Sourdough Discard Apple Fritters are a cozy, bakery-style treat that turns extra sourdough discard into something truly special and comforting. These fritters are packed with tender apple pieces, warm cinnamon flavor, and a soft fluffy inside wrapped in a lightly crisp golden exterior. A simple sweet glaze soaks into the warm fritters and gives them that classic apple fritter finish everyone loves from donut shops and bakeries. This recipe is perfect for fall baking, weekend breakfasts, or anytime you want a homemade sweet that feels nostalgic and satisfying. Using sourdough discard not only reduces waste but also adds a gentle depth of flavor that makes these fritters taste more complex and homemade. They come together with simple ingredients and are easier than traditional yeast donuts, making them ideal for home bakers who want big flavor without complicated steps.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These apple fritters are soft, flavorful, and filled with real apple pieces that stay tender after frying. The sourdough discard adds subtle richness without making them sour, and the warm spices make them comforting and aromatic. They are quicker than yeast donuts and do not require rising time, which makes them perfect for busy days or last-minute baking. They taste like bakery treats but are made easily at home with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–4 tablespoons milk (as needed)
- 1 to 1½ cups finely chopped apples (peeled)
- Oil for frying
For the Glaze - 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, mix sourdough discard, egg, melted butter, vanilla, and sugar until smooth and well combined. Stir in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, mixing gently until a thick batter forms. Add milk a little at a time if needed to loosen the batter slightly, but keep it thick. Fold in the chopped apples so they are evenly distributed, making sure each fritter will have apple in every bite.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat to 350°F (175°C). Proper oil temperature ensures the fritters cook through while staying crisp outside and fluffy inside. If the oil is too cool, fritters absorb oil and become heavy, and if too hot they brown too fast.
Step 3: Fry the Fritters
Drop spoonfuls of batter carefully into the hot oil, flattening slightly with the spoon. Fry in small batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Glaze
Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth. While fritters are still warm, drizzle or dip them in glaze so it melts slightly over the surface and creates that classic finish.
Variations
- Add raisins or chopped pecans for texture
- Mix in a pinch of apple pie spice for deeper flavor
- Toss in cinnamon sugar instead of glaze
- Add a caramel drizzle for dessert-style fritters
Cooking Notes
- Dice apples small so they cook fully
- Maintain steady oil temperature
- Do not overcrowd the pan
- Drain well before glazing
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm for best texture
- Pair with coffee or tea
- Great for brunch spreads
- Perfect for fall gatherings
Tips
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- Stir batter gently to keep fritters tender
- Glaze while warm so it sticks
- Reheat in oven or air fryer to crisp again
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 230
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 4g
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake spoonfuls at 375°F until golden, though the texture will be more like muffins than fritters.
Will they taste sour?
No, the discard adds flavor depth but not a strong sour taste.
Can I store leftovers?
Store covered at room temperature for a day or refrigerate up to 3 days.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze without glaze and add glaze after reheating.
Conclusion
Sourdough Discard Apple Fritters are a delicious way to use up discard while making a treat that feels special and homemade. With tender apples, warm spices, and sweet glaze, they bring bakery-quality flavor to your kitchen with simple steps and ingredients. They are comforting, easy, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.