Name: Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia: Soft, Sweet Perfection Awaits
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Active Sourdough Starter (Ensure it's bubbly and active); 1 cup Warm Water (Between 100°F - 110°F); 1.5 teaspoons Salt (Enhances flavor); 3.5 cups Unbleached Flour (Main structure of the focaccia); Cooking Spray (Avocado or other) (Optional but recommended); 1/2 cup Salted Butter (Melt before mixing); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with coconut sugar); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure for best flavor); 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust based on preference); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Adjust milk/cream for consistency); 2 tablespoons Milk or Cream (Any type, including non-dairy)

Caught in a whirlwind of daily hustle, I stumbled upon a simple truth: the joy of homemade bread can ignite warmth in even the busiest mornings. That’s how I fell in love with Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia—a delightful fusion of sweet, gooey cinnamon rolls and fluffy, airy focaccia that would make any breakfast feel special. This beginner-friendly recipe requires no yeast and promises same-day baking, making it easily accessible for those just starting out. With its irresistible, buttery topping and a luscious vanilla glaze, you’ll bring the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread into your kitchen in no time. Whether you’re treating family to a holiday breakfast or indulging in a sweet afternoon snack, this Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia is sure to impress. Are you ready to embark on your own baking adventure?

Why is this focaccia so special?

Easy, No-Yeast Recipe: Perfect for beginners, this Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia is a simple introduction to sourdough baking. Delightful Flavor Combination: The sweet, gooey cinnamon roll goodness meets the airy texture of focaccia in a way that’s simply irresistible. Same-Day Baking: No need to wait; you can enjoy this treat fresh out of the oven in just a few hours! Customizable Toppings: Experiment with your favorite flavors or even try variations like adding nuts or dried fruit for an extra crunch. Impressive Presentation: This beautiful bread not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning, making it an ideal centerpiece for your breakfast table. If you love this recipe, you might also want to explore our delightful Apple Cinnamon Blondies or enjoy some warm Apple Cinnamon Cookies as a sweet treat!

Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Ingredients

• Get ready for a mouthwatering experience with these key ingredients!

For the Dough

Active Sourdough Starter – Your primary leavening agent that provides both flavor and rise; ensure it’s bubbly and active for best results.
Warm Water – Hydrates the flour and starter, essential for dough formation; use water between 100°F – 110°F for optimal fermentation.
Salt – Enhances flavor and strengthens gluten structure; do not skip; use 1½ teaspoons.
Unbleached Flour – Forms the main structure of the focaccia; about 3½ cups will give you the right consistency.
Cooking Spray (Avocado or other) – Prevents sticking during fermentation and baking; optional but recommended for easy handling.

For the Topping

Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; be sure to melt it before mixing with sugar and cinnamon.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness to the topping; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
Ground Cinnamon – The key flavoring spice for the topping; adjust quantity based on your cinnamon love.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and adds a creamy texture to the glaze; adjust milk/cream to reach your desired consistency.
Milk or Cream – Helps create the glaze; feel free to use any milk, including non-dairy options for added flexibility.

Dive into the delicious adventure of making Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia and embrace the incredible blend of flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together your active sourdough starter with warm water, ensuring the temperature is between 100°F – 110°F for optimal fermentation. This mixture should look smooth and slightly bubbly. Once combined, let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate the starter, creating a perfect base for your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Add the salt and unbleached flour to the bowl, stirring vigorously until fully combined. You’ll want a shaggy dough that doesn’t stick to your hands excessively. Once mixed, cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes; this process helps to hydrate the flour and begin developing the gluten structure.

Step 3: Stretch and Fold
After the resting period, perform a stretch and fold technique on the dough. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then gently pull up one side of the dough and fold it over itself. Turn the bowl slightly, and repeat this process for each side. This step should take about 5 minutes and will help develop the structure of your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia.

Step 4: Bulk Fermentation
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Place the bowl in a warm area, allowing it to rise for approximately 3 hours, or until it has increased in volume by 50% to 75%. You should see bubbles forming on the surface, indicating that fermentation is progressing beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Pan
While your dough is fermenting, spray a 9×13 glass baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once the dough has completed its bulk fermentation, carefully transfer it into the baking dish while performing another gentle stretch and fold to maintain some of the airiness.

Step 6: Second Proof
Cover the baking dish with a clean towel and allow the dough to proof for another 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. During this time, the dough should puff up and look airy, making it ready for the delicious toppings that will follow, characteristic of Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia.

Step 7: Make Topping
In a small saucepan, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This rich topping will bring out the sweet flavors, enhancing your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia.

