Name: Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491188H20M52S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup salted butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 3/4 cup Greek yogurt, at room temperature; 1/2 cup sourdough discard, at room temperature (or substitute with extra 1/2 cup Greek yogurt); 2 eggs, at room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup brown sugar, light or dark; 1 tbsp cinnamon; 6 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 3-4 tbsp milk of choice

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 3 reviews

If you’re looking for a stunning treat that marries rich, nutty flavors with a touch of tangy brightness, the Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts Recipe is just what you need. These little bundt cakes bring together the deep flavor of browned butter and the gentle tang of sourdough discard in a tender cake that’s swirled with a perfectly spiced cinnamon sugar mix and crowned with a luxuriously smooth cream cheese center. Bite-sized yet packed with personality, they’re a delightful way to elevate your breakfast, brunch, or cozy dessert moments.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five golden-brown small pastries with a fluted flower shape, each topped with a white creamy dot in the center. They are lightly dusted with powdered sugar, which also spreads around them on a white marbled surface. The pastries have a slightly crispy texture with visible layers on their edges. Shadows fall diagonally across the surface, adding depth to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts Recipe uses simple pantry staples that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the nuttiness of browned butter, the tang of sourdough discard, to the sweet cinnamon swirl, every ingredient comes together harmoniously.

All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): The backbone of the cakes providing structure and soft crumb.
Baking powder (1 tsp): Gives the cakes a light lift and tenderness.
Baking soda (1/4 tsp): Works with the sourdough to add gentle rise and browning.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
Salted butter (1/2 cup): Browned to perfection for a deep, nutty flavor that makes these cakes unforgettable.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the batter evenly for balanced sweetness.
Brown sugar (1/4 cup + 1/2 cup): Adds rich molasses notes and works magic in the cinnamon swirl.
Greek yogurt (3/4 cup): Keeps the crumb tender and moist with a little tang.
Sourdough discard (1/2 cup): Brings a subtle tang and depth to the cake; a wonderful way to reduce waste. (Substitute: extra 1/2 cup Greek yogurt if desired.)
Eggs (2): Provide richness and structure.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Lifts all the flavors with its aromatic warmth.
Cinnamon (1 tbsp): Key to the cozy cinnamon swirl that makes these cinnabundts so comforting.
Cream cheese (6 oz): Beats into a silky filling and frosting for that luscious center.
Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese glaze to a perfect pourable consistency.
Milk of choice (3-4 tbsp): Adjusts the cream cheese glaze to smooth and drizzle-friendly.

How to Make Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat the Oven

Start by greasing your mini bundt cake pan generously with butter, then dusting it with flour to ensure every mini bundt pops out beautifully after baking. If you prefer, you can swap the mini bundts for a single loaf by preparing an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan with butter and parchment paper. Then preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the salted butter while stirring gently and continuously. Watch closely as it foams and then starts to take on a golden brown color with nutty aroma — this should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Remove it from the heat and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This step transforms the butter’s flavor into something truly special that makes these Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts Recipe stand out.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While the butter is cooling, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a medium bowl. Sifting ensures your batter stays light and lump-free for tender cakes.

Step 4: Combine Butter and Sugars

Transfer the slightly cooled brown butter to a large mixing bowl, then whisk in granulated sugar and 1/4 cup brown sugar until smooth and fully incorporated — this mix not only sweetens the cake but enhances its moist texture and color.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Dairy

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully folded in before adding the next. Then whisk in the sourdough discard (or extra Greek yogurt if using), the Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients and fold gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing here as you want the cakes to stay tender and light.

Step 7: Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar and cinnamon. This simple mixture brings the classic warm cinnamon flavor that swirls through each bite of these delightful cakes.

Step 8: Assemble the Bundts

Fill each mini bundt cavity about one-third full with batter and spread it evenly. Sprinkle roughly one tablespoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Then add more batter to fill 3/4 of each cavity and smooth the tops. For the loaf version, spread half the batter in the pan, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top, and cover with the remaining batter.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake the mini bundts at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes — perfect little cakes that will spring back lightly with a toothpick inserted clean. For the loaf, bake at 350°F for 40 to 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean and the top is golden.

Step 10: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Filling

While the cakes are baking, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy. This luscious cream cheese filling is the crowning jewel of the Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts Recipe.

Step 11: Cool and Finish

Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, pour the cream cheese filling into the hollow center of each mini bundt, or drizzle it generously over the top of the loaf. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar if you want an elegant, snowy effect.

Step 12: Enjoy!

These Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts are ready to be enjoyed fresh and warm or at room temperature for a moment of pure bliss.

How to Serve Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts Recipe

The image shows two small bundt cakes with a golden brown crust and soft texture. Each cake has a white cream dollop in the center top, with powdered sugar lightly dusted over the cakes and the white marbled surface beneath them. The cakes have a detailed, ridged pattern on the sides, and the light creates soft shadows that highlight the crumbly texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar is the classic finishing touch that enhances the sweetness without overwhelming the cinnamon and brown butter flavors. For a festive touch, try a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans to add crunch and complement the nuttiness.

Side Dishes

Serve these cinnabundts with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or a creamy latte to complement their warmth. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or a simple berry compote can add a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch centerpiece, arrange the Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts on a pretty platter with edible flowers and cinnamon sticks. Alternatively, stack a few with layers of whipped cream and fresh berries to create a visually stunning mini cake tower that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stored in an airtight container, these mini bundts stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve their moist texture and vibrant flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze unfilled mini bundts for up to 2 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze the cream cheese filling separately for best results. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat leftover mini bundts gently in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their fresh-baked charm. Add the cream cheese filling after warming to keep it smooth and luscious.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without sourdough discard?

Absolutely! If you don’t have sourdough discard on hand, simply substitute it with an equal amount of extra Greek yogurt. This keeps the batter moist and tangy.

What if I don’t have a mini bundt pan?

No worries! You can bake the batter in a loaf pan using the same instructions, just adjust the baking time accordingly. Muffin tins can also work for mini cakes, though the classic bundt shape lends extra charm.

How important is browning the butter?

Browning the butter transforms its flavor, adding a nutty, caramelized depth that elevates this recipe. It’s definitely worth the extra few minutes for the incredible aroma and taste it imparts.

Can I make the cream cheese filling dairy-free?

Yes, by using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and your preferred plant-based milk, you can easily adapt the filling for dietary needs without sacrificing creaminess.

How long can I store leftover cream cheese filling?

Store leftover cream cheese filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is chilled well before using to maintain its best texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about the way these Mini Brown Butter Sourdough Cinnabundts balance richness, sweetness, and a little tang in every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself at breakfast, impressing friends at brunch, or capping off a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers warm comfort with every forkful. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how brilliantly simple ingredients can come together for something truly unforgettable.