Sourdough Discard Blueberry Donuts are soft, fluffy, and full of juicy blueberries in every bite. They are a perfect way to use extra sourdough discard while making a bakery-style treat at home. These donuts have a tender crumb, a light sweetness, and a gentle depth of flavor from the sourdough discard that makes them taste special but not sour. Fresh or frozen blueberries add natural sweetness and little bursts of juice that keep the donuts moist and flavorful. A simple vanilla glaze on top gives them that classic donut shop finish and makes them look beautiful for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. This recipe is great for home bakers because it does not need yeast or long rising times like traditional donuts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These donuts are soft and tender with real blueberry flavor in every bite. The sourdough discard adds richness and helps create a fluffy texture without yeast. Baking instead of frying makes them easier and lighter while still delicious. They look pretty, taste fresh, and feel like a treat from a coffee shop. They are also a smart way to use sourdough discard instead of throwing it away. The recipe uses simple ingredients and clear steps, making it good for both beginner and experienced bakers. They store well and can be enjoyed for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, do not thaw)
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, milk, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Add dry ingredients into wet ingredients and mix gently just until combined. Do not overmix or the donuts may become dense. Fold in blueberries carefully so they do not burst too much and color the batter.
Step 2: Fill the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan well. Spoon or pipe batter into each cavity, filling about ¾ full. Smooth the tops lightly.
Step 3: Bake
Bake 14–18 minutes or until tops spring back and a toothpick comes out clean. Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
Step 4: Glaze
Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth. Dip cooled donuts into glaze or drizzle over the top. Let glaze set before serving.
Variations
- Add lemon zest to the batter for a lemon-blueberry flavor
- Mix white chocolate chips for extra sweetness
- Use a cream cheese glaze instead of vanilla glaze
- Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking
- Swap blueberries for raspberries or chopped strawberries
Cooking Notes
- If using frozen blueberries, keep them frozen to avoid purple batter
- Do not overmix or donuts become heavy
- Grease pan well so donuts release easily
- Check early so they do not overbake and dry out
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slightly warm for best texture
- Pair with coffee, tea, or milk
- Add fresh berries on the side
- Great for brunch tables and gatherings
Tips
- Use a piping bag for neat filling
- Room temperature ingredients mix better
- Double glaze for bakery-style look
- Store covered to keep them soft
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Donut)
- Calories: 210
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 4g
FAQs
Can I fry these donuts?
This batter is best for baked donuts. Frying needs a thicker dough.
Will they taste sour?
No, the discard adds flavor but not a strong sour taste.
How do I store them?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze without glaze and add glaze after thawing.
Conclusion
Sourdough Discard Blueberry Donuts are a simple and delicious way to turn extra starter into a treat everyone will enjoy. They are soft, fruity, lightly sweet, and easy to make with basic ingredients. Perfect for breakfast or sharing, they bring bakery-style comfort to your home kitchen while helping reduce food waste. Once you try them, you will love keeping this recipe in your sourdough rotation.