There’s something magical about the aroma of pumpkin bread wafting through the kitchen, especially when it carries the tangy whisper of sourdough. As a chef, I’ve come to appreciate the art of transformation that cooking offers, and this Sourdough Discard Pumpkin Bread Recipe is a perfect example. Every bite brings me back to cozy autumn afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the warmth of the oven was only rivaled by the warmth in our hearts. This recipe combines the comfort of tradition with a twist of innovation, making it a staple in my kitchen studio and hopefully in yours too.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe
- It’s so easy, it feels like a little kitchen victory!
- The perfect balance of sweet and spice makes every bite delightful.
- Utilizing sourdough discard means nothing goes to waste—it’s a win for both flavor and sustainability.
- The crumb topping adds that extra layer of texture that elevates the entire experience.
Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Treat
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the earthy pumpkin puree to the aromatic pumpkin pie spice. The use of sourdough discard adds a unique depth, giving the bread a subtle tanginess that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of brown sugar. Here’s why I love these ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: A pantry staple that forms the backbone of this bread.
- Pumpkin pie spice: The heart of fall flavors, bringing warmth and nostalgia.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses note that complements the pumpkin.
- Sourdough discard: A creative way to add complexity and reduce waste.
You’ll find the full ingredient list with exact measurements in the recipe card below!
Let’s Make Some Magic: Step-by-Step
Cooking is all about creating and sharing moments, and I’m here to guide you through each step with ease:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9”x5” loaf pan with butter. This sets the stage for your masterpiece.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice. These dry ingredients form the foundation of your bread.
- Melt butter and stir in brown sugar until smooth. Then, add the egg, vanilla, sourdough discard, and pumpkin puree. Mix well, but remember, we’re aiming for combined, not overmixed.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle on the crumb topping, made by combining flour, cinnamon, sugars, salt, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Bake for 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
A Few of My Favorite Tips
Here are some secrets to ensure your bread turns out perfectly every time:
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the cooling time—it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- For an extra twist, mix some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.
How I Like to Serve This
Slice up this delicious bread and serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. I love sharing it with friends and family, creating cherished memories around the table.
Storing & Reheating (If There’s Any Left!)
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the oven at a low temperature.
With this Sourdough Discard Pumpkin Bread, you’re not just baking—you’re crafting a moment of comfort and joy. I hope it becomes a beloved addition to your fall recipes collection!
Easy Sourdough Discard Pumpkin Bread With Crumb Topping
Ingredients
Crumb Topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ⅛ tsp salt
Pumpkin Loaf
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup sourdough discard
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (or 1 1/3 cups homemade puree)
Instructions
- Make the crumb topping by whisking together flour, cinnamon, sugars, and salt. Stir in melted butter until small crumbs form.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9”x5” loaf pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Melt butter, add brown sugar, then mix in egg, vanilla, sourdough discard, and pumpkin puree. Combine with dry ingredients.
- Pour batter into the pan, sprinkle with crumb topping, and bake for 60 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
