This Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler is a yummy way to use up leftover sourdough starter. It’s packed with sweet, juicy apples and a crunchy topping that’s hard to resist!
Every bite is like a warm hug on a plate. I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—it’s the perfect treat for any day! 🍏🍨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the recipe! Unfed sourdough discard adds great flavor. If you’re out of discard, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar tanginess and moisture.
Apples: I love Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness. You can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious. Mixing different types adds depth to the flavor!
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred, but you can substitute it with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just remember that it might slightly alter the taste.
Milk: Any milk works here—cow’s milk, almond milk, or oat milk can substitute. Adjust the amount until your batter reaches a thick but spreadable consistency.
How Do You Properly Prepare the Apples?
Preparing the apples is crucial for the cobbler’s flavor. Here are the steps:
- Start by peeling and coring the apples to remove any tough bits.
- Slice them thinly and evenly for uniform cooking.
- Mix them with lemon juice to brighten their flavors and prevent browning.
- Add spices and sugar to create a sweet and spicy mix that pairs perfectly with the buttery topping.
Let the apples sit for a bit after coating them in sugar and spices. This will help draw out their juices, resulting in a flavorful filling.
Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cobbler:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed, discard portion)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk (or as needed to mix)
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Serving:
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. It’s perfect for a cozy dessert after dinner or a sweet treat at any time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a medium-sized baking dish (about 8×8 inches or an oval equivalent) and butter it well to prevent the cobbler from sticking.
2. Prepare the Apples:
In a mixing bowl, toss your thinly sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, 1/4 cup of the sugar, and vanilla extract. Make sure the apples are well coated. Set them aside for a few minutes to let the flavors mingle while you make the batter.
3. Make the Cobbler Batter:
In another large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, flour, baking powder, salt, the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, and the melted butter. Gradually add in milk and mix until you have a thick but spreadable batter. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a little more milk!
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the apple mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, take spoonfuls of the batter and drop it over the apples. It’s okay if there are gaps; the batter will spread while baking.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the cobbler in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling up around the edges.
6. Cool and Serve:
Take the cobbler out of the oven and let it cool slightly. If you’d like, dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch. Serve warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finish!
This rustic cobbler is a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of apples combined with the unique tang from the sourdough discard. Enjoy every heavenly bite!
Can I Use Different Fruits for This Cobbler?
Absolutely! While apples are delicious, you can also use peaches, blueberries, or cherries, depending on the season and your preference. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Sourdough Discard?
If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can replace it with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or even apple sauce for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind it will alter the taste slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Make This Cobbler Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the rest of your ingredients are also gluten-free if needed!
