If you’ve ever wondered what to do with that extra sourdough starter you’re discarding, this Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. It’s a beautiful way to transform the tangy magic of sourdough discard into a moist, tender loaf filled with inviting swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of warmth, sweetness, and a subtle sourdough depth that feels like a cozy hug. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or just looking for a fresh spin on cinnamon bread, this recipe turns simple pantry staples into something truly spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret behind this recipe’s perfect texture and flavor. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to complement the sourdough discard, ensuring the bread is tender with just the right touch of sweetness and spice.
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your bread, providing structure and crumb.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, and lends a lovely caramel note.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: This helps keep the bread light and fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for balance and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the bread’s richness.
- 3/4 cup milk: Moistens the batter for a tender crumb without weighing it down.
- 1/3 cup melted butter: Adds a velvety texture and buttery flavor that makes every bite a delight.
- 1/2 cup sourdough discard: The star ingredient, bringing a subtle tang and boosting both flavor and texture.
- For the swirl: 1/3 cup brown sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon: The perfectly sweet and spicy swirl that turns this bread into a showstopper.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your batter is mixed. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan generously with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the bread slides out beautifully once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the 1/3 cup brown sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon. This mixture will create the magical swirls that give the bread its irresistible flavor and texture contrast.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening and seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the bread.
Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the egg until smooth. Add the milk, melted butter, and sourdough discard, mixing everything until fully blended. The sourdough discard adds moisture and a subtle tang that makes this recipe stand out.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently fold them together. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until you no longer see streaks of flour. Overmixing can make the bread tough, and we want fluffy and tender every time.
Step 6: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Layers
Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan, then sprinkle most of the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over it. Add the remaining batter on top, followed by the rest of the cinnamon sugar. This layering will give your bread beautiful pockets of cinnamon sweetness.
Step 7: Swirl the Batter
Take a knife or skewer and gently swirl it through the batter in the pan about 6 to 8 times, creating a marbled cinnamon effect without mixing everything together.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bread for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should turn a warm golden brown, filling your kitchen with that irresistible cinnamon aroma.
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can elevate the presentation, adding a touch of sweetness and a pretty finish. For an extra indulgence, spread some creamy butter or cream cheese on a warm slice.
Side Dishes
This cinnamon bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For brunch, serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try toasting slices and topping them with nut butter and sliced bananas for a delicious twist. It also makes a fantastic base for French toast—just soak slices in your favorite egg mixture and cook until golden for a comforting weekend treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cinnamon bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the moisture and softness.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the bread in foil and place it inside a freezer-safe bag. Frozen slices or a whole loaf can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
Warm slices in the toaster or oven for a few minutes to revive their fresh-baked texture. A quick zap in the microwave also works, but slightly toasting afterward ensures the perfect balance of warmth and firmness.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and denser texture. You might want to increase the milk slightly to keep the bread moist.
What if I don’t have sourdough discard on hand?
You can substitute it with an equal amount of yogurt or buttermilk to maintain moisture and a slight tang, but the unique sourdough flavor will be milder.
Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg, use plant-based milk, and swap butter for vegan margarine or coconut oil. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
How long will this bread stay fresh?
At room temperature, fresh bread stays soft and tasty for about 3 days. After that, it’s best stored in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter?
Definitely! Fold in a handful of chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins along with the wet ingredients for a delightful texture and added flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Recipe is a beautiful way to turn that leftover starter into a comforting, flavorful loaf that everyone will love. It’s simple to make, wonderfully versatile, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I can’t wait for you to bake this at home and enjoy the cozy cinnamon swirls and moist crumb that make it a real crowd-pleaser. Go ahead and give it a try—you’re going to fall in love!
Print
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is a delightful quick bread that makes excellent use of your sourdough starter discard. Packed with warm cinnamon sugar swirls and a moist, tender crumb, this easy-to-make loaf is perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack. The bread combines the tang of sourdough with the sweet and spicy flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, baked to golden perfection in a loaf pan.
Ingredients
Bread Batter
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar (divided)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sourdough discard
Cinnamon Swirl
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.
- Mix Swirl Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup brown sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar swirl mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining brown sugar (approximately 2/3 cup), baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg, then add milk, melted butter, and sourdough discard. Whisk the mixture until smooth and thoroughly combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Layer Batter and Swirl: Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the majority of the cinnamon sugar swirl mixture over this layer. Add the remaining batter on top, then sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar evenly over the surface.
- Create Swirls: Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through the batter layers to create attractive cinnamon swirls within the bread.
- Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Notes
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread soft and moist.
- Use room temperature wet ingredients for even mixing and better rise.
- Check for doneness starting at 45 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze slices for longer storage and toast before serving.
