots.
- Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir together until a soft dough forms that is workable but not sticky.
- Roll the dough: Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out into a rectangle approximately 1/4-inch thick, creating an even surface for shaping.
- Brush with butter & cinnamon sugar: Using a pastry brush, spread the melted butter evenly over the dough. In a small bowl, mix the remaining sugar with ground cinnamon, then sprinkle half of this cinnamon sugar mixture all over the buttered dough.
- Shape into knots: Cut the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip, twist it and then tie it loosely into a knot. Arrange the knots spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the knots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the knots turn a beautiful golden brown color.
- Final cinnamon sugar coating: As soon as the knots come out of the oven and are still warm, toss them in the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your cinnamon sugar knots warm for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy this sweet treat fresh as a snack or breakfast addition.
Notes
- Make sure your sourdough discard is unfed and does not include added ingredients to avoid affecting dough texture.
- If the dough is too sticky to roll, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- These knots are best eaten within a day or two; store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- For a vegan option, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American