Name: Sourdough Discard Donuts – A Delicious Waste-Free Delight
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 200 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk (Warm, about 110°F); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast (Make sure it's fresh.); 1 cup sourdough discard (Use any fresh sourdough discard.); 2 large eggs (For a vegan version, replace with flax eggs.); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (Melted; coconut oil for dairy-free.); 3-4 cups all-purpose flour (Bread flour can for chewier donuts.); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream (Milk can be swapped in if needed.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Almond extract can be used for a twist.); a pinch salt (Balances out sweetness.)

The intoxicating aroma of fresh donuts wafts through my kitchen, sparking memories of cozy weekends spent baking with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Delicious Sourdough Discard Donuts—a delightful way to turn kitchen scraps into something truly special. These beginner-friendly treats are not just a fun weekend project; they are also a fantastic way to minimize waste while impressing family and friends with their unique tangy flavor and airy texture. Whether you’re craving a classic glazed donut or looking for a healthier, customizable option, these donuts can easily adapt to your dietary preferences, including gluten-free and vegan variations. Curious how to create these mouthwatering morsels in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Make Sourdough Discard Donuts?

Deliciously sustainable: Transform your sourdough discard into mouthwatering donuts, reducing kitchen waste with every bite.
Customizable features: These donuts cater to all dietary preferences with gluten-free and vegan options, ensuring everyone’s satisfied.
Beginner-friendly steps: No fancy equipment necessary! Just simple ingredients and straightforward techniques make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
Crowd-pleasing treat: Perfectly fluffy and sweet, they’re guaranteed to impress family and friends at brunch or any gathering.
Time-efficient: With a bit of chilling time, you can whip up these delightful donuts in just a few hours! Be sure to enjoy them fresh, perhaps with a side of coffee or fruit salad for a complete experience. Check out my Potato Cheese Donut recipe for another irresistible treat!

Sourdough Discard Donut Ingredients

Unlock the secret to making scrumptious Sourdough Discard Donuts with these simple ingredients!

For the Donuts:

Sourdough Discard – Adds a delightful tangy flavor while reducing kitchen waste. Use any fresh sourdough discard for the best results.
Whole Milk – Ensures a soft texture and adds richness. Feel free to substitute with any milk you prefer.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough, balancing the tang from the sourdough.
Active Dry Yeast – Creates a lovely rise and airy consistency. Make sure your yeast is fresh for optimal results.
Large Eggs – Enhances moisture and richness in the donuts. For a vegan version, replace with flax eggs.
Unsalted Butter – Infuses a rich buttery flavor; also contributes to the texture. Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure essential for donuts. You can use bread flour for a chewier bite.
Kosher Salt – Elevates flavors and enhances all the ingredients.

For the Glaze:

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze and gives a smooth finish.
Heavy Cream – Creates a rich glaze texture. Milk can be swapped in if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and aromatic depth to the glaze. Try almond extract for a twist!
Pinch of Salt – Balances out the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Discard Donuts

Step 1: Warm Milk
Begin by heating 1 cup of whole milk in the microwave for about 20 seconds until it’s warm but not boiling, ideally around 110°F. Pour the warm milk into a mixing bowl; this will help to activate the yeast and create a cozy dough for your sourdough discard donuts.

Step 2: Mix Yeast
In the bowl with the warmed milk, add 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the top. Allow this mixture to sit for approximately 5 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to give the donuts that delightful rise.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the yeast is frothy, stir in 1 cup of sourdough discard, 2 lightly beaten large eggs, and 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter along with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Mix until well-blended and creamy, creating a flavorful base that perfectly balances the tang from the sourdough and the sweetness of the sugar.

Step 4: Add Flour
Gradually incorporate about 3 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour into the mixture in three parts. Use a wooden spoon or a stand mixer on low speed to combine until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Knead for 4-5 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky for those mouthwatering sourdough discard donuts.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Transfer your kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor development. Chilling the dough will enhance the taste and make it easier to roll out to the perfect thickness later.

Step 6: Roll and Cut
After chilling, generously flour your work surface and roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick. Using a donut cutter, cut out the classic donut shapes, then place the cutouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them. This step ensures that your donuts are easy to fry later without sticking together.

Step 7: Let Rise
Cover the cut donuts with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm area for about 45-60 minutes, or until they become puffy and nearly double in size. This crucial rising time gives your sourdough discard donuts their fabulous airy texture.

