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Patrick Simon October 26, 2025

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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home, especially when it’s warm, spiced, and sweet. Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is the perfect addition to your breakfast table or afternoon tea spread. With its luscious, swirled cinnamon filling and a soft, moist texture, this bread is a great way to use up that sourdough starter discard, allowing you to create something delightful without wasting any ingredients. Imagine slicing into this bread, the sweet smell wafting through the air as you enjoy it fresh out of the oven, it’s a simple pleasure that brings warmth to any gathering.

If you love making homemade bread regularly, this modern stainless steel bread maker makes the process incredibly easy.
👉 You can check it out here on Amazon: Cuisinart Bread Maker

What Makes This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread Special

This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is more than just a delicious treat; it’s a thoughtful way to minimize waste in the kitchen. You’ll appreciate the moist, tender crumb that results from using sourdough discard, and the cinnamon sweetens the deal beautifully.

Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

  • Perfect for breakfast or snack time
  • Uses leftover sourdough starter, reducing food waste
  • Easy to make in just a few simple steps
  • The delightful cinnamon swirl adds an irresistible flavor
  • Great for sharing with friends and family

Gather These Ingredients

To create this scrumptious Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread, you’ll need a few key ingredients that work together to create a perfect loaf. If needed, feel free to make some swaps; for instance, you can easily adjust the sugar for a touch of sweetness that suits your taste.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 cup sourdough discard
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1/8 tsp vanilla extract

To keep your sourdough discard fresh and ready for baking, a sourdough starter jar kit is extremely helpful.
👉 Here’s the one I recommend: Sourdough Starter Jar Kit

Step by Step

Making your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is a straightforward and rewarding process. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes. Just follow these easy steps:


  1. Preheat the oven to 350 F (175 C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan; if you only have an 8×5 inch pan, bake the loaf for an additional 5 minutes.



  2. Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup of brown sugar with 1 tbsp of cinnamon. Set it aside to sprinkle later.



  3. Make the cinnamon bread batter: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.



  4. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and sourdough discard until smooth.

    For the smoothest batter and perfect mixing, I love using a Danish dough whisk.👉 You can find it here on Amazon: Danish Dough Whisk

  5. Combine the mixtures: Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a sourdough hook or spoon. Stir until just moistened, being careful not to overmix.



  6. Layer the batter: Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it to the corners with a spoon or spatula.



  7. Add the cinnamon swirl: Sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top of this layer.



  8. Finish layering: Pour the remaining batter on top and spread it gently. Top with the leftover cinnamon sugar mixture.



  9. Swirl the dough: Use a sharp knife to gently draw an ‘S’ pattern through the batter to create a beautiful marbled effect.



  10. Bake the bread: Place the loaf in the oven and bake on the middle rack for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.



  11. Cool and glaze: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. For an optional glaze, whisk together 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 tbsp of milk, and 1/8 tsp of vanilla extract until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled loaf.


Prep ~ 15 minutes, Cook ~ 50 minutes, Total ~ 1 hour 5 minutes, Servings ~ 8, Kcal ~ 210 (estimate).

Plan Ahead

Preparing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread in advance can be a great time-saver. You can make the batter the day before and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle on the cinnamon sugar before baking. Alternatively, you can make the entire loaf ahead of time, then slice it and store it in an airtight container for a few days, ready to enjoy whenever a craving hit!

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers of this delightful Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread, you can store them easily. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you wish to store it longer, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the toaster. A gentle reheat in the oven can help refresh the loaf’s lovely texture. Look for the soft bread to spring back when gently pressed for freshness.

Perfect Pairings

This Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments:

  • Creamy butter spread on warm slices
  • A dollop of whipped cream cheese
  • A side of fresh fruit for balance
  • A warm cup of tea or coffee
  • A drizzle of honey for added sweetness

Make It Your Own

Don’t hesitate to put your spin on this Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

  • Nutty addition: Mix in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch.
  • Fruit flavors: Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the batter for bursts of sweetness.
  • Chocolate twist: Incorporate chocolate chips into the batter for a decadent touch that children will adore.
  • Maple flavor: Swap out brown sugar for maple sugar to introduce a rich, sweet flavor.
  • Glaze variations: Experiment with different flavors in the glaze, such as orange zest or almond extract.

For an even more fragrant cinnamon swirl, a high-quality Ceylon cinnamon makes a big difference.
👉 Here’s the one I use: Organic Ceylon Cinnamon

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To achieve the best results with your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread, keep these tips in mind:

  • Make sure your sourdough discard is active and bubbly for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
  • A toothpick inserted into the loaf should come out clean; if it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes.
  • Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing, as this will help maintain its moist texture.

Your Questions, Answered


  • Can I use whole wheat flour?
    Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly.



  • What if I don’t have sourdough discard?
    You can create a version of this bread without sourdough, but you’d need to adjust the liquid and leavening accordingly. You could use buttermilk instead for a tangy flavor.



  • Can I double the recipe?
    Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake two loaves. Just make sure you have enough baking space.



  • What should I do if the bread doesn’t rise?
    Check if your baking powder is fresh. Aging baking powder can lead to poor rising.



  • Can I use skim milk?
    Yes, any milk will work, but whole milk will yield a richer flavor and a more tender crumb.


Final Thoughts

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread is a delightful way to savor the comforts of home baking while reducing food waste. Its fragrant spices and soft texture make it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it solo or share it with family and friends, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a loaf that’s sure to warm hearts and tummies alike. You’ll find it’s not just bread; it’s a little hug in every slice. Happy baking!

Print
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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread


  • Author: patrick
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A warm and spiced Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Bread that’s perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, utilizing leftover sourdough starter for minimal waste.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/3 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 cup sourdough discard
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1/8 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup of brown sugar with 1 tbsp of cinnamon for the swirl filling.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, remaining brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and sourdough discard until smooth.
  5. Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just moistened.
  6. Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 3/4 of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
  7. Pour the remaining batter on top and spread gently. Add the rest of the cinnamon sugar on top.
  8. Use a knife to swirl the batter gently.
  9. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  10. Let cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Optionally, glaze with a mixture of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. This bread can be made ahead of time.

EQUIPMENT
Bread Maker – here’s the model I use when I want a perfect, no-fail loaf
👉 Cuisinart Bread Maker

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Bakery
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: sourdough, cinnamon bread, baking, breakfast, snacks, reduce waste