Sourdough Apple Fritter Discard Loaf Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of warm apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. This Apple Fritter Discard Loaf brings that nostalgic aroma to life while giving a delicious purpose to your sourdough starter discard. It’s moist, sweet, warmly spiced, and finished with a light glaze for the perfect anytime treat.

This recipe is a clever twist on traditional apple fritters, turning them into an easy-to-make quick bread using sourdough discard. Whether you’re trying to reduce waste or looking for a new way to use your discard, this loaf is a flavorful solution. And don’t worry—it’s beginner-friendly and doesn’t require a rise!

Ideal for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this loaf pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, yet how impressive it looks and tastes. Let’s dive in!

🕒 Cooking Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 55–60 minutes

• Cooling & Glazing: 20 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

• Servings: 8–10 slices

📝 Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 1/2 cup sourdough discard (unfed)

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2/3 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1/3 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Apple Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 1–2 medium apples)

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

Streusel Topping:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp butter, melted

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp milk

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

👩‍🍳 How to Make Apple Fritter Discard Loaf

Step 1: Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Apple Filling

In a small bowl, toss diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Streusel

In another small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add sourdough discard, milk, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 5: Layer the Loaf

Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan. Top with half the apple mixture. Add the remaining batter and top with the remaining apples. Gently swirl with a butter knife. Sprinkle streusel evenly on top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking.

Step 7: Cool & Glaze

Let loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Whisk together glaze ingredients and drizzle over the cooled loaf.

💡 Notes

• Best Apples: Use crisp, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith.

• Discard: Your sourdough discard should be unfed and at room temperature.

• Storage: Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Freeze: Freeze loaf (unglazed) for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

• Optional Add-Ins: Chopped nuts or raisins can be mixed into the apple filling for extra texture.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this loaf without sourdough discard?

Yes, simply substitute the discard with 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt or applesauce.

Is this recipe overly sweet?

It’s sweet like a coffee cake. You can reduce the sugar slightly in the batter or glaze if desired.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.

What kind of milk can I use?

Any milk works—dairy, almond, oat, or soy.

🍎 Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 10 slices)

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This Apple Fritter Discard Loaf is a delicious treat meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Individuals with food allergies should check all ingredients carefully, especially for gluten, dairy, eggs, and nuts. If you have dietary restrictions or health conditions, consult a healthcare professional before trying new recipes.