This Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler is a warm and cozy treat! It combines sweet apples with a crunchy topping that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to use your sourdough discard!
When I make this, my house smells heavenly! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. Trust me, you’ll want to make this every apple season! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for great flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together. If you don’t have fresh apples, canned apples can be used, but adjust the sugar since they’re often sweetened.
Sourdough Discard: The star of the show! If you don’t have sourdough discard, plain yogurt or buttermilk can work as a substitute. They’ll add a nice tang that’s also delicious.
Granulated Sugar: Feel free to use brown sugar instead of white for a deeper flavor. Maple syrup is also an option, just reduce the milk slightly to keep the batter consistency.
Melted Butter: You can swap this for coconut oil or even applesauce for a lighter version. This will change the flavor slightly but will still be yummy!
How Do I Get the Perfect Cobbler Topping?
The batter topping is crucial for a good cobbler! Here’s how to ensure it’s light and flaky:
- Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Over-mixing can make it dense.
- When spooning the batter over the apples, don’t worry about covering them entirely; some gaps are okay! This allows the apples to peek through and caramelize beautifully.
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking. The sugar will create a crunchy contrast to the soft fruit.
Give it time to cool slightly before serving. It helps the cobbler set, making it easier to serve!

Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 4 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 4 medium apples)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For The Cobbler Batter:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, from your starter)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the batter)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling on top
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes for baking. You can expect a total of about 1 hour! After baking, let your cobbler cool slightly before serving for the best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or similar-sized baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium bowl, add the sliced apples, 1/4 cup of sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together so that the apples are well-coated. Set this mixture aside for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Make the Cobbler Batter:
While the apples are mingling, prepare your cobbler batter. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined. Then, stir in the milk and melted butter until the batter is smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Cobbler:
Pour the apple mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then, carefully spoon the cobbler batter over the top of the apples. Don’t worry about covering every inch; it’s perfectly fine if some apples are still showing.
5. Bake:
Optional: Sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for that lovely crunch. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the topping is golden brown, and you see the edges bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This slightly cooling time helps it set up for serving. Enjoy your warm cobbler with two scoops of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream on top!
Enjoy your delightful and tangy Sourdough Discard Apple Cobbler! The sourdough discard adds a lovely depth to the batter, making this cobbler uniquely delicious.
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for This Cobbler?
Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well. Feel free to experiment with whatever apples you have on hand to find your favorite flavor combination.
Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar?
Yes! You can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar for a deeper flavor. If you prefer a natural sweetener, maple syrup can also work—just reduce the milk slightly to maintain the batter consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling and the batter separately the day before; just combine and bake when you’re ready. This dish is best served fresh, but it’ll still taste great reheated!
