Spring is here, and with it comes a delightful array of fresh flavors—none more tempting than the unique combination of sourdough and tart rhubarb. When my garden’s rhubarb stalks first peek through the earth, my mind instantly races with ideas for delicious treats. That’s when I decided to marry the chewy, tangy notes of sourdough with the bright, fruity burst of rhubarb in these Sticky Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls.

As the warm, sweet aroma wafts through my kitchen, my excitement builds. Picture this: soft, pillowy rolls spilling over with gooey rhubarb filling, perfect for indulging at breakfast or savoring as an afternoon snack. They’re not just a feast for the palate; they bring that comforting, homemade feel we all crave. With every bite, you’ll find that wonderfully contrasting tang and sweetness that makes these rolls a must-try this season. Join me as we dive into creating this irresistible spring treat!

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls

Unforgettable flavor: The tartness of rhubarb brilliantly complements the rich, tangy notes of sourdough.
Homemade comfort: There’s nothing like the scent of freshly baked rolls wafting through your kitchen to warm your heart.
Versatile treat: Enjoy them at breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert anytime.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these rolls are perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Seasonal delight: Celebrate spring with this vibrant recipe, highlighting fresh rhubarb, a seasonal favorite.
Elevate your baking skills with a touch of creativity—experiment with fillings and toppings for a personalized touch!

Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls Ingredients

To whip up these delectable Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

Slightly Warm Water – Hydrates the dry ingredients and activates the yeast.
Sourdough Starter – Adds flavor and helps the dough rise; make sure it’s active for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour (for pre-ferment) – Provides structure; you can substitute with bread flour for extra chewiness.
Butter – Adds richness and flavor; feel free to use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Honey – Naturallly sweetens the dough; swap it with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
Salt – Enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity.
Whole Milk – Contributes moisture and fat; almond milk is a great non-dairy substitution.

For the Rhubarb Filling

Sliced Rhubarb – The star of the filling, bringing a tart zing; fresh or frozen works perfectly.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses depth to the filling’s flavor.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to the rhubarb; you can use either light or dark brown sugar.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors and enhances the rhubarb’s tartness.
Arrowroot Powder – Thickens the rhubarb filling; cornstarch is a suitable alternative.
Filtered Water – Mix with arrowroot to create a slurry, essential for thickening.

Each of these ingredients plays a vital role in crafting the warm, enticing flavors of your Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls. Enjoy the process and happy baking!

How to Make Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls

Prepare the Pre-Ferment: In a mixing bowl, combine slightly warm water, sourdough starter, and all-purpose flour. Let this mixture sit for 8-24 hours until bubbly and fragrant.
Mix the Dough: Melt butter and combine it with honey and salt. Stir in warmed whole milk, then add to your pre-ferment. Gradually incorporate more flour while mixing until fully combined. Knead the dough for about 13 minutes until soft and slightly sticky.
First Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size, which should take about 2-3 hours.
Make the Rhubarb Filling: In a saucepan, cook sliced rhubarb with brown sugar and lemon juice over medium heat. Once rhubarb starts to soften, add the arrowroot slurry (made from arrowroot powder and filtered water) to thicken the mixture. Allow it to cool.
Shape the Rolls: Roll out the risen dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then generously layer on the cooled rhubarb filling. Roll the dough tightly, seal the edges, and slice into 12 even pieces.
Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for an additional 30-45 minutes until puffy.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Allow them to cool slightly before serving warm for that comforting homemade experience.

Optional: Drizzle with a vanilla glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pre-ferment (water, sourdough starter, and flour) up to 24 hours in advance for optimal flavor. Additionally, the rhubarb filling can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy these rolls, simply assemble and allow them to go through the second rise for 30-45 minutes before baking. For the best quality, cover any prepared dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have warm, delicious rolls ready with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls

Room Temperature: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep the rolls soft without drying them out.
Fridge: If you want to extend the shelf life, place the rolls in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from absorbing odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, make sure they are wrapped tightly.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, bringing back that lovely, fresh-baked texture.

What to Serve with Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls?

These delightful rolls create the perfect centerpiece for a cheerful spring gathering or a cozy breakfast at home.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls, enhancing their fruity flavors.
Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, yogurt adds a lovely balance to the sweetness of the rolls, perfect for a light breakfast.
Cinnamon Coffee: The warm spices complement the tangy rhubarb, making for a comforting drink alongside your sweet treat.
Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey over the rolls amplifies their sweetness and adds a beautiful shine to the finished dish.
Nutty Granola: Adding a sprinkle of granola provides crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls.
Herbed Tea: Serve alongside a delicate herbal tea, like chamomile, which will not overpower the delicate flavors of the rolls.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade can brighten up the meal, balancing the rich flavors with its bright acidity.
Whipped Cream: For a special dessert treat, top with lightly sweetened whipped cream for a decadent touch that screams indulgence.

Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls Variations

Feel free to bring your own touch to these delightful rolls with some creative swaps and additions!

Fruit Swap: Replace rhubarb with seasonal fruits like strawberries, cherries, or peaches for a different burst of flavor.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for added warmth and depth in flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts the soft rolls.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk instead of whole milk for a completely dairy-free version.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate orange zest into the filling for a zippy citrus note that brightens the flavor profile.
Chocolate Surprise: Fold in dark chocolate chips alongside the rhubarb filling for a decadent twist that pairs beautifully.
Maple Magic: Instead of honey, use maple syrup in the dough for a rich, caramel-like sweetness that will elevate the rolls.

Let’s get baking and explore endless possibilities with these beautiful spring rolls!

Expert Tips for Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls

Yeast Temperature: Ensure the dough is warm (around 105°F) to activate the yeast, but avoid hot water that could kill it.
Thorough Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s soft and slightly sticky, which creates the light, fluffy texture you desire in these rolls.
Clean Cuts: Use unflavored dental floss to slice the rolls into even pieces without squashing them—this keeps the beautiful filling intact.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh rhubarb when possible for the best flavor and texture in your Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls.
Check Dual Rise Times: Allow the dough ample time to rise both times for optimal fluffiness; don’t rush this essential step!

Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe rhubarb for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting rhubarb, look for firm, crisp stalks that are bright in color and free of dark spots or blemishes. The stalks should be vibrant and not limp to ensure the best flavor in your Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls. Avoid any that have turned overly woody or stringy, as they can negatively affect the texture of your filling.

What is the best way to store leftover Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a longer shelf life, you can also refrigerate them, but make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from absorbing odors. If you’d like to enjoy them after a bit longer time, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls? How?
Yes, you can certainly freeze these delightful rolls! First, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, and they will taste fresh again!

What should I do if the dough isn’t rising well?
If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to a few factors. First, ensure that your sourdough starter is active; if it hasn’t been fed recently, it may not have enough yeast. Additionally, the temperature of your environment can affect rising—try placing the dough in a warm spot, such as near a preheated oven or in a slightly heated oven turned off. If things are too cold, the dough may take much longer to rise.

Are there any common allergies or dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Indeed! For those with dairy allergies, you can easily substitute butter with coconut oil or margarine and use almond milk instead of whole milk. If you’re making this recipe for someone vegan, swap honey for maple syrup and ensure your butter substitute is dairy-free. Always double-check ingredient labels to accommodate any food allergies or dietary restrictions.

Can I use frozen rhubarb for these rolls?
Absolutely! Frozen rhubarb works wonderfully in these Sourdough Rhubarb Sweet Rolls. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking and drain any excess liquid to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. This way, you can enjoy a taste of spring even when rhubarb isn’t in season!