Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
If you’re looking for a delightful pastry that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the sweet perfection of cinnamon rolls, look no further! Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts are a unique treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family. This novel recipe marries the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with the delightful fluffy texture of the sourdough bread, resulting in an irresistible baked good that is packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love Cinnabundts
1. A Unique Twist
Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls, these Mini Cinnabundts take advantage of sourdough starter, adding a tangy depth to the sweetness. Plus, the mini size makes them the perfect individual treat—no cutting required!
2. Brown Butter Goodness
Brown butter elevates the flavor profile of these cinnabundts, imparting a rich, nutty taste that perfectly complements the warm spices of cinnamon and sugar. The transformative process of browning brings out the butter’s inherent sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s for a cozy morning breakfast, a weekend brunch, or an afternoon tea, these Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts are wonderfully versatile. They can even be dressed up for special occasions or holidays.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- A pinch of salt
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the active sourdough starter, flour, milk, sugar, melted brown butter, salt, and egg until combined. If possible, use a stand mixer to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, softened butter, and a pinch of salt until it forms a paste-like consistency. This filling is what will make your Cinnabundts extra delicious!
3. Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface of the dough.
4. Form the Cinnabundts
Starting from one long side of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into small pieces, about 1-1.5 inches wide. Arrange these slices in a greased muffin tin, allowing space between each for expansion.
5. Second Rise
Cover the muffin tin with a kitchen towel and let the Cinnabundts rise again for about an hour, or until they have puffed up nicely.
6. Bake Them Up
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
7. Glaze (Optional)
While the Cinnabundts are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a simple glaze. Drizzle this over the warm treats for an added sweet touch.
Enjoying Your Mini Cinnabundts
Once your Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts are cool enough to handle, serve them fresh with a cup of coffee or tea. Their warm, gooey center paired with the crispy edges and the sweet glaze make for a magical experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
Conclusion
Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will elevate any gathering or breakfast. The use of sourdough adds a unique tanginess and an artisan touch, while the brown butter ensures a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist. Try making these charming treats at your next brunch or for an indulgent snack, and watch them disappear before your eyes! Happy baking!