As the scent of warm cinnamon wafts through your kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a surge of comfort and nostalgia. This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is not just any loaf; it’s a delightful way to use up that leftover sourdough starter while pampering your taste buds. One of the best things about this recipe is its quick prep time, allowing you to savor freshly baked goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect as a cozy breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack—ideal for those who aren’t fans of fast food. With its moist texture and swirling cinnamon charm, each slice is bound to warm your heart. So, are you ready to transform your kitchen scraps into something spectacular? Let’s get baking!
Why Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread?
Reduce food waste: Transform your leftover sourdough starter into a delicious treat, making every bite a sustainable delight.
Quick prep time: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this warm loaf in the oven in no time!
Heavenly aroma: The sweet scent of cinnamon fills your home, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it plain, with butter, or alongside a hot beverage like coffee or tea for the ultimate experience.
Crowd favorite: Its comforting flavors make this bread a hit at brunches, family gatherings, or simply as a weekday snack. Plus, you might also enjoy this Herb Cheese Bread or indulge with a slice of Strawberry Banana Bread for a sweet twist!
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
• Sourdough Discard – Adds tanginess and moisture; can substitute with buttermilk for a similar tangy flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute part with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, noting it may affect texture.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens and enhances flavor depth; white sugar can be used for less molasses flavor.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; use high-quality Ceylon cinnamon for better flavor.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; check freshness for best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutes typically needed.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness; flax egg can be substituted for a vegan option.
• Milk – Provides moisture and richness; whole milk is preferred for tenderness, but any milk works, including non-dairy alternatives.
• Melted Butter – Adds flavor and moisture; can substitute with oil for a dairy-free option.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; optional to omit if unavailable.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and decorative finish; optional; can omit for a less sweet bread.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple and enjoyable steps to create your own Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan generously with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal once your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is baked. Take a moment to gather your ingredients and baking tools, as this will make the next steps even smoother.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Mix them well until fully blended, creating a fragrant and sweet cinnamon sugar mixture that will elevate the swirl in your bread. Set this aside for later, as it will add delightful warmth and sweetness to the layers of your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, the remaining 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Ensure everything is well incorporated, as this will serve as the foundation for the texture of your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread. The dry mix should appear light and fluffy, ready to absorb the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, pour in the wet ingredients: 1 beaten egg, 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of sourdough discard. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, creating a rich and creamy base that will bring moisture and flavor to your bread.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixture
Gently fold the prepared wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you’re aiming for just a moistened batter, which will yield a tender crumb for your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread. The ingredients should be blended, with a few lumps remaining, signalling it’s ready for the next step.
Step 6: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter, allowing it to create a sweet layer of flavor. This will encourage a delightful swirl within your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread, making every slice a treat for the taste buds.
Step 7: Add Remaining Batter and Sugar
Carefully add the remaining batter on top of the cinnamon sugar layer in the loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly again. Once done, top this layer with the leftover cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring not to leave any part of the bread unadorned by sweetness. It should resemble a beautifully layered dessert before baking.
Step 8: Swirl and Create the Marbled Effect
Using a butter knife, gently swirl through the batter in the pan to create a marbled effect. This will mix some of the cinnamon sugar into the batter while maintaining distinct layers, promising a visually appealing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread once baked. Aim for a few swirls to create aesthetics without overmixing.
Step 9: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of warm cinnamon will fill your kitchen, and you might find it hard to resist peeking before it’s finished.
Step 10: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. After cooling, carefully transfer it to a wire rack. If desired, prepare a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a bit of milk to drizzle over the cooled bread for an added touch of sweetness, enhancing your delightful treat.
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Variations
Feel free to experiment with your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread to create a personal touch that excites your palate!
- Whole Wheat Twist: Substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, nutritious loaf.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor twist that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- Fruitful Delight: Stir in some chopped apples or raisins into the batter for a natural sweetness and chewy texture.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft bread.
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and butter for a delicious vegan-friendly treat.
- Swirled Cream Cheese: Add dollops of sweetened cream cheese to create a luscious, creamy swirl within your bread.
- Extra Glaze: Drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and almond milk over the top after cooling for an elegant finishing touch.
- Cocoa Infusion: For a chocolatey twist, mix in cocoa powder with the dry ingredients to introduce a rich, decadent flavor to the bread.
With these variations, your bread will delight in ways that suit any occasion! You might also enjoy serving it alongside some Shrimp Scampi Bread for a savory option or treat friends to a lovely afternoon with a slice or two of Hot Honey Flatbread Pizza for vivid flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread
Room Temperature: Store your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its soft texture.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the bread for 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the bread in slices or whole. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, bringing back that freshly baked warmth and aroma.
What to Serve with Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread?
Imagine enjoying a slice of this cinnamon-spiced delight alongside comforting accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures.
- Creamy Butter: A pat of real butter melts beautifully into warm bread, creating a rich, soothing flavor that elevates each bite.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The lightness and acidity of fresh fruits brighten the meal, balancing the sweetness of the bread with a refreshing twist.
- Coffee or Chai Latte: A steaming cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully with this spiced loaf, enhancing the cozy morning experience.
- Yogurt with Honey: The creaminess of yogurt drizzled with honey adds a touch of sweetness and makes a delightful addition to breakfast or brunch.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup elevates the cinnamon flavor and adds a delightful sweetness that feels indulgent yet comforting.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled over yogurt creates a delightful texture contrast while adding a nutty flavor that complements the bread’s softness.
Lastly, serve this treat with a side of love and laughter, and watch it transform any morning into a cherished moment!
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients (including the cinnamon sugar) and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, add the cinnamon sugar layer, and create those beautiful swirls. Make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before baking to ensure it rises properly. With this simple prep ahead, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm cinnamon bread with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder for optimal rise. If your bread doesn’t rise as expected, check its potency first.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just moistened; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Treat the Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread batter gently!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This saves time and helps flavors develop.
- Double Trouble: If you’re doubling the recipe, ensure your oven has enough space to bake both loaves without crowding.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap some all-purpose flour for whole wheat for added nutrition, but remember it might affect texture.
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of sourdough discard should I use?
Absolutely! Any sourdough discard works, but aim for one that’s at least a week old for optimal flavor. If yours is excessively watery or has dark spots all over, it’s best to discard it and use a fresher batch.
How should I store the Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread?
You can store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresher for longer, wrap it well and refrigerate it for up to 4 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for the best texture!
Can I freeze Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread?
Yes! For freezing, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place it in a freezer bag. This way, it’ll last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat slices in the oven to restore that delightful, baked warmth.
What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
If you encounter a dense loaf, check your baking powder’s freshness. To test it, add a teaspoon of baking powder to a small amount of vinegar; if it bubbles vigorously, it’s still good! Additionally, try not to overmix your batter, as this can also hinder rising.
Are there dietary considerations for this bread?
Very! This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is vegetarian-friendly, and you can easily make it vegan by substituting a flax egg for the egg and using non-dairy milk and oil instead of butter. Always check your sugar if allergies are a concern, as powdered sugar can sometimes contain cornstarch.
Can I add nuts or fruits to the recipe?
Definitely! You can fold in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or even add raisins for a fruity twist to your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread. Just remember that additional ingredients may change the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it!
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Combine 1/3 cup of brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon to create cinnamon sugar.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 beaten egg, 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of sourdough discard.
- Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just moistened, retaining a few lumps.
- Pour half of the batter into the greased loaf pan and sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon sugar over it.
- Add the remaining batter on top and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Gently swirl the batter with a butter knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Optionally glaze with powdered sugar and milk.
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