Step 8: Dimple Dough
After the second proof, wet your fingers and gently press them into the dough to create dimples across its surface. This step not only adds texture but will help the topping spread evenly. Make sure the dimples are deep enough to hold the delicious mixture you prepared, setting the stage for a scrumptious baking experience.

Step 9: Bake
Pour the buttery topping over the dimpled dough, ensuring even coverage. Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the focaccia; it should turn a beautiful golden brown and bubble slightly, indicating that it’s baking to perfection.

Step 10: Make Glaze
While your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just enough milk or cream to achieve a smooth, drizzle-able consistency. This glaze will add the final touch of sweetness, complementing the flavors beautifully.

Step 11: Drizzle and Serve
Once your focaccia has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the dimples and create a delightful finish. Cut into squares and serve warm as an enticing dessert or a fabulous breakfast treat. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors in this Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia!

Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a quality dairy-free alternative to enjoy this treat without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version, ensuring it includes xanthan gum for structure.
Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the topping for added crunch and flavor contrast.
Fruit-Filled: Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries into the topping for a sweet and chewy texture.
Spiced Up: Swap the ground cinnamon for other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique and aromatic twist.
Flavor Boost: Introduce flavored extracts such as almond or hazelnut to the glaze for a delightful flavor variation.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the dough the night before, let it rise in the fridge, and bake fresh in the morning for an effortless breakfast option.
Gooey Goodness: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the focaccia for a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.

If you’re intrigued by these variations, consider also checking out our delicious Apple Cinnamon Blondies or warm, comforting Apple Cinnamon Cookies for additional ways to bring sweet indulgence into your baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time while still delivering a delightful homemade treat! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it after the first rise for up to 12 hours; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to proceed, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before performing the second proof. Also, the buttery topping can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge; just gently reheat it before use. This way, you’ll have freshly baked focaccia with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness, making your mornings a breeze!

Expert Tips for Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia

Active Starter Required: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before use for the best rise and flavor in your focaccia.
Temperature Matters: Use warm water between 100°F – 110°F; this helps activate the yeast naturally present in the sourdough and promotes better fermentation.
Watch the Dough: Rely on visual cues during fermentation—look for bubbles and the dough’s increased volume instead of strictly counting minutes for best results.
Adjust Baking Time for Pan Type: If you’re using a metal pan, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F and keep an eye on the baking time to prevent over-browning.
Dimpling Technique: When dimpling, wet your fingers to prevent dough from sticking. This will help create the perfect pockets for your delicious topping in the Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia.

Storage Tips for Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia

Room Temperature: Store the focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain its delicious softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week; however, this may slightly alter the texture. Reheat slices in the toaster or oven for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the focaccia tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a quick 20-30 seconds—perfect for reviving that scrumptious Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia!

What to Serve with Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia

Pairing this warm, sweet treat with complementary flavors and textures can elevate your meal to new heights.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of freshness and balances the sweetness of the focaccia.
Savory Egg Casserole: The rich, cheesy flavors in an egg casserole perfectly contrast the sweet cinnamon notes in the focaccia while providing protein.
Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy yogurt brings a lovely creaminess, enhancing the overall experience with its cool texture.
Flavored Coffee: Pair with a smooth vanilla or caramel coffee; the warmth accentuates the cinnamon in the focaccia beautifully.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your dessert experience by adding a drizzle of dark chocolate, providing a luxurious, bittersweet pairing with the sweet focaccia.
Nutty Granola: Crushed granola sprinkled on top adds a delightful crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Maple Syrup: For a touch of sweetness, a drizzle of warm maple syrup can introduce a delightful earthy tone.
Herbal Tea: A soothing chamomile or mint tea complements the sweet aroma of the focaccia, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Ice Cream: Serve warm pieces alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent treat perfect for any time of the day.

Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Recipe FAQs

What type of sourdough starter should I use?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use an active sourdough starter for this recipe. Make sure it’s bubbly and has been fed recently. Ideally, it should be at its peak rise, which means it should have just doubled in size after feeding. This ensures that your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia rises beautifully.

How should I store leftovers?
You can store the focaccia in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you notice it drying out, consider wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for about a week, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.

Can I freeze Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia?
Very! To freeze your Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising well, it could be due to a few factors: your sourdough starter may not have been active enough, or the environment might be too cold. Make sure your dough is in a warm spot, ideally around 75°F to 80°F. If you’re struggling, you can place the bowl in your oven with just the light on to create a cozy environment.

Can I make adjustments for allergies?
Absolutely! You can modify this recipe based on dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, swap out the unbleached flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, if you need a dairy-free option, use non-dairy butter and substitute the milk or cream in the glaze with a plant-based alternative. Always keep in mind cross-contamination if allergies are severe.