Name: Delicious Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake to Impress Your Guests
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Salted or unsalted, based on taste); 1 cup White Sugar; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract; 2 large Eggs (Room temperature); 1 cup Whole Milk (Can substitute with almond milk); 1 cup Sourdough Discard or Active Starter (Either can be used); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 3 cups All-purpose Flour; 1 cup Brown Sugar; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon; 1 cup Additional Flour

Every time I bake with sourdough, I’m reminded of the little surprises it brings to the table, like how a humble discard can transform into something extraordinary. Enter the Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake—a delightful treat that’s perfect for any gathering. This quick and easy recipe captures the fluffy texture of a traditional cake with the unique tang of sourdough, making it a true crowd-pleaser for breakfast or dessert. The best part? It comes together in under an hour, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Whether you pair it with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or indulge as an afternoon snack, this cake is bound to become a family favorite. Curious to see just how simple it is to whip up this delightful dessert? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in just an hour, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Unique flavor: The sourdough discard adds a delightful tang that’s unmatched in traditional cakes, making it a memorable treat.

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings, this cake appeals to everyone, ensuring you impress your guests every time.

Versatile and adaptable: Feel free to experiment with fruits like blueberries or spices like nutmeg to make it your own. For more delicious options, don’t miss out on my Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins!

Perfect pairing: Best served warm with coffee or as an afternoon snack, this cake will become a staple in your kitchen!

Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Butter – Provides richness and moisture; salted or unsalted can be used based on your taste.
White Sugar – Helps create a tender crumb while adding sweetness.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor and adds a lovely aroma to the cake.
Eggs – Acts as a binder, contributing to tenderness and structure.
Whole Milk – Provides moisture; can be replaced with almond milk, but this may impact fluffiness.
Sourdough Discard or Active Starter – Leavens the cake while contributing a unique tang; you can interchangeably use either.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent that aids the cake in rising beautifully.
All-purpose Flour – Essential for the cake’s structure and texture.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor to the cinnamon sugar mix.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth and sweetness, making the cake comforting and flavorful.

For the Topping

Additional Flour – Binds with sugar and cinnamon to create a delicious crumb topping.

This Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake is a delightful way to make use of leftover starter while ensuring a fantastic flavor and texture that’s bound to impress friends and family!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). As the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and generously grease it with butter or cooking spray to ensure a non-stick finish. This step is crucial for your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake, as a well-prepped pan allows for easy lifting and slicing once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon using a fork or whisk until well blended. Pour in melted butter and mix until you have a crumbly, wet mixture. Set this delicious cinnamon sugar filling aside; it will create a delightful layer of flavor in your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and white sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat the ingredients on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is an essential step to incorporate air, ensuring your coffee cake has a tender and airy texture.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the vanilla extract, followed by the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Next, pour in whole milk and your sourdough discard or starter, mixing everything until well combined. The addition of these moist ingredients transforms the cake into a rich batter full of flavor, setting the stage for your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the baking powder and all-purpose flour over the wet mixture in the bowl. Mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. The batter should be thick but smooth, ready to hold the delightful cinnamon sugar layers.

Step 6: Layer the First Batter
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. This initial layer forms the base of your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake, so take your time to ensure an even spread. A nice, flat surface will ensure your cake rises evenly and bakes beautifully.

Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Layer
Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the first batter layer. Take care to distribute it evenly, allowing the sweet and spiced goodness to meld into the cake as it bakes. This addition will create a delightful burst of flavor in every bite of your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake.

Step 8: Finish with Remaining Batter
Pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon sugar layer, again smoothing it out gently with a spatula. This sealing layer helps to lock in the delicious flavors below, ensuring the cinnamon swirl is perfectly incorporated within the final cake.

Step 9: Top with Cinnamon Sugar
Sprinkle the last of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the batter, ensuring an even covering. This finishing touch provides a lovely, sweet crust that contrasts perfectly with the moist cake, making your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake not only taste incredible but also look enticing.

Step 10: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes, and set a timer so you can savor that tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 11: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period allows the cake to set perfectly, making it easier to slice. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve warm, perhaps alongside a steaming cup of coffee for a delightful treat!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during busy mornings or gatherings! You can mix the batter and assemble the layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to ensure it stays fresh. For the cinnamon sugar filling, you can prepare it a day early as well, storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to bake, just allow the batter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven—this helps maintain its fluffy texture. Following these steps will yield a cake just as delicious as if you made it fresh that day!

Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful recipe with these fun twists and substitutions!

Fruit-Infused: Add fresh blueberries or diced apples to the batter for a burst of fruity flavor. The juiciness of the fruit complements the cake’s richness beautifully.
Spice Up: Try incorporating nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a more aromatic experience. These spices add depth and warmth to your coffee cake.
Chocolate Delight: Stir in chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist. This variation adds a delightful richness and makes the cake feel even more indulgent.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a pleasing crunch and added flavor. The nuts provide a satisfying textural contrast to the cake’s softness.
Dairy-Free: Substitute almond or oat milk for whole milk to make the cake dairy-free. While it changes the flavor slightly, your cake will still turn out deliciously moist.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and ensure that the butter is dairy-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this scrumptious cake!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This takes the coffee cake to a new level for those with gluten sensitivities.
Cinnamon Swirl: Add an extra layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture in the middle of the batter for an eye-catching swirl. This adds visual appeal and a delightful flavor explosion!

Remember, baking is all about experimenting and finding what delights your taste buds. For more scrumptious ideas, why not check out my Sugar Cookie Cake or try whipping up some Mini Pineapple Cheesecakes? Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful for your morning or afternoon treats.

Refrigerator: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just ensure it’s covered tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: Wrap slices of the sourdough discard coffee cake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to a month. This way, you can enjoy individual portions whenever the craving strikes!

Reheating: Thaw frozen slices at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then warm them in the microwave or oven for a few minutes to regain their fluffy texture.

Expert Tips for Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Grease Generously: Always ensure your baking pan is well-greased to prevent sticking, resulting in perfect slices of Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients at room temperature, particularly butter and eggs, enhances the cake’s fluffiness and overall texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix until just combined.
Cinnamon Sugar Layer: Distributing the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly between layers is crucial for that delightful flavor with every bite.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing to achieve better structure and perfect pieces.

What to Serve with Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake

Savor the moments with perfect companions for your luscious cake, transforming every bite into a delightful experience.

Rich Coffee: Start the day right with a hot cup of coffee. The bitterness of the brew perfectly contrasts the cake’s sweetness, enhancing every delicious morsel.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch. The bright flavors and textures balance the cake’s richness and make it a lighter option for brunch.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Elevate your serving by pairing with a dollop of cinnamon-infused whipped cream. This creamy addition mirrors the cake’s flavors while adding a luxurious touch.
Chocolate or Vanilla Ice Cream: After a satisfying meal, serve your cake with a scoop of ice cream. The cold creaminess rounds out the warm, spiced cake beautifully, creating a heavenly dessert duo.
Chai Tea: Opt for a warm cup of chai tea alongside your coffee cake. The spiced notes in the tea enhance the cake’s cinnamon filling, making it an exquisite pairing for a cozy afternoon.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola over your cake or enjoy it on the side. The texture contrasts beautifully, adding bites of nutty goodness that complement the cake’s soft crumb texture.
Savory Quiche: If you’re hosting a brunch, serve this cake alongside a light quiche. The savory dish balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a well-rounded meal that delights all.

Elevate your gathering with these pairings, turning your Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake into a beloved centerpiece!

Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of sourdough discard should I use for this recipe?
You can use any sourdough discard that’s at room temperature. However, if you’re unsure about the freshness, look for discard that doesn’t have a strong odor or dark spots that indicate spoilage. Using a healthy starter ensures your cake has the delicious tang and rise needed for a tasty coffee cake.

How should I store leftover sourdough discard coffee cake?
Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but be sure to cover it tightly to maintain moisture. This way, you’ll always have a delightful treat on hand!

Can I freeze sourdough discard coffee cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then warm in the microwave or oven for a freshly-baked feel.

What should I do if my coffee cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix only until just combined. Also, ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as an expired leavening agent can affect the rise. For next time, try using room temperature ingredients for better incorporation.

Is this coffee cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This sourdough discard coffee cake is nut-free, but do ensure the butter and milk you use are free from cross-contamination with nuts if you’re cooking for someone with a severe allergy. If substituting for dairy, consider alternatives like oat or coconut milk, ensuring they are also nut-free if necessary.

Can I add fruits to the sourdough discard coffee cake?
Very much so! You can add fresh fruits like blueberries, apples, or even chopped nuts to the batter for a tasty variation. Just be sure to reduce the flour slightly to accommodate the extra moisture from the fruit. Adding fruit not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful fresh texture to each bite!