Apple fritters are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with a crispy, golden-fried dough. But what if you could transform your sourdough discard into a delicious apple fritter batter?
This apple fritter discard recipe is the perfect way to reduce waste while making a scrumptious snack or breakfast item that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Using sourdough discard not only adds a subtle tanginess but also improves the fritters’ lightness and depth.
Whether you have leftover discard from your regular baking or want to try a creative twist, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through why this recipe is so special, provide a detailed list of ingredients and equipment, and share step-by-step instructions to ensure your fritters come out perfect every time.
Plus, I’ll include tips, variations, nutrition facts, and serving suggestions to inspire your culinary creativity. Let’s get frying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s an excellent way to use up your sourdough discard, reducing kitchen waste and adding great value to your baking routine.
The natural fermentation in the discard gives the fritters a wonderful depth of flavor that traditional recipes often lack.
Second, these apple fritters are tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, perfectly balancing sweet and tart apple bits with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re quick to prepare and don’t require any complicated techniques or equipment.
Finally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily make them vegan by substituting ingredients, or adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your preferences.
Whether you want a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a fun dessert, these fritters have got you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed or fed)
- 1 large apple, peeled and finely chopped (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup milk (dairy or plant-based such as almond or oat milk)
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Large skillet or deep frying pan
- Thermometer (optional, for oil temperature)
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels for draining
- Cooling rack (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and finely chop your apple into small pieces. Set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg (or flax egg), then add the sourdough discard, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk well to combine.
- Form the batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Gently fold until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the fritters light.
- Add the apples: Fold in the chopped apples evenly throughout the batter.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), or until a small drop of batter sizzles and floats to the surface.
- Fry the fritters: Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry 3-4 fritters at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook until golden: Fry each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip gently with a slotted spoon to cook evenly.
- Drain and cool: Remove fritters from oil and drain on paper towels or a cooling rack to remove excess oil.
- Serve warm: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
“For extra flavor, soak the apple pieces in a little lemon juice and cinnamon before adding them to the batter to prevent browning and enhance the spice.”
- Vegan option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg and choose plant-based milk.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom for an exotic twist.
- Apple alternatives: Swap apples for pears or even berries for a different fruit fritter experience.
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be mindful of batter thickness.
- Baking instead of frying: For a lighter option, bake fritters at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per fritter (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 22 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sugar | 8 g |
Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Apple fritters are best enjoyed warm, ideally fresh from the fryer. For a classic touch, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with warm maple syrup.
You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
For a breakfast treat, pair these fritters with a cup of hot coffee or chai tea. They also complement savory dishes like scrambled eggs or a light salad if you want to balance sweet and savory flavors in your meal.
If you love experimenting with flavors, try topping your fritters with a cinnamon glaze or a simple lemon glaze for added zing. These fritters also freeze well—just reheat in a toaster oven or microwave for a quick snack anytime!
Conclusion
Using sourdough discard to make apple fritters is a fantastic way to reduce waste while creating a delicious treat that’s both comforting and flavorful. This recipe highlights the unique tangy notes from the discard, balanced by the sweet, spiced apples and the crispy golden crust.
The straightforward steps and approachable ingredients make it perfect for bakers and cooks of all levels.
Whether you’re looking for a new breakfast idea, a fun snack, or a creative way to use up your sourdough discard, these apple fritters deliver satisfaction in every bite. Plus, with plenty of variations and serving ideas, you can customize them to your taste and dietary needs.
Don’t forget to check out other creative recipes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, Black Bean Rice Burger Recipe Vegan Made Easy and Delicious, and Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy for more inspiration in your kitchen!
📖 Recipe Card: Apple Fritter Discard Recipe
Description: A quick and delicious apple fritter recipe using sourdough discard. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and lightly fried to golden perfection.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 8 fritters
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix sourdough discard, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Whisk in egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in diced apple gently.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of batter into hot oil and fry until golden, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain fritters on paper towels.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Carbs: 27g
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