Rustic Sourdough Apple Skillet Cake: A Cozy Treat for Any Occasion

Ever find yourself with extra sourdough discard and no idea what to do with it? Look no further! This Rustic Sourdough Apple Skillet Cake is the ultimate way to transform leftovers into something magical. Picture this: tender apple slices infused with cinnamon, honey, and lemon zest, baked into a moist, lightly tangy cake—all in a single cast-iron skillet! Whether you’re looking for a rustic weekend breakfast or a cozy dessert, this recipe will hit the spot.

The Magic of Sourdough in Baking

You might be wondering: Why sourdough? Well, aside from reducing food waste, sourdough discard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor to baked goods. Plus, it helps create an airy, tender crumb—no dense cakes here!

Benefits of Using Sourdough Discard

• Enhances texture and moisture in baked goods
• Adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness
• Provides natural fermentation benefits, making it easier to digest
• Reduces food waste—win-win!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 5 apples (any kind, such as Honeycrisp for sweetness or Granny Smith for tartness), sliced
  • Substitutions: Pears or peaches for a slightly different flavor.
• 1 heaping tsp ground cinnamon
  • Use for: Enhancing warmth and depth of flavor.
  • Substitutions: Nutmeg or allspice for a variation.
• 1 lemon (juice & zest)
  • Use for: Adding brightness and balancing sweetness.
  • Substitutions: Orange zest for a milder citrus touch.
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • Use for: Providing structure to the cake.
  • Substitutions: Gluten-free 1:1 flour for a GF option.
• 2 tsp baking powder
  • Use for: Helping the cake rise and stay fluffy.
  • Substitutions: ½ tsp baking soda + 1 tsp vinegar.
• ¼ tsp salt
  • Use for: Enhancing all flavors.
  • Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
• 1 cup sourdough discard
  • Use for: Adding moisture and a slight tang.
  • Substitutions: Buttermilk or yogurt.
• 2 eggs
  • Use for: Binding ingredients together.
  • Substitutions: Flaxseed eggs for a vegan alternative.
• 1 cup honey
  • Use for: Natural sweetness and moisture.
  • Substitutions: Maple syrup or brown sugar.
• ½ cup oil (vegetable or coconut oil works best!)
  • Use for: Keeping the cake moist and soft.
  • Substitutions: Melted butter for a richer taste.
• 2 tbsp butter
  • Use for: Adding richness to the skillet and flavor to the crust.
  • Substitutions: Ghee for a nuttier flavor.

Kitchen Tools

• Cast-iron skillet (highly recommended for even baking!)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these simple steps to make the most delicious Rustic Sourdough Apple Skillet Cake.

• Preheat & Prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cast-iron skillet with butter.
• Prepare the Apples: In a bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, honey, and cinnamon. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes to soak up all the flavors. Tip: This step helps the apples caramelize beautifully when baked.
• Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, and sourdough discard until smooth. Tip: Whisking thoroughly ensures a uniform texture.
• Combine the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and airy.
• Assemble the Cake: Fold in half of the apple mixture into the batter to distribute flavor evenly. Pour the batter into your prepared skillet, smoothing the top. Arrange the remaining apples on top in a circular pattern for a rustic presentation.
• Bake: Place your skillet in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s done! Tip: If the edges brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
• Cool & Serve: Let your cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. Tip: Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence!

Pro Tips for the Best Sourdough Apple Cake

• Use different apple varieties for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
• Try coconut oil for an extra hint of richness.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for a special touch.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If refrigerating, it will last up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

• Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain its crisp edges.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds for a quick treat.
• Toaster Oven: A great option to bring back a slightly crispy texture!

How to Serve & What to Serve With?

This cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• For breakfast: Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey.
• As a dessert: Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• With drinks: Enjoy with a cup of spiced chai, coffee, or warm apple cider.
• Extra indulgence: Drizzle caramel sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish!

FAQs

There’s something truly special about baking a Rustic Sourdough Apple Skillet Cake. The warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the subtle tang of sourdough create a flavor-packed treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a comforting dessert, this skillet cake is sure to become a favorite. So grab your cast-iron skillet and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!