26+ Irresistible Sourdough Dessert Recipes to Try
Did you know your sourdough starter can make amazing treats beyond bread? I love using sourdough recipes to surprise my family with something special!
The tangy zip adds depth that makes sweets more interesting – never boring. Plus, there’s good stuff happening with the fermentation that helps your tummy feel happy.
From rich chocolate cake to tangy lemon bars, you’ll find something to love. I’ve tried many of these and can’t wait for you to enjoy them too. Ready to try? Let’s bake something amazing together.
Sourdough Cakes
These cakes use your sourdough discard to create moist, flavorful treats that will wow your friends and family. The tangy notes make every bite special.
Sourdough Chocolate Cake
The tang cuts through the rich chocolate like magic! I made this for my son’s birthday. He couldn’t believe it had sourdough in it. You’ll love how moist it stays for days if it lasts that long!
Sourdough Vanilla Cake
It is so fluffy and light with tiny bubbles throughout! My neighbor asked for the secret after one bite. The vanilla flavor shines bright while the sourdough adds depth you can’t get any other way.
Sourdough Carrot Cake
The carrots stay super moist thanks to the starter! Cinnamon and sourdough are best friends in this cake. You can add nuts if you like them. I top mine with cream cheese frosting.
Sourdough Puddings & Cobbler
Turn day-old bread and extra starter into warm, comforting desserts that taste like home. These bring back childhood memories with a grown-up twist.
Sourdough Bread Pudding
Old bread gets new life in this warm hug of a dessert! The sourdough tang works so well with sweet custard. You might want to eat the whole pan! My kids ask for this on rainy days.
Sourdough Berry Cobbler
The bubbling fruit gets a perfect topping that’s crusty outside, and soft inside! Mix whatever berries you have on hand. I made this when friends came over and they all wanted seconds.
Sourdough Peach Cobbler
Sweet peaches play so nice with the tangy dough on top! The juice bubbles up around the edges in the most magical way. You’ll want to make this all summer long when peaches are ripe.
Sourdough Pumpkin Cobbler
Fall flavors shine with this cozy treat! The pumpkin base stays creamy while the sourdough topping gets crisp edges. You can add extra cinnamon if you love spice like I do.
Sourdough Cookies
Your cookie jar needs these unique treats! The sourdough starter gives regular cookies an exciting new twist that will make you smile with every bite.
Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies
The dough rests overnight, making the best flavor ever! Crisp edges but soft middles will make you so happy. I can’t keep these in my house – they vanish too fast!
Sourdough Snickerdoodles
The tang makes the cinnamon sugar pop like crazy! These stay soft for days when stored right. You’ll love the crackly tops and how they melt in your mouth.
Sourdough Peanut Butter Cookies
Nutty and rich with the perfect chewy texture! The sourdough cuts the sweetness just right. My dad says these are the best cookies I’ve ever made, and he’s hard to impress!
Sourdough Brownies & Bars
These handheld treats combine your sourdough starter with irresistible flavors. Perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, or midnight snacks when nobody’s looking!
Fudgy Sourdough Brownies
So rich and dark they make me weak in the knees! The edges get that perfect crackle while the inside stays gooey. You won’t be able to stop at just one piece.
Sourdough Chocolate Chip Blondies
Brown sugar and butter create a caramel backdrop for melty chocolate chunks! The sourdough adds complexity that regular blondies lack. I made these last weekend and my neighbor knocked on my door asking for the recipe.
Sourdough Lemon Bars
Bright citrus cuts through the buttery crust so well! The sourdough base adds depth to the simple sweetness. You can use lime instead of lemon for a fun change.
Sourdough Pies & Tarts
Your pastry skills will level up with these flaky, tender crusts. The sourdough gives these classic desserts an artisan touch everyone will notice.
Sourdough Pie Crust
Flakier than any other crust you’ve tried before! The long ferment creates amazing layers. You’ll want to use this base for all your pies once you try it.
Sourdough Apple Pie
Tart apples and tangy crust make the perfect match! The filling stays juicy while the bottom crust stays crisp. I add a pinch of salt to make the flavors pop.
Sourdough Pumpkin Pie
The spiced filling gets a zingy boost from the crust! Perfect for holidays or just because. You’ll impress everyone at your next gathering with this twist on a classic.
Sourdough Sweet Rolls & Buns
Wake up to these heavenly breakfast treats! The overnight rise makes morning baking easy, and your kitchen will smell amazing.
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
The dough gets so fluffy and soft overnight! That swirl of cinnamon sugar looks like a dream. You can add raisins if you like them, but I keep mine plain.
Sourdough Sticky Buns
Gooey caramel coats every inch of these special treats! Nuts on top get toasty while the dough stays tender. My grandma taught me to make these, and now they’re even better.
Sourdough Orange Rolls
Fresh orange zest makes these rolls smell like sunshine! The citrus plays so well with the tangy dough. You’ll want these for special breakfast moments with people you love.
Sourdough Muffins & Quick Breads
Turn ripe fruit and extra starter into breakfast-worthy treats. These quick options are perfect for busy mornings or afternoon snacks.
Sourdough Banana Bread
Brown bananas find their best life in this moist loaf! The sourdough adds complexity to the sweet fruit. You can add chocolate chips for an extra treat – I always do!
Sourdough Pumpkin Bread
Fall spices warm you from the inside out! The texture stays moist for days thanks to the starter. I like to toast slices and add butter for an extra special snack.
Sourdough Blueberry Muffins
Bursts of berry goodness in every bite! The tops get slightly crisp while the inside stays tender. You’ll never go back to regular muffins after trying these sourdough ones.
Sourdough Doughnuts & Fritters
Fried treats get an upgrade with sourdough’s complex flavor. These are worth the extra time and will make you the star of any brunch.
Glazed Sourdough Donuts
Light and airy with the perfect chew! The glaze melts into every nook and cranny. My kids think I’m a kitchen wizard when I make these on weekend mornings.
Sourdough Apple Fritters
Chunks of apple in a tangy batter fried to golden perfection! The nooks and crannies catch all the glaze. You might need to make a double batch – they go so fast!
Sourdough Beignets
Puffy pillows of joy covered in powdered sugar! The sourdough makes them less sweet but more interesting. I first tried these in New Orleans and had to learn to make them.
Final Thoughts
Wow! Who knew sourdough could do so much beyond bread? I hope you’re excited to try these treats!
Don’t worry if you’re new to sourdough – just start small. Maybe try the cookies or banana bread first.
Your starter is like a pet that gives back with yummy desserts! The best part is using up discard that might otherwise go to waste.
My baking got so much better when I started using sourdough in sweet things. Pick one recipe that looks good and just go for it!
You might surprise yourself with how easy and tasty sourdough desserts can be. Let me know which one becomes your favorite!
