Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful way to use up that sourdough discard, you’ve come to the right place! This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is not just a treat; it’s a hug in cake form. The combination of rich butter, fluffy vanilla cake, and sweet cinnamon sugar makes this recipe a favorite in my home. Whether it’s a busy weekday breakfast or a special gathering with friends, this coffee cake brings smiles and satisfaction to any table.

I love how easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for those mornings when you need something comforting yet quick. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will make everyone eager to indulge!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this delicious coffee cake in the oven before you know it!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good slice of coffee cake, making it an instant hit at family gatherings or playdates.
• Make-Ahead Delight: Bake it the night before and enjoy fresh slices for breakfast or snack time throughout the week.
• Deliciously Fluffy: The combination of sourdough discard and fluffy vanilla makes each bite melt in your mouth.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 15 generous servings, this cake is ideal for sharing with friends or bringing to potlucks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand! These components come together beautifully to create a rich and buttery coffee cake that everyone will love.

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

One of the best things about this Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to fit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Fruit Upgrades: Mix in blueberries or apples for a fruity twist that adds natural sweetness.
• Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by creaming together the softened butter and white sugar in a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a light and fluffy cake. Use an electric mixer if you have one, but a good old-fashioned whisk will do just fine too!

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugar are creamy, mix in the eggs one at a time. Then add the vanilla extract. This not only enriches the batter but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that hints at what’s to come.

Step 3: Incorporate Dairy and Sourdough Discard

Next, pour in the whole milk followed by your sourdough discard. Stir gently until everything is combined. The sourdough discard adds moisture and depth of flavor while keeping your cake tender.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the baking powder and all-purpose flour. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix here; we want our coffee cake to be soft and tender!

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and melted butter for that delicious topping. This mixture will create a sweet crumbly layer on top of your cake that contrasts beautifully with its softness.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour half of your batter into a greased baking pan. Sprinkle half of the topping over it before adding the remaining batter on top. Finally, add any leftover topping mixture over everything. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!

Allow your coffee cake to cool slightly before slicing into generous pieces. Enjoy warm with coffee or save some slices for later—if there are any left!

This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is sure to become a beloved recipe in your home just as it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these helpful tips, you’ll create a coffee cake that’s not only delicious but also impressive!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter and fluffier cake.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined ensures your coffee cake stays tender. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture that isn’t as enjoyable.
• Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary; use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if it comes out clean. This way, you avoid under or overbaking.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your cake to cool for at least 10-15 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for future treats!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Presenting your sourdough discard coffee cake is just as important as baking it! Here are some creative ideas to make this dish shine at your breakfast table or dessert spread.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and an elegant finish.
• Fresh berries: Serve with a handful of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and freshness that complements the cake’s richness.
• Whipped cream: For an extra indulgent treat, top each slice with dollops of non-dairy whipped cream for creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet coffee cake, balancing the meal beautifully.
• Greek yogurt: A side of plain or flavored Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, making it a more filling breakfast option.
• Honey or maple syrup: Drizzling honey or maple syrup on top enhances sweetness while providing a lovely drizzle that looks great on the plate.
• Coffee or tea: Nothing pairs better with a slice of coffee cake than a warm cup of your favorite brew. The rich flavors will complement each other perfectly!

Enjoy making this delightful sourdough discard coffee cake! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is not just a delicious treat; it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cut the coffee cake into individual slices for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Alternatively, warm in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about making this Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake? Here are some answers!

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Absolutely! If you have an active sourdough starter, you can substitute it directly for the sourdough discard in this recipe.

How long does Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake last?

When stored properly, this coffee cake can last up to 3 days at room temperature or a week when refrigerated.

Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What can I serve with Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake?

This delightful cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You could also serve it with fresh fruit or whipped topping for an extra treat!

Can I add nuts or fruits to the recipe?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake as I am! It’s such a wonderful way to use your sourdough discard while creating a scrumptious dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!