Delight in the Fusion: Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls made with Sourdough Starter

When the comforting warmth of a cinnamon roll meets the spicy, moist sweetness of carrot cake, you have a culinary delight that promises to warm the heart. Introducing these yummy Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls made with Sourdough Starter. This is a sweet treat for your senses that's not just delicious but also deeply satisfying on a gourmet level. Imagine the blend of biting into a sweet, tangy cinnamon roll swirl infused with the allure of carrot cake spices, all brought together by the unique characteristics of a sourdough starter. This blog post will guide you through the instructions for baking this delectable treat. Trust me when i say, this is one that's sure to earn its stripes as a staple in your baking repertoire.

To prepare these Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls with Sourdough Starter, you'll need to obviously start with an active sourdough starter. This natural leavening agent is the soul of the rolls, providing them with not just their lift but also their unique tangy flavor profile. Before you begin mixing your dough, make sure your sourdough starter is ready to perform. Its lively bubbles and pleasant sour aroma will be your cues that it's primed to leaven the dough beautifully.

Tips To Making The Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

1.Let your sourdough starter sit at room temperature until it shows active fermentation.

2. Grate fresh carrots finely to integrate well into the dough without excess moisture.

3. Be generous with the cinnamon and sugar for that unmistakable carrot cake aroma.

4. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a slight border to seal the dough.

5. Roll the dough tightly to maintain the shape and integrity of the rolls.

Once you've crafted your rolls, let them rise until they're puffy, and after baking, you'll have golden-brown spirals wafting irresistible scents through your kitchen and breakfast table.

What is Sourdough Starter, and why is it used in making Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls?

A sourdough starter is a treasure in the world of artisan baking, a culture of natural yeast and bacteria that creates a leavening agent far more flavorful than any commercial yeast could offer. Employing sourdough starter in Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls not only imparts a distinctively tangy taste that complements the sweeter notes of the rolls; it also promises a texture that's light and pleasingly chewy—a delight for the palate and the gut. This treat is truly a complex taste profile, marrying tanginess with the sweetness of carrot and spice. The starter also enhances and improves the texture, making for lighter and more digestible cinnamon rolls. Nutritional benefits like enhanced mineral absorption and possibly a lower glycemic index are also welcoming.

Can I use a store-bought Sourdough Starter for these rolls, or do I need to make my own?

Whether you opt for a store-bought sourdough starter or decide to cultivate your own, each choice comes with its unique flavors and merits. Store-bought starter can save time and offer consistency; however, a homemade variation might present a more rewarding baking journey, rich in deep flavors developed over time. Use a store-bought starter for convenience and consistency. Use a homemade starter for a hands-on experience and depth of flavor. Personal preference and experience dictate the starter choice. Either way, and active and bubbly starter is required for a successful rise and flavor.

How does the flavor of Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls differ from traditional cinnamon rolls?

Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls brings a basket of flavors vastly different from the traditional cinnamon roll, each bite whisking you away to an orchard of taste nuances. In these rolls, carrots introduce a mellow sweetness, while a rich spice blend elevates the flavor much beyond what regular cinnamon rolls offer. Folding in ingredients like shredded carrots or nuts, and the texture becomes as varied as the flavors themselves—with the sourdough starter adding a tangy baseline that accentuates the other ingredients. The rolls offer the perfect flavor distinctions of a unique sweetness from carrots, and a complex spice blend for a deep flavor profile. Once again, the flavors are brought together by the tanginess from the sourdough starter enhancing the overall sweetness.

Enjoy the adventure of baking these Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls with Sourdough Starter and share the delight with friends and family who'll marvel at your culinary prowess. With this guide, you have all you need to create rolls that are as nutritious as they are delicious. This breakfast treat is a true testament to the magic of sourdough baking and the everlasting charm of these beautiful delicious carrot cake cinnamon rolls made with sourdough starter.

Ingredients

8 tablespoons cold butter

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup active sourdough starter

1 cup whole milk

2 tablespoon honey 

1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

1 cup shredded carrots

1 teaspoon baking powder (added in the next morning)

½ teaspoon baking soda (added in the next morning)

Filling

1/2 cup melted butter

1/2 cup sugar

2 tablespoons cinnamon

Frosting

8 oz cream cheese

1/2 cup butter

4 cups powdered sugar

4 tbsp milk

2 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. In a large bowl grate butter & mix together with flour. Make sure butter pieces are mixed in well no larger then a pea size.

