Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy donut filled with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar. These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are not just a treat; they are a delightful hug for your taste buds. Dusted in sweet cinnamon sugar, they offer a delightful crunch on the outside, while the inside remains soft and pillowy, making every bite an experience to savor.
Now, picture this: you’re standing in your kitchen, flour dusting your nose and a mischievous grin on your face as you prepare these delightful bites. The anticipation builds as the scent wafts through your home, reminding you of cozy mornings spent with family. Whether it’s brunch with friends or a spontaneous dessert craving, these donut bites are pure magic that will make any occasion special.
Why You'll Love This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites
- These incredible Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites transform simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
I’ll never forget the first time I made these bite-sized delights. My kids declared me the “Donut Queen” after just one taste, and I’ve been basking in that royal title ever since.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Sourdough Discard: Use active discard for the best flavor; it adds unique depth to your donuts.
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All-Purpose Flour: Try to use unbleached flour for a more natural flavor and texture.
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Sugar: Granulated white sugar keeps it classic and enhances sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon.
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Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key here; opt for fresh cinnamon for a richer flavor profile.
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Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh to provide that perfect rise in your donut bites.
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Salt: A pinch brings balance to the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
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Milk: Whole milk gives these bites an extra creamy texture; feel free to substitute if needed.
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Egg: One large egg helps bind everything together for that perfect donut structure.
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Butter: Melted butter adds richness; don’t skimp on this ingredient!
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Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: Combine sugar with ground cinnamon before tossing the finished bites for added sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it lightly with nonstick spray. This ensures easy release after baking!
Combine all dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well until evenly distributed—this step is crucial for consistent flavor throughout each delicious bite.
In another bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: sourdough discard, milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth. The mixture should have a creamy consistency without any lumps.
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to over-mix; we want that light and airy texture! Stop mixing as soon as no dry flour is visible—trust me on this one!
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cavity about two-thirds full to allow room for rising during baking. Bake in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
While those little gems cool slightly on a wire rack, combine sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Roll each warm donut bite generously in this sweet mixture until fully coated—because who doesn’t love extra sweetness?
There you have it! Your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are ready to be devoured by eager friends or family…or maybe just you alone while hiding behind the fridge!
You Must Know About Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites
- This showstopping Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by warming your sourdough discard gently before mixing in your dry ingredients. This improves flavor absorption. Then, fry the donut bites until golden brown, creating a delightful crunch. Lastly, coat them in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm for extra adherence and flavor burst.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the spices! Instead of just cinnamon, try nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. You can also add chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough for fun surprises in every bite. Drizzling a glaze over them post-coating? Absolutely encouraged!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover donut bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For reheating, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving unless you prefer chewy donuts—no judgment here!
Chef's Helpful Tips for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites
- This professional-quality Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made these delightful donut bites, my friends declared me a culinary wizard! Their laughter turned into cheers as they devoured every last crumb, making me feel like a superstar chef in my very own kitchen.
FAQ
What is sourdough discard and why use it in donut bites?
Sourdough discard refers to the portion of dough you remove before feeding your sourdough starter. Using it not only reduces waste but adds a unique tangy flavor to recipes like these donut bites, elevating their taste profile.
Can I bake instead of frying the donut bites?
Yes! If you’re looking for a healthier option, bake your donut bites at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary based on your oven.
How can I make these donut bites vegan?
You can easily swap out dairy products with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk or coconut yogurt, and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to keep these delightful treats vegan-friendly without losing flavor.
What if I don’t have sourdough discard on hand?
If you’re fresh out of sourdough discard, fear not! You can substitute with equal parts plain yogurt or buttermilk mixed with flour to maintain similar consistency and moisture levels in your donut bites.
Conclusion for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites
In summary, these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are not just delicious; they also make use of what would otherwise go to waste. With easy customization options and straightforward storage tips, you’ll impress family and friends alike while enjoying every delectable bite yourself! So roll up those sleeves and get ready to whip up a batch that will disappear faster than you can say “cinnamon sugar.”
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are a delightful fusion of warm, fluffy goodness and the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, providing a crispy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior that will leave you craving more. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, these donut bites transform humble ingredients into a showstopper dessert that your family and friends will adore.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 donut bites 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (unbleached)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for coating)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Additional sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, combine sourdough discard, milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until no dry flour remains.
- Fill each muffin tin cavity about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown; check with a toothpick for doneness.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack before rolling in cinnamon sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 108
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating nutmeg or cardamom into the batter. - To make these vegan, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives and use flax eggs. - Store leftover donut bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.







