Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful way to use that sourdough discard sitting in your fridge, look no further! This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s rich and buttery with a fluffy vanilla cake base that’s bursting with cinnamon sugar goodness. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself on a busy weekday morning, this recipe has got you covered.

I love how versatile this coffee cake is. You can enjoy it as a sweet breakfast, an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of coffee, or even as a dessert after dinner. It’s truly the perfect easy sourdough breakfast for a crowd!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have this cake ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: The delicious flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for quick breakfasts all week long.
• Deliciously moist: The combination of sourdough discard and butter creates a wonderfully moist texture.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients will feel like visiting an old friend—simple and wholesome! You probably have most of them in your pantry already.

For the Cake

• ½ cup butter (1 stick, softened)
• 1½ cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup sourdough discard or active starter
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 3 cups all-purpose flour

For the Topping

• 1½ cup brown sugar
• 5 Tablespoons flour
• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 6 Tablespoons butter (melted)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Fruit twist: Fold in fresh berries or diced apples into the batter for a fruity surprise.
• Chocolate lover’s delight: Add chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the get-go. While it warms up, you can prepare your batter!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cake nice and airy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. Mixing these well adds moisture and flavor to your cake, creating that wonderful aromatic base we all love.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Stir in the whole milk and sourdough discard until everything is well combined. The sourdough discard adds depth of flavor while keeping the cake moist—a true win-win!

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until everything is combined.

Step 6: Prepare Topping Mixture

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter for the topping. This mixture will give your cake that delightful sweet crunch on top!

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Pour half of the batter into a greased baking pan. Sprinkle half of the topping mixture over it. Then spread the remaining batter on top followed by the rest of the topping mixture.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before slicing—if you can wait that long!

This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

When you’re ready to whip up this delicious coffee cake, a few helpful tips can make your baking experience even more enjoyable!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and results in a fluffier cake. Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for the best texture.
• Don’t skip the cinnamon sugar layer: Adding a generous amount of cinnamon sugar between the layers of batter creates delightful pockets of flavor throughout the cake. It’s what makes every bite just melt in your mouth!
• Check for doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cake as it approaches the end of the baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• Let it cool before slicing: While it’s tempting to cut into your warm coffee cake right away, allowing it to cool for about 10-15 minutes helps ensure that it holds its shape and makes for cleaner slices.
• Store properly for freshness: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness. This will keep your coffee cake moist and delicious!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

This sourdough discard coffee cake is not only great on its own but can also be enhanced with some thoughtful presentation ideas that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and sweetness without overpowering the flavors of the cake.
• Fresh berries: Serve with a side of mixed fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, balancing out the sweetness of the coffee cake.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits brings a healthy element and bright flavors that complement the rich coffee cake beautifully.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing this dish with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a cozy breakfast or snack option.
• Oatmeal: For those who want something heartier alongside their coffee cake, serving it with a warm bowl of oatmeal can add substance while still being comforting.

Enjoy your baking adventure! With these tips and serving suggestions, your sourdough discard coffee cake will surely be a hit at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for easy access to delicious breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the coffee cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the coffee cake into individual slices before freezing.
• Place slices in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard in my Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake?

Yes! If you have an active sourdough starter, you can substitute it directly for the sourdough discard. Just ensure it’s fed and bubbly for the best flavor.

How long does Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake last?

When stored properly, this coffee cake can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Can I make this Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk or oat milk.

What can I serve with Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake?

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a dollop of yogurt on the side. It’s an ideal treat for breakfast or afternoon snacking!

Final Thoughts

This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is not just a delightful treat; it’s a wonderful way to use your sourdough discard creatively! Its rich flavor and fluffy texture make it special enough for gatherings and cozy mornings alike. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!