2. Add in active sourdough, milk, honey, sea salt & grated carrots. Mix together until blended well. Cover with a clean dish towel and set aside overnight or for at least 10 hours.

3. The next morning, or once risen, add in baking soda & powder. Turn oven to 375 degrees. Mix together filling ingredients & set aside. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread filling mixture all over rolled dough.

4. Roll up from the largest side to the other making a log shape. Cut into 12 cinnamon rolls. Add into a large pan, My bake & roast pan from 360 cookware is the perfect size, linked below.

5. Bake in the oven center rack for 30-35 minutes. While its baking make frosting. Blend together softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, & vanilla extract in a bowl.

6. Once cinnamon rolls are done add frosting on top and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top. Serve & Enjoy!!

Other Cinnamon Roll & Pastry Recipes:

Sweet Perfection: Baking the Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze

Sweet Serenity: Mastering the Art of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting

An Irresistible Treat: The Delicious Berry Custard Puff Pastry Tart

Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Blueberry Scones

A Sweet and Delicious Recipe for Lemon Poppyseed Bread

Indulge in Delicious Personal Pear Tarts

Sweet Serenity: Mastering the Art of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing

Welcome to another delicious recipe post! As the leaves start to crinkle and colors change, there's almost nothing more iconic of the coming Autumn season than pumpkin-flavored delicacies. Today, we are going to add a twist to one of your favorite traditional breakfast treats. We're going places where the savory pumpkin harmonically frolics with the spicy warmth of cinnamon, all under the creamy, velvety robe of cream cheese icing. So, buckle up for the ultimate guide to making heavenly Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing - a scrumptious indulgence that brings the best of fall flavors to your morning table!

Which yeast is best for cinnamon rolls + how to know when yeast is activated

The key to success is using the right type of yeast. Active dry yeast is the best choice for this recipe. To ensure that the yeast is activated, look for bubbles forming on the surface of the mixture. You will pre-check this after adding the yeast to water in this recipe. Once the yeast is activated, the mixture will expand and become foamy. If your mixture does not foam, the yeast may be old or not activated properly. To avoid disappointment, always check the expiration date on your yeast package before using it. With the right yeast and a few simple steps, you can enjoy delicious pumpkin cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing in no time.

Making Ahead, Storing, and Freezing Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls:

These pumpkin cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing are the perfect treat for any chilly Autumn morning. Plus, with the make-ahead and storing options, you can enjoy these sweet treats any day of the week. To make these pumpkin cinnamon rolls easy, you can prepare them up to a day ahead of time. Simply assemble the rolls and refrigerate them in their pan overnight. The next morning, bake them as directed and enjoy. If you have any leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For those who like to plan ahead, you can also freeze these pumpkin cinnamon rolls for up to 3 months. Allow the rolls to cool completely before freezing. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. If you want to freeze the rolls for later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Are there any variations available for Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing recipe?

Pumpkin cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Fall. This sweet treat is packed with all the flavors of Autumn. With a few variations, you can take these pumpkin cinnamon rolls to the next level.

Variation 1: Add your favorite spices such as nutmeg, allspice, and cinnamon to the dough for a more spicy flavor. This will amp up the flavor of the rolls and give them a unique twist.

Variation 2: Use pumpkin puree instead of regular milk for a richer and denser texture. The pumpkin puree will add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the rolls.

Variation 3: Swap out the cream cheese icing for pumpkin cream cheese icing for an extra-special treat by adding in pumpkin puree again. The pumpkin cream cheese icing adds a unique flavor and pairs perfectly with the pumpkin cinnamon rolls. You can also add maple to the cream cheese frosting to make a maple cream cheese for an even more unique flavor.

Variation 4: Top the rolls with a streusel topping for a crunchy addition. The streusel topping adds texture and a slight sweetness to the rolls.

Variation 5: Add dried cranberries or chunks of chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. The dried cranberries or raisins add a hint of sweetness and texture to the rolls.

Variation 6: Substitute the granulated sugar for light brown or dark bown sugar for a deeper flavor. The light brown sugar adds a deep molasses flavor to the rolls and makes them even more delicious.

These variations make pumpkin cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing a delicious and unique treat. With these variations, you can enjoy the flavors of Fall deliciously and uniquely.

