This Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler is a tasty way to use up extra sourdough starter! It blends sweet, juicy apples with a crispy, buttery topping that makes every bite delightful.
It’s like a warm hug in dessert form! I love serving it with a scoop of ice cream on top—because who can resist that melty goodness? 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great for their balance of tart and sweet. If you prefer sweeter apples, Fuji or Gala are also tasty options. Just make sure to peel and core them for a smooth texture in your cobbler.
Sourdough Discard: Unfed sourdough starter is perfect here, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk. Both options add a nice tangy flavor!
Butter: I love using unsalted butter for precise control over the sweetness. However, if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut oil or a vegan butter stick works well too!
Milk: Any type of milk, including almond or oat milk, can be substituted in the recipe for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options.
How Do I Make Sure My Cobbler Topping Turns Out Flaky?
To achieve that perfect crumbly topping, focus on handling the butter properly. Cold butter is crucial! Here’s how:
- Cut the cold butter into small pieces before adding it to your dry ingredients.
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix in the butter until you see pea-sized clumps. This is what gives the topping its flakiness.
- Don’t overwork the batter after adding the milk and vanilla; mix just until combined.
Taking these steps ensures your cobbler has that delightful texture to soak up all that apple goodness!
Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
For the Cobbler Topping:
- 1/2 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Topping:
- Vanilla ice cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. You’ll have a delicious dessert ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake!
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a mixing bowl, take your diced apples and add 1/4 cup of sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss everything together until the apples are well-coated, then set this mixture aside.
3. Make the Cobbler Topping:
In another large bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. Next, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
4. Combine with Milk:
Now, stir in the milk and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork it!
5. Assemble the Cobbler:
Take a greased baking dish (around 8×8 inches works well) and pour the apple mixture into it. Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler batter over the apples. It’s okay if some apples peek through; it will spread a bit while baking.
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Look for the topping to turn golden brown and the apples to be tender.
7. Serve Up Some Happiness:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the cobbler cool for just a few minutes. Serve it warm, and don’t forget the scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra special treat!
Enjoy your delicious Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler!
Can I Use Other Fruits for This Cobbler?
Absolutely! You can substitute the apples with other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or pears. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose!
What Should I Do with Leftover Cobbler?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving, adding a touch of ice cream for an extra treat.
Can I Make This with Gluten-Free Flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend! Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum or add a teaspoon to ensure your topping has the right texture.
How Can I Thicken the Apple Filling More?
If you prefer a thicker filling, simply increase the cornstarch to 2 tablespoons or add a bit of flour to the apple mixture. This will help create a more substantial sauce when baked!