Description

This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is a delightful way to use your sourdough starter discard, creating a moist and flavorful cake with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat, this easy-to-make coffee cake features a tender crumb, subtle tanginess from the sourdough, and optional nutty or streusel toppings for added texture and sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 cup sourdough discard
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
½ cup melted unsalted butter

Optional Toppings

Nuts (such as chopped walnuts or pecans)
Streusel (mix of sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter)

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan well to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt ensuring an even distribution of the leavening and spices.
Combine Wet Ingredients and Sourdough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the melted unsalted butter, eggs, sourdough discard, and vanilla extract to the well. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
Prepare Toppings (Optional): If using, combine your choice of nuts or a streusel topping separately with a bit of cinnamon and sugar to sprinkle over the cake before baking.
Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly. Sprinkle the optional toppings on top if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the coffee cake turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely if preferred, or serve warm for a soft, comforting texture.

Notes

Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
Sourdough discard can vary in hydration; if the batter seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to adjust consistency.
Storing leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature keeps it fresh for up to 2 days.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter alternative.
Adding nuts to the topping provides a delightful crunch, but is optional based on preference or allergies.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: sourdough discard coffee cake, sourdough cake, easy coffee cake, cinnamon coffee cake, breakfast cake, sourdough discard recipe