Can the Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls be made without Cream Cheese Icing?

If you're looking for a delicious Fall treat, look no further than these Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls! These delicious rolls are made with pumpkin puree and are spiced with cinnamon, making them the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season. But what if you don't want to use cream cheese icing? Can these rolls still be made without the icing? The answer is yes! To make the rolls without the cream cheese icing, simply omit the cream cheese and icing ingredients from the recipe. You can still enjoy a delicious treat without the cream cheese icing by adding a bit of cinnamon and sugar to the top of the rolls or even some melted butter for a delicious glaze. You can also serve the cream cheese frosting on the side for an option to guests. These Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season. With or without the cream cheese icing, these delicious rolls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

Dough

4 1/2 tsp fact-acting dry yeast

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter

1 egg

1 tsp salt

4 cups flour

1/4 cup warm water

1 cup milk

1 tsp pumpkin spice

Filling

1/2 cup melted butter

1/2 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 cup sugar

2 tbsp cinnamon

Icing

8 oz cream cheese

1/2 cup butter

4 cups powdered sugar

4 tbsp milk

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp pumpkin spice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Mix lukewarm water and yeast, and let sit for around 10 minutes to make sure the yeast is still active. You will notice the yeast growing in size.

2. While the yeast is growing whisk together in another bowl sugar, butter (softened for 15-20 sec on microwave) egg, milk and salt. Add into yeast mixture.

3. Slowly add in flour and pumpkin spice, once you have added in all 4 cups make sure the dough is slightly sticky and looks like dough. Once you see this mix for another few minutes. If you still don’t see the dough looking proper, add in more flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until you do.

4. Once you have tipped the bowl over and poured out the dough lightly flour the top and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Form into a ball in your bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours.

5. Once you are about ready to roll dough, soften butter and mix in cinnamon and sugar for filling. When the dough is ready roll out to about 1/4 inch thick rectangular shape. Add filling to the middle making sure to cover all of the dough

6. Roll dough from one side of the rectangle to the other and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut along the middle and crisscross the dough from one side to the other. Tuck both ends under.

7. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on the top.

Frosting:

1. Mix softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. (If not in the room temp warm it for 30 seconds in the microwave before)

2. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.

Other Baked Goods You Will Love:

Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting

Soft Cream Cheese Lemon Blueberry Scones

Deliciously Sweet and Tangy: Blueberry Orange Glazed Muffins

Banana Bread Recipe

Sweet Perfection: Baking the Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze

If you're looking for an indulgent, coffee-infused twist on the classic cinnamon roll, then you have to try this Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze! This sweet and decadent dessert is the perfect combination of a classic cinnamon roll and a rich espresso taste with a yummy glaze. The loaf is incredibly moist and has all the flavorful delight of a classic cinnamon roll. Plus, the espresso glaze adds an extra layer of flavor that will have you coming back for more. So, if you're in the mood for the perfect morning treat, this Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze is the perfect indulgence. It is great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Plus, it is easy to make and packed with flavor. So don’t wait, give it a try today!

What type of flour is best to use for the Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze?

Making a delicious Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze is easy and simple with the right ingredients. All-purpose flour is the best type of flour to use for this recipe, as it will give the loaf the right texture. If you want a fluffier, lighter loaf, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour for cake flour. To ensure the best results, it's important to measure the flour correctly. Flour should be spooned into a measuring cup and leveled off with the back of a knife. For a gluten-free version of Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. If you’d like a nuttier flavor, you can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. For an even richer flavor, try substituting some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour. With all of the right ingredients and the right measurements, your Cinnamon Roll Loaf with Espresso Glaze will be a delicious success!

Is the Espresso Glaze necessary for the Cinnamon Roll Loaf?

The Espresso Glaze is an optional topping for the Cinnamon Roll Loaf that adds a unique flavor and richness to the dessert. However, it of course isn't mandatory and can just as easily be served on the side or substituted for any glaze or frosting of your liking. This espresso glaze recipe adds a very subtle coffee flavor to the loaf that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon and sugar in the rolls. The coffee taste is not overpowing, and your classic cinnamon roll lovers will find it just as irresistible. The Espresso Glaze is not necessary for the Cinnamon Roll Loaf, but it is a delicious addition that adds a unique flavor and makes the dessert even more special.

What type of espresso should be used for the Espresso Glaze?

The best type of espresso to use for the perfect flavor of Espresso Glaze is actually instant espresso powder. If you don't have espresso powder, you can also use a freshly made espresso shot. When using a freshly made espresso shot be sure to take out some of the milk or add additional powdered sugar to keep consistency the same. If you want a stronger espresso flavor in your glaze, you can use a double amount of espresso powder instead of the recommended amount in the recipe. This will give your glaze a bold and rich coffee flavor. The espresso flavor if very mild in this recipe to not overpower the cinnamon roll taste, but be sure to add more if you feel necessary. You can also add espresso to the filling to make these espresso cinnamon rolls to pair with the glaze frosting. With the combination of the cinnamon roll dough and the espresso glaze, this dessert is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!

Ingredients:

Dough

4 1/2 teaspoons fast-acting dry yeast

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter

1 egg

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup warm water

1 cup milk

Filling

1 cup browned butter

1/2 cup sugar

2 tablespoons cinnamon

Icing

1/4 cup butter

3 cups powdered sugar

1/4 cup milk

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 tablespoons espresso powder

Instructions:

1. Mix lukewarm water and yeast, and let sit for roughly 10 minutes to make sure the yeast is still active and bubbling. You will notice the yeast growing in size.

2. While the yeast is growing, you will whisk these together in a new bowl: sugar, butter (softened for 15-20 sec on microwave) egg, milk and salt with an electric mixer. Add in yeast mixture until fully incorporated.

3. Slowly add in flour with a wooden spoon, once you have added in all 4 cups make sure the dough is slightly sticky and looks like dough. Once you see this mix for another few minutes. If you still don’t see it looking like dough, add in more flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until you do.

4. Once you have fully mixed together the dough form into a ball in your bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 2 hours.

5. Next, soften butter and mix in cinnamon and sugar for filling and preheat oven to 350 degrees. When the dough is ready roll out lightly flour your work area and roll to about 1/4 inch thick rectangular shape. Add filling to the middle making sure to cover all of the dough

6. Roll dough from one side of the rectangle to the other and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut along the middle and crisscross the dough from one side to the other. Tuck both ends under.

7. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until golden browned on the top.

Frosting:

1. Mix softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. (If not in the room temp warm it for 30 seconds in the microwave before)

2. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Mix and drizzle over cinnamon roll loaf, serve extra on the side for those who like extra frosting. Enjoy!

The espresso glaze is simple to make and adds a unique flavor to the rolls, while the cinnamon roll dough is light and fluffy, making it the perfect addition to any special breakfast. The espresso glaze gives the cinnamon rolls a beautiful sheen and adds to the flavor, making them a must-try for any cinnamon roll lover. These Espresso Glazed Cinnamon Rolls will be a hit no matter what the occasion is. Not only are they delicious and easy to make, but they’re also a great way to enjoy a special treat at home. So, if you’re looking for a unique twist on the classic cinnamon roll, these espresso glazed rolls are a must-try!

Other Fall Inspired Recipes:

Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting

Indulge in Delicious Personal Pear Tarts

Indulge Your Sweet Tooth with This Delicious Brown Butter Spice Cake with Honey & Fig Jam Frosting

Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls with Mascarpone Frosting

There is nothing I love more on a Sunday morning then hot cinnamon rolls with some fresh brewed coffee! I am always trying to create new recipes with varieties of flavors to make it unique! For this recipe I used my tried and true cinnamon roll recipe but added a small twist of blackberry ( which is delicious even by itself) filling and a marscapone frosting that is OUT OF THIS WORLD!

A couple of tips when using this recipe:

1. You can make them overnight or same day. You will bake less same day because they won’t be cold. Check on them around 25 mins and every 5 mins after.

2. These may be softer then other cinnamon rolls you make when curing and rolling dough. Don’t be worried, this is normal!

3. Don’t worry if you eat more than one.. they are addicting 😉

Ingredients:

Dough

• 3 cups lukewarm water

• 2 tbsp instant yeast

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup butter

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp salt

• 8 cups flour (may need more)

Filling

• 1 cup melted butter

• 1 cup blackberries

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla

Icing

• 8 oz marscapone

• 1/2 cup butter

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 4 tbsp milk

• 2 tsp vanilla

Directions:

1. Mix luke warm water, yeast and 2 tbsp of sugar. Let sit for around 10 minutes to make sure yeast is good. You will notice the yeast growing in size.

2. Once you see yeast grow add in sugar, butter (softened for 15-20 sec in microwave) egg, salt.

3. Slowly add in flour, once you have added in all 6 cups make sure the dough is slightly sticky and looking like dough. Once you see this, mix for another few minutes. It will start to pull away from the bowl, and If you don’t see this add in more flour until you do.

4. Sift flour over a clean counter top. Make sure to flour the area outside of where dough is. You will be rolling it out here and you don’t want it to stick later.

5. Once you have tipped the bowl over and poured out the dough lightly flour the top and cover with a clean kitchen towel.

6. Let rise for 3 hours.

7. Once you are about ready to roll dough, melt butter in bowl. Add butter and rest of filling ingredients to blender and milk until it looks like a smoothie.

8. When dough is ready roll out to about 1/4 inch thick rectangular form.

9. Pour over the filling mix and evenly spread over the dough.

10. Next roll dough up for cinnamon rolls! My dough recipe is a little softer than some you may have tried in the past, so if you feel its so soft don’t worry, its going to be delicious!

11. Cut about 2 inch apart and place on pan. They will grow in size so pay attention to spacing.

12. Wrap top with saran wrap and put in fridge overnight. Next morning take out and let sit at room temp for 1 hour.

13. Bake at 350. Put cinnamon rolls in as the oven is heating to help pan and rolls adjust to the heat from the fridge (1 hour room temperature they will still be cool to touch)

14. Bake an additional 45 min. Check at 25 min if tops are a golden brown layer foil for rest of cooking!

15. Once cooked to your liking pour frosting on rolls and enjoy!

Frosting:

1. Mix mascarpone and butter until smooth. (if not at room temp warm for 30 seconds in microwave before)

2. Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Pumpkin Spice Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

My homemade cinnamon rolls are a staple for the Holidays as well as anytime we host company for breakfast! They are so yummy and soft, but the best part is I get to lick the whole bowl of frosting! I love the recipe so much that I have been working on making it into a Fall recipe for all my pumpkin lovers. If you’re not as obsessed with pumpkin as much as I am I made sure to make the recipe a pumpkin spice flavor to have the pumpkin taste be a little more subtle. My hubby (aka food tester) isn’t the biggest pumpkin fan in the world, but he absolutely loved them! I myself am a pumpkin lover..so naturally, I loved them as well. So, its safe to say this is simply a great Fall treat the whole group will love!! Lets get baking!!

Ingredients:

Dough

• 3 cups luke warm water

• 3 packets of Fact acting dry yeast

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup butter

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp pumpkin spice

• 6 cups flour

Filling

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (if you want it more pumpkiny double this part)

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 2 tbsp cinnamon

Icing

• 8 oz cream cheese

• 1/2 cup butter

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 4 tbsp milk

• 2 tsp vanilla

• 1 tsp pumpkin spice

Directions:

1. Mix luke warm water, yeast and 2 tbsp of sugar, let sit for around 10 minutes to make sure yeast is good. You will notice the yeast growing in size.

2. Once you see yeast grow add in sugar, butter (softened for 15-20 sec on microwave) egg, salt and pumpkin spice

3. Slowly add in flour, once you have added in all 6 cups make sure the dough is slightly sticky and looking like dough. Once you see this mix for another few minutes. If you still don’t add in more flour until you do.

4. Sift flour over a clean counter top and lay dough down in the middle. Make sure to over flour the area outside of where dough is. You will be rolling it out here and you don’t want it to stick later.

5. Once you have tipped the bowl over and poured out the dough lightly flour the top and cover with a clean kitchen towel.

6. Let rise for 3 hours.

7. Once you are about ready to roll dough. Melt butter in a clean bowl and mix with pumpkin puree.

8. When dough is ready roll out to about 1/4 inch thick rectangular form.

9. Pour over the butter mix and evenly spread over the dough. Sprinkle sugar, cinnamon and pumpkin spice

10. Next roll dough up for cinnamon rolls!

11. Cut about 1 inch apart and place on pan. They will grow in size so pay attention to spacing.

12. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes

13. Once cooked to your liking pour frosting on rolls and enjoy!

Frosting:

1. Mix cream cheese and butter until smooth. (if not at room temp warm for 30 seconds in microwave before)

2. Add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla and pumpkin spice