Sourdough Discard Apple Crisp is a cozy baked dessert filled with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and topped with a golden, buttery sourdough crumble. The subtle tang from sourdough discard adds depth to the sweet, caramelized apple filling, creating a perfectly balanced flavor. This comforting dessert is perfect for fall, holidays, or anytime you want a warm homemade treat.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 5 cups apples, peeled and diced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Sourdough Crisp Topping
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold butter, cubed
- ½ cup sourdough discard
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and vanilla. Toss until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping
In a bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter with a fork or fingers until crumbly. Stir in sourdough discard until clumps form.
Step 3: Assemble
Sprinkle the sourdough crisp mixture evenly over the apple filling, covering completely.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until topping is golden brown and apples are bubbling.
Step 5: Cool Slightly
Let crisp rest 10–15 minutes before serving so filling thickens slightly.
Variations
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to topping
- Use pears mixed with apples
- Add caramel drizzle after baking
- Use maple syrup instead of sugar
- Add raisins or cranberries
Cooking Notes
- Use firm baking apples like Granny Smith
- Dice apples evenly for consistent texture
- Cold butter ensures crumbly topping
- Do not overmix topping
- Bake until filling bubbles at edges
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
- Add whipped cream
- Drizzle with caramel sauce
- Serve with custard sauce
- Sprinkle extra cinnamon
Tips
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking
- Reheat in oven for best texture
- Store covered refrigerated up to 4 days
- Freeze baked crisp up to 2 months
- Bake in ramekins for individual servings
Prep Time / Bake Time / Chill Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 40 minutes
Chill Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 340 per serving
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 52g
FAQs
Can I use sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, unfed starter works perfectly.
Can I make apple crisp ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Can I freeze apple crisp?
Yes, freeze baked or unbaked up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Sourdough Discard Apple Crisp is warm, buttery, and filled with tender spiced apples under a golden sourdough crumble. This comforting dessert is an easy and delicious way to use sourdough discard while creating a classic homemade favorite perfect for sharing.