These Sourdough Discard Apple Cider Donuts are a sweet treat that uses leftover sourdough starter. They have a soft, moist texture and a delightful apple cider flavor that’s perfect for fall!
They smell amazing while baking, and you won’t be able to stop at just one. I love enjoying them warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar—best snack ever! 🍩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: This is the star of the recipe! It adds a nice tang. If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can use plain yogurt or applesauce, but the flavor will change slightly.
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider gives the best flavor. If you don’t have any, apple juice works as a substitute but might be a bit sweeter. You can also try hard cider for a unique twist!
Egg: The egg helps bind everything. For a vegan option, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). It won’t affect texture too much.
Applesauce: This adds moisture. If you don’t have it, try unsweetened mashed banana or even pumpkin puree for a different flavor profile.
Spices: Ground cinnamon is essential for that cozy flavor. Feel free to adjust spices, or if you prefer, add nutmeg or ginger for a little kick. You can leave out cloves if you’re not a fan.
How Do I Ensure My Donuts are Soft and Tender?
To get those perfect soft donuts, focus on not overmixing the batter. Here are some tips:
- Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Some lumps are okay!
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better results.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking—this keeps them moist and allows flavors to develop.
Also, be sure not to overbake them. Keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of the time, until they just spring back when lightly touched.
These tips will help you create delicious, mouthwatering sourdough apple cider donuts that everyone will love! Enjoy the process just as much as the treats!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Apple Cider Donuts Bread
Ingredients You Will Need:
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 3/4 cup apple cider, warmed
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: glaze made from 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons apple cider
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a few additional minutes for cooling and coating these donuts, so overall, expect to have these delicious treats ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Depending on whether you’re making donuts or bread slices, lightly grease a donut pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sourdough discard, warmed apple cider, egg, applesauce, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s nicely blended.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves (if using). This mixture adds all the spices that make these donuts so delicious!
4. Blend the Ingredients:
Now, pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Gently fold in the melted butter until everything is just combined. Remember, it’s okay to have a few lumps; don’t overmix to keep your donuts nice and tender!
5. Fill the Donut Pan:
Spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan, making sure to fill each cavity about 3/4 full. If you are making bread slices, spread the mixture evenly in the loaf pan or on the baking sheet.
6. Bake Time:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—the donut is ready if it comes out clean! For bread slices, bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden and set.
7. Cooling:
Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. While the donuts are still warm, dip each one in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar to coat. Yum!
9. Optional Glaze:
If you’d like a sweet glaze, mix together powdered sugar and apple cider to drizzle over your cooled donuts for extra sweetness!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
These lovely donuts can be served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or share them with friends and family for a delightful treat!
This recipe makes soft, moist donuts bursting with apple cider flavor and the unique tang of sourdough. Perfect for a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar?
Yes! While brown sugar adds a nice depth of flavor, you can substitute it with granulated sugar or coconut sugar. Just keep in mind it may slightly alter the taste and moisture content of the donuts.
Can I Make These Donuts Without Eggs?
Absolutely! You can use a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the wet ingredients. This will help bind the donuts without the use of eggs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before freezing.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste! If you prefer a more pronounced flavor, feel free to increase the cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also leave out the cloves or any other spices you don’t enjoy. Customize it to your liking!