Step 8: Heat Oil
While the donuts rise, heat about 4 inches of frying oil in a deep pot or a heavy skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Use a candy or deep-frying thermometer to monitor the temperature, as maintaining consistent heat will ensure your donuts fry evenly and achieve that golden brown color everyone loves.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency, which will beautifully coat your sourdough discard donuts with a sweet finishing touch.

Step 10: Fry Donuts
Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil, frying until they are golden brown on both sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried donuts to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This ensures they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Step 11: Glaze Donuts
While still warm, dip each donut into the prepared glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place glazed donuts on parchment-lined sheets to set, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor and richness. Enjoy these delectable sourdough discard donuts fresh for the ultimate treat!

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Discard Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Refrigerator: Store the donuts in the fridge for up to 5 days, ensuring they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen donuts at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving, enhancing the delightful experience of these sourdough discard donuts.

Sourdough Discard Donuts Variations

Feel free to get creative with your donuts; these variations will allow you to explore different flavors and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these donuts suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Vegan: Replace large eggs with flax eggs; use almond milk instead of milk and coconut oil in place of butter for a delightful dairy-free treat. Discover the joy of baking without animal products!
Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in cocoa powder into the dough to transform these donuts into an indulgent chocolatey delight that’s sure to please.
Zesty Lemon: Enhance the glaze with fresh lemon zest for a bright, refreshing twist that will awaken your taste buds and add a burst of flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar: After frying, roll the donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a warm, sweet touch that adds a nostalgic vibe, reminiscent of a classic donut shop treat.
Filled Donuts: Pipe in your favorite fruit jam or pastry cream after frying for a delicious surprise—a fruity bite awaits with every munch!
Nut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of your favorite nut butter to the dough for a rich flavor and added creaminess that will leave you craving more.
Savory Twist: Try incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for an unexpected savory variant that pairs beautifully with sweet dips or spreads. For an ah-mazing savory snack, check out my Potato Cheese Donut recipe!

Embrace the world of customizable donuts, and let your imagination lead the way!

Make Ahead Options

These Sourdough Discard Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps and refrigerating it overnight, which not only enhances the flavor but also makes rolling and cutting the donuts a breeze. Once you’re ready to enjoy them, simply roll and cut the donuts, let them rise for about 45-60 minutes, and proceed with frying and glazing. To maintain their delightful texture, serve them warm right after frying for the best results. With these make-ahead options, you’ll be treated to a homemade delight with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Sourdough Discard Donuts

Bring your delightful donut experience to life with these mouthwatering pairings that will elevate your brunch spread.

Rich Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the donuts, balancing their fluffy texture with a robust flavor.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, colorful fruits add a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet donuts, enhancing the overall experience with freshness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Indulge in a decadent treat by serving the donuts with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful taste sensation.
Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl brings a healthy twist to your meal, offering a delicious and visually appealing counterpart to the donuts.
Herbal Tea: An aromatic herbal tea with hints of lemon or chamomile pairs beautifully, soothing your palate and enhancing the cozy brunch atmosphere.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Elevate your donuts by adding a touch of warm maple syrup, enhancing their sweetness while introducing a rich, complex flavor.

These pairings promise to create a complete and satisfying meal that will have everyone eager for seconds!

Expert Tips for Sourdough Discard Donuts

Perfect Yeast Activation: Make sure your milk is warm around 110°F; too hot can kill the yeast, resulting in flat donuts.
Don’t Over-Knead: Keep your dough smooth and slightly sticky; over-kneading can make them tough.
Chill for Flavor: Allow proper chilling time in the fridge to develop a richer flavor and make rolling easier.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F for optimal frying; too cool will lead to greasy donuts.
Glaze While Warm: Ensure the donuts are still warm when glazing for better adhesion and that irresistible shine.

Sourdough Discard Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of sourdough discard should I use for the donuts?
Absolutely! You can use any fresh sourdough discard for these donuts. Just make sure it hasn’t been sitting in the fridge for too long—it’s best to use it within a week for optimal flavor and activity.

How should I store leftover donuts?
To keep your Sourdough Discard Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have extras, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re sealed well to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze my Sourdough Discard Donuts?
Absolutely! Here’s how to freeze them: First, place the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or microwave them for 10-15 seconds to warm them up.

What should I do if my donuts aren’t rising properly?
If your donuts aren’t rising as expected, check that your yeast is fresh and activated properly. The milk needs to be around 110°F for optimal yeast activation—too hot will kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it. If the dough seems too dense after kneading, let it rise in a warm area longer than the suggested time until it doubles in size.

Are there any dietary considerations for these donuts?
Very! If you have allergies, you can easily customize these donuts. For a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs, use almond milk instead of whole milk, and substitute butter with coconut oil. Always check your ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.