These Sourdough Discard Strawberry Fritters are a fun twist on traditional treats! Made with fresh strawberries and sourdough discard, they’re fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Every bite is like a little hug from summer. I love enjoying them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar—so good you might want to share, but I probably won’t! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: This is the star of the show! If you don’t have any, you could use plain yogurt or buttermilk. I love using sourdough because it adds a unique tangy flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here, but you can try whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. Just keep an eye on the consistency, as whole wheat absorbs more liquid.
Fresh Strawberries: Seasonal strawberries add sweetness. If they’re not available, feel free to swap in other berries like blueberries or raspberries, or even chopped apples for a different flavor!
Granulated Sugar: If you want a healthier option, swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar, or reduce the amount slightly for a less sweet result.
Milk: Whole milk gives richness, but you can use almond milk or any non-dairy milk. I’ve tried it with oat milk, and it turned out delicious!
How Do I Get My Fritters Crispy on the Outside and Fluffy Inside?
For the perfect fritters, the frying technique is key. Here’s how to achieve that great texture:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F or 175°C). A thermometer helps a lot! Test with a small dollop of batter; if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook in batches to keep the oil temperature steady. Each fritter should have room to float.
- Turn them gently with a slotted spoon to ensure even frying. A golden color is your target—trust your eyes!
Let them rest on paper towels to drain oil, and enjoy them warm for the best taste!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Strawberry Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or buttermilk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional: honey or glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for frying. Overall, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick sweet snack or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good mix so everything is well-combined.
2. Whisk Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. This helps to create a nice fluffy texture in your fritters.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the egg and milk mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or spoon to mix gently, just until combined—it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy; avoid overmixing!
4. Add Strawberries:
Gently fold in the chopped strawberries until evenly distributed through the batter. Look at those fresh bites of goodness!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure you have enough oil for the fritters to float freely—this ensures even cooking!
6. Fry the Fritters:
Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop dollops of batter (about 1-2 tablespoons) into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding!
7. Cook Until Golden:
Fry the fritters, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. Keep an eye out for that perfect golden color!
8. Drain and Serve:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. You want them crispy, not greasy!
9. Enjoy Your Treat:
Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar. You can also drizzle honey or glaze over the top if you like a bit of extra sweetness. These fritters are best enjoyed fresh!
Now you’re all set to enjoy some delicious Sourdough Discard Strawberry Fritters! Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fruit?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can substitute them with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even chopped apples. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on the fruit’s sweetness!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster oven or microwave until warmed through—this helps restore some of the crispiness!
Can I Make the Batter Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before frying, as it may thicken in the fridge.
How Can I Make These Fritters Even More Flavorful?
To amp up the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You could also mix in a splash of lemon or orange zest for a bright, fresh taste!
