Sourdough Discard Apple Crisp

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.

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