Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Bread

If you’re a fan of sourdough, cinnamon rolls, and a bit of baking creativity, this Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Bread is about to become your new obsession. It combines the chewy, airy texture of classic focaccia with the gooey, sweet swirl of a cinnamon roll. The result? A gorgeous mash-up that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

This playful twist on two traditional favorites is also a great way to use your sourdough starter. With a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping and an optional cream cheese glaze, it’s a showstopper that looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make. Think of it as cinnamon roll vibes with a rustic sourdough soul.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something special, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and aroma. Best of all, it’s flexible enough to bake in the morning or overnight for a slow ferment. Let’s get baking!

🕒 Cooking Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (active)

• Rest & Rise Time: 8–12 hours (overnight) + 1–2 hours (proof)

• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes

• Total Time: ~10–14 hours (including fermentation)

• Servings: 8–10

📝 Ingredients

Dough:

• 100g (about 1/2 cup) active sourdough starter

• 350g (1 1/2 cups) warm water

• 400g (about 3 1/4 cups) all-purpose or bread flour

• 8g (1 1/2 tsp) salt

• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for the pan and drizzling)

Cinnamon Sugar Filling:

• 1/3 cup brown sugar

• 2 tsp cinnamon

• 3 tbsp softened butter

Optional Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 2 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp milk

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

👨‍🍳 How to Make Sourdough Cinnamon Roll Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough (Night Before)

1. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough starter and warm water.

2. Add flour and salt. Mix until no dry bits remain. The dough will be sticky.

3. Let rest for 30 minutes, then perform 2–3 sets of stretch and folds, spaced 30 minutes apart.

4. Cover the bowl and let rise at room temperature overnight (8–12 hours), or until doubled and bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

1. Generously oil a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan.

2. In the morning, transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it out to fit. Let it rest for 1–2 hours until puffy.

Step 3: Add Cinnamon Swirl

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.

3. Dot softened butter across the surface of the dough.

4. Use your fingers to dimple the dough deeply, pressing the butter in.

5. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp around the edges.

2. Let cool slightly before adding glaze.

Step 5: Glaze (Optional)

1. Whisk cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

2. Drizzle over warm focaccia and serve!

💡 Notes

• Overnight Rise: If your kitchen is very warm, reduce the fermentation time to 6–8 hours to avoid over-proofing.

• Add-Ins: Try adding chopped pecans, raisins, or a dash of cardamom for extra flavor.

• Storage: Store leftovers covered at room temp for 1 day, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

• No Cream Cheese? Use a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk instead.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this without sourdough starter?

You can replicate it with instant yeast: use 1 tsp of yeast and reduce rise times accordingly. But the sourdough flavor will be missing.

What kind of flour is best?

All-purpose flour works well, but bread flour gives a slightly chewier texture.

Can I freeze it?

Yes! Freeze slices individually and reheat in a toaster oven or microwave.

Do I have to use the glaze?

Not at all. It’s delicious on its own or with just a dusting of powdered sugar.

🍽️ Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Based on 10 Slices)

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe is intended as an occasional treat. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet and be mindful of added sugars and fats. If you have food allergies (especially gluten, dairy, or nuts), always check ingredients and consult with a medical professional before trying new recipes.