Light and Fluffy Sourdough Discard Doughnuts Recipe

These sourdough discard doughnuts are the perfect easy way to use up extra sourdough starter. They have a tangy taste with a sweet sugar and cinnamon finish.

The sourdough discard donuts can be made in the oven or the air fryer. They have the perfect light and fluffy texture with mouthwatering flavor profiles. These sourdough discard donuts use up 1/2 cup of sourdough discard and only require a few extra ingredients to make.

My kids absolutely loved these sourdough donuts. Fresh out of the air fryer with melted butter and topped with a cinnamon sugar mixture. So yummy!

What is sourdough discard, and how does it differ from active sourdough starter?

Sourdough discard refers to the portion of sourdough starter that is removed and discarded during the feeding or refreshing process. When maintaining a sourdough starter, it needs regular feedings of flour and water to keep the natural fermentation process going. During these feedings, a portion of the mature starter is removed to make room for the fresh flour and water mixture. This discarded portion is known as sourdough discard.

The key difference between sourdough discard and an active sourdough starter lies in their stage of development and activity. Sourdough discard is essentially a mature but unfed portion of the starter. It may not have the same leavening power or activity as a freshly fed starter, but it still contains the complex flavors developed during fermentation.

Can I prepare the sourdough discard donuts ahead of time and refrigerate the dough overnight for a next-day bake?

Yes, you can prepare the sourdough discard donuts ahead of time and refrigerate the dough overnight for a next-day bake. This overnight method can enhance the flavor of the donuts while providing convenience in your baking schedule. Here’s a general guideline on how to do it:

1. Prepare the Dough: Follow your sourdough discard donut recipe up until the point where you have shaped the donuts or cut them into rounds. Instead of letting them rise at room temperature, you’ll be refrigerating the dough.
2. Cover and Refrigerate: Place the shaped or cut-out donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel to prevent the dough from drying out. Place the entire baking sheet in the refrigerator.
3. Overnight Rest: Allow the donut dough to rest in the refrigerator overnight. This extended cold fermentation period can develop deeper flavors in the dough.
4. Next-Day Bake: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your air fryer or your oven for baking. Take the donut dough out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 15-30 minutes.
5. Air Fry or Bake as Usual: Proceed with air frying or baking the donuts as per the recipe instructions. The chilled dough may take a bit longer to rise or puff up, but the extra time enhances the flavor and texture of the final product.

Remember to monitor the donuts closely as they cook to ensure they achieve the desired golden brown color and doneness. This overnight refrigeration method can be a time-saving and flavor-boosting technique for making delicious sourdough discard donuts.

Additions and topping ideas for the donuts.

Glazes:

1. Classic Vanilla Glaze: A simple combination of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract creates a sweet and slightly tangy glaze that complements the sourdough notes.
2. Lemon or Orange Zest Glaze: Add a citrusy kick by incorporating lemon or orange zest into your glaze. The bright, fresh flavors contrast nicely with the richness of the donuts.
3. Maple Glaze: For a comforting and slightly earthy sweetness, try a glaze made with maple syrup. It adds depth and richness to the donuts.

Toppings:

1. Cinnamon Sugar: Roll warm donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a classic, comforting coating that enhances the sweetness of the sourdough.
2. Chopped Nuts: Finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, add crunch and nutty undertones to each bite.
3. Toasted Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut not only provides a delightful crunch but also adds a hint of tropical flavor to the donuts.

Fillings:

1. Fruit Jam or Preserves: Inject a burst of fruity goodness by filling the donuts with your favorite fruit jam or preserves. Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot work well.
2. Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a smooth and glossy chocolate ganache filling or drizzle can elevate the richness of the sourdough donuts.
3. Cream Cheese Filling: A cream cheese-based filling, perhaps with a touch of vanilla or citrus zest, can offer a creamy and tangy contrast to the donut’s texture.

More Delicious Discard Recipes: