Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are not only incredibly easy to make but also a wonderful way to use up that sourdough discard sitting in your fridge. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy donut, coated in sweet cinnamon sugar—it’s pure bliss!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a special addition to your next family gathering, these little bites of happiness are sure to impress. They transform simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me; once you make these, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, anyone can whip these up in no time.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love them! Get the whole family involved in rolling them in cinnamon sugar.
• Perfectly Portable: These donut bites are great for on-the-go snacking or as a sweet treat for school lunches.
• Endlessly Adaptable: You can customize the flavors to suit your taste or dietary needs easily.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the batter ahead of time and bake them fresh when you need them!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to get started!

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (unbleached)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for coating)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Additional sugar for coating

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and try out some variations that suit your taste.

• Add Some Zest: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the batter for a fresh twist.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for unique flavor combinations.
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Fold in mini chocolate chips for an indulgent surprise inside each bite!
• Nutty Goodness: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to give a delightful crunch.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This step is crucial as it ensures even baking and prevents your delicious donut bites from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This dry mix forms the base of our donut bites and will help give them structure while also adding flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the sourdough discard, milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. Mixing these wet ingredients well is important because it helps create that light and fluffy texture we all love in donuts.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mix until no dry flour remains. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps those donut bites tender and airy.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Tin

Fill each muffin tin cavity about two-thirds full with batter. This allows enough room for the donut bites to rise without overflowing.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick into one; it should come out clean. This step ensures every bite is perfectly cooked through!

Step 7: Cool and Coat

Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before rolling each warm donut bite in cinnamon sugar. This final touch adds an irresistible sweetness that makes these treats truly special.

And there you have it! Your very own batch of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites is ready to be enjoyed by friends and family—or maybe just by yourself! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites

Making these delightful donut bites is a breeze, especially with a few insider tips to elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh sourdough discard: The fresher your discard, the more active the yeast will be, resulting in fluffier donut bites with a lovely rise.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently folding the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined will keep your donut bites light and airy. Overmixing can lead to dense treats.
• Let them cool slightly before coating: Allowing the donut bites to cool for a few minutes prevents the sugar from melting and ensures a perfect crunchy coating that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is classic, adding nutmeg or cardamom to your sugar mixture can bring an exciting twist to the flavor profile of these treats.
• Try different coatings: Besides cinnamon sugar, consider rolling them in powdered sugar or even a mixture of cocoa powder and sugar for a chocolatey treat!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites

These scrumptious donut bites are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative ideas on how to serve them!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate creates a rich contrast that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the softness of the donut bites.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, bananas, and apples offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donut bites and adds vibrant color to your presentation.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruits for a wholesome side that balances out the richness of the donut bites while adding a bit of tanginess.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing these treats with a warm cup of coffee or tea enhances their comforting flavors, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert experience, serve warm donut bites alongside scoops of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The combination is simply heavenly!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create not only delicious moments but also beautiful memories around your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are not only a delightful treat fresh from the oven but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them perfect for snacks or breakfast on busy mornings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donut bites to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Ensure the donut bites are fully cooled.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen bites to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Consider sprinkling with additional cinnamon sugar after reheating for that fresh-baked flavor!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that this may slightly change the texture. It might make your donut bites denser, so consider mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balanced approach.

How do I make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites gluten-free?

To make these delicious donut bites gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. This will help maintain the fluffy texture while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities.

What can I do if my sourdough discard smells strong?

A tangy smell is normal due to fermentation. If it smells off or rancid, it’s best to discard it. Use fresh discard that has been fed recently for the best flavor in your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites.

Can I add spices or flavors to my donut bites?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding nutmeg, vanilla extract, or even chocolate chips to customize your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites as much as I do! They’re not only an excellent way to use up sourdough discard, but they also bring warmth and sweetness into any gathering or cozy afternoon snack. So roll up your sleeves, get those ingredients ready, and savor every bite of these charming treats. Happy baking!