These Baked Sourdough Discard Powdered Sugar Donuts are fluffy and fun! Made with sourdough discard, they are a tasty way to use what you usually throw away.
I love how light they are, and the powdered sugar on top makes them feel like a treat. Honestly, I can’t resist sneaking one (or two) right off the tray! 🍩
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of our donuts! It’s what gives them a unique flavor and texture. If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute.
Butter: I prefer using unsalted butter because I can control the salt level. If you’re out of butter, oil (like vegetable or coconut oil) can work as a substitute. Just use a little less than the amount called for.
Milk: Any milk you have on hand will do! If you’re dairy-free, almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk can easily replace it.
All-Purpose Flour: While all-purpose flour is great, you could use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or a gluten-free blend if you need a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture.
How Can You Perfectly Bake Donuts Without Frying?
Baking donuts can be tricky if you’re used to frying them, but it’s simple with the right technique. The key is getting the batter just right and not overfilling the pan.
- Preheat your oven thoroughly; this ensures even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the baking time! Check for the golden color and use a toothpick to test doneness. Remove them from the oven as soon as they’re done to avoid drying out.
- Let them cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. This helps the sugar adhere better and gives a nice presentation.
You’ll soon find that baked donuts can be just as delicious as their fried counterparts! Enjoy your baking adventure!
Baked Sourdough Discard Powdered Sugar Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed or discard)
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll bake the donuts in 12-15 minutes. Overall, you can enjoy your homemade donuts in about 30 minutes from start to finish. Easy and so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, lightly grease your donut pan or spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This will help your donuts pop right out once they’re baked!
2. Mixing the Wet Ingredients:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk until everything is nice and smooth. It should have a lovely creamy texture!
3. Combining the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will help to aerate the flour and mix in the leavening agents evenly.
4. Bringing It All Together:
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your donuts.
5. Filling the Donut Pan:
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter. This will give them room to rise without spilling over.
6. Baking Time:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, watching closely until the donuts turn lightly golden. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
7. Cooling Off:
Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps keep them fluffy!
8. Dusting with Sugar:
Once your donuts are completely cool, it’s time for the fun part! Generously dust the tops of the donuts with powdered sugar. You can do this by placing the sugar in a sifter or using a fine mesh sieve for an even coating.
9. Serving & Storing:
Enjoy your freshly baked sourdough donuts immediately, or store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They make a delightful treat any time of day!
Enjoy your light, fluffy baked sourdough discard powdered sugar donuts! 🍩
Can I Use Active Sourdough Starter Instead of Discard?
Yes, you can use active sourdough starter! Just be aware that your donuts may have a slightly different flavor and texture. If you use active starter, you might want to reduce the amount of sugar slightly, as active starter can add a bit more tang.
How Can I Make These Donuts Gluten-Free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend meant for baking. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of traditional donuts. Keep in mind that the consistency might vary slightly, but they should still turn out delicious!
What Should I Do If My Batter is Too Thick?
If your batter seems too thick, simply add a splash of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. This will help ensure your donuts are light and fluffy instead of dense.
Can I Freeze the Leftover Donuts?
Absolutely! Let the donuts cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and dust with powdered sugar just before serving to keep that fresh look!