There’s something irresistible about warm, freshly made doughnut holes coated in sparkling sugar. The first time I made Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes, I was searching for a fun way to use leftover sourdough discard without baking another loaf of bread.

The result was even better than I expected. Each bite was soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden with a crisp exterior and a sweet sugar coating. They disappeared almost as fast as I could make them. Now these Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes are one of my favorite treats for weekend breakfasts, holiday mornings, and afternoon snacks because they’re simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes

These Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes use simple pantry staples to create soft, airy centers with beautifully golden exteriors, finished with a generous coating of granulated sugar just like the ones in the photo.

Ingredient Notes

• Sourdough Discard: Unfed sourdough discard adds a mild tangy flavor while keeping the dough soft and tender.

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates the perfect balance of structure and softness for light, fluffy doughnut holes.

• Instant Yeast: Provides a reliable rise, giving the doughnut holes their airy texture while the sourdough discard contributes flavor.

• Whole Milk: Warm milk activates the yeast and creates a rich, tender dough.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and creates the classic sugary coating after frying.

• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness and helps produce a soft interior.

• Egg: Gives the dough structure while creating a light, tender crumb.

• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

• Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, is ideal for frying until the doughnut holes are evenly golden.

• Extra Granulated Sugar: Roll the warm doughnut holes in sugar immediately after frying so the coating sticks evenly and creates the classic bakery-style finish.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll create Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes that are light, fluffy, golden brown, and coated in sparkling sugar. They’re perfect for sharing at breakfast, brunch, parties, or whenever you’re craving a homemade sweet treat.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes

Making Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes is easier than you might think. The dough comes together with simple ingredients, rises until light and fluffy, and fries into perfectly golden, bite-sized treats coated in sparkling sugar.

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• Warm milk
• Sourdough discard
• Instant yeast
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Softened butter

Whisk until smooth.

Add the flour and salt, then mix until a soft dough forms.

2. Knead the Dough

• Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.

• Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, soft, and slightly elastic.

• If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 6 minutes.

3. First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.

• Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Doughnut Holes

• Gently punch down the risen dough.

• Pinch off small portions of dough, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them into smooth balls.

• Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

• Cover loosely and let them rest for 20 to 30 minutes while the oil heats.

5. Fry Until Golden

• Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

• Carefully fry the doughnut holes in small batches for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally until evenly golden brown.

• Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate for a few seconds.

6. Coat in Sugar

• While the doughnut holes are still warm, roll each one generously in granulated sugar until completely coated.

• Serve warm for the softest texture and best flavor.

Variations

One of the best things about Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes is how easy they are to customize. With just a few simple changes, you can create different flavors for every season or occasion.

• For a classic cinnamon sugar version, mix ground cinnamon into the granulated sugar before coating the warm doughnut holes. If you prefer a sweeter finish, drizzle them with vanilla glaze, chocolate glaze, maple glaze, or a simple cream cheese glaze after they’ve cooled slightly.

• You can also add flavor directly to the dough by mixing in a little lemon zest, orange zest, pumpkin pie spice, or apple pie spice. For a fun surprise, fill the cooled doughnut holes with raspberry jam, strawberry preserves, pastry cream, chocolate hazelnut spread, or dulce de leche using a piping bag fitted with a small filling tip.

• For special occasions, decorate them with colorful sprinkles, crushed cookies, toasted coconut, or finely chopped nuts after glazing. These easy variations make Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes perfect for holidays, birthday parties, brunches, and dessert platters.

What to Serve With Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes

These homemade doughnut holes pair perfectly with breakfast drinks and other homemade baked treats.

Serve Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes with Lavender Matcha for a cozy café-style breakfast. The floral notes pair beautifully with the sweet sugar coating.

For another delicious sourdough breakfast treat, Sourdough Discard Coffee Cake Muffins create a bakery-inspired spread that’s perfect for brunch or holiday mornings.

For another crowd-pleasing sourdough dessert, Baked Sourdough Discard Powdered Sugar Donuts offer a lighter baked alternative while still delivering classic bakery flavor.

Other delicious serving ideas include:

• Hot coffee
• Vanilla latte
• Chai tea
• Hot chocolate
• Cold milk
• Fresh berries
• Fruit salad
• Greek yogurt
• Whipped cream fruit dip
• Caramel sauce

Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or an afternoon treat, Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes are always a hit. Their soft, fluffy centers, crisp golden exterior, and sparkling sugar coating make every bite taste like it came fresh from your favorite neighborhood bakery.

How to Store Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes

These Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes are best enjoyed fresh, but they also store well for a few days, making them perfect for preparing ahead.

• Allow the doughnut holes to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Warm them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes before serving.

• To freeze, arrange the cooled doughnut holes in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Thaw them at room temperature, then warm briefly and roll them in a fresh coating of granulated sugar if needed.

These Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy centers and crisp golden exteriors coated in sparkling sugar. They’re an easy and delicious way to use leftover sourdough discard while creating a homemade treat everyone will love.

Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, holiday gatherings, or an afternoon snack, these bite-sized doughnut holes are guaranteed to disappear quickly. With their simple ingredients, classic bakery flavor, and endless customization options, Sourdough Discard Doughnut Holes are a recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.

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