Sourdough bread making is a rewarding but sometimes messy process. One of the inevitable byproducts is sourdough discard – that extra sourdough starter you need to remove to keep your starter healthy. But don't toss it! This seemingly useless byproduct is the secret ingredient to incredibly moist and flavorful baked goods, including this amazing sourdough discard apple fritter bread. This recipe transforms your discard into a delicious treat, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor.
What is Sourdough Discard?
Before diving into the recipe, let's clarify what sourdough discard is. It's the portion of your active sourdough starter you discard before feeding it. While it's not as bubbly and active as your main starter, it still possesses valuable leavening properties and contributes a unique tangy flavor to baked goods. Instead of discarding it, repurpose it for delicious recipes like this apple fritter bread!
Why Use Sourdough Discard in Baking?
Using sourdough discard in baking offers several advantages:
- Reduces Food Waste: It's a sustainable way to use a byproduct of sourdough baking, reducing waste.
- Adds Flavor: The tangy flavor of sourdough discard adds complexity and depth to baked goods.
- Improves Texture: Sourdough discard contributes to a moist and chewy texture, especially in breads and muffins.
- Enhances Nutrition: Sourdough discard contains beneficial bacteria and yeasts that can enhance the nutritional value of your baked goods.
Sourdough Discard Apple Fritter Bread Recipe
This recipe utilizes the unique qualities of sourdough discard to create a bread that's both incredibly flavorful and remarkably moist.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup active sourdough discard (fed 4-6 hours prior)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, milk, egg, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using).
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits besides apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable. You can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, cranberries, or peaches. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
How can I tell if my sourdough discard is active?
Active sourdough discard will be slightly bubbly and have a slightly sour smell. If it's completely inactive (no bubbles or sour smell), it may not leaven the bread as effectively. Feeding your discard a few hours before using it will help reactivate it.
Can I freeze the leftover bread?
Yes, this bread freezes well. Slice it and wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or gently reheat in the oven or toaster oven.
What if I don't have any nuts?
The nuts are optional; feel free to omit them if you don't have them on hand, or substitute with other ingredients like raisins or cinnamon chips.
Can I make this bread in a muffin tin?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for muffins. Simply fill greased muffin cups about ⅔ full and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
This sourdough discard apple fritter bread is a delicious and resourceful way to utilize your sourdough starter discard. Enjoy this flavorful treat that's both satisfying and sustainable!
