Top 11 Sourdough Bread Recipes

Sourdough baking is a delightful craft, but it often leads to an inevitable byproduct: sourdough discard. This leftover starter, typically removed during feeding, is far from waste! It opens up a world of culinary possibilities. You’re in the right place if you’re wondering what to do with your sourdough discard. From easy sourdough discard recipes to savory and sweet treats, this guide will inspire you to make the most of your excess starter.

The Potential of Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard is simply the starter portion that is removed when feeding it. Though it might seem like a byproduct, it still contains the same beneficial yeasts and bacteria that make sourdough so special. The good news? You don’t need to toss it out. By incorporating sourdough discard into various recipes, you can reduce waste, add flavor to your baking, and enjoy new culinary experiences.

This article explores some of the best recipes for sourdough discard and how they can add a unique twist to your kitchen creations.

Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard is the portion of sourdough starter removed during the feeding process to maintain the balance of yeast and bacteria. While it may seem like a waste, this discard still holds great potential for baking. It adds a tangy, slightly fermented flavor to recipes, making it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

READ MORE: Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough

Benefits of Using Sourdough Discard

1. Minimizing Waste: Instead of throwing away discard, you can use it to create delicious recipes, reducing food waste.
2. Enhanced Flavor: The natural fermentation in sourdough discard brings a complex, tangy flavor to your baked goods.
3. Nutritional Boost: Sourdough discard contains beneficial bacteria and yeasts that aid digestion and provide a nutrient-rich addition to your meals.

Sweet Sourdough Discard Recipes

1 Sourdough Pancakes

Start your morning right with sourdough pancakes. The discard adds a slight tang that pairs perfectly with syrup, fruit, or butter.

Basic Recipe:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• Pinch of salt

Tips: Let the batter rest for a few minutes before cooking to enhance the fluffy texture.

2 Sourdough Banana Bread

Sourdough discard can elevate the flavor of banana bread by adding depth to its sweetness.

Recipe:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For a creative twist, add nuts or chocolate chips. The discard enhances the bread’s moisture and gives it a subtle tang.

3 Sourdough Chocolate Chip Cookies

For a unique spin on the classic cookie, try sourdough chocolate chip cookies. The sourdough discard adds a surprising complexity to this beloved treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 cup butter
• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup chocolate chips

These cookies are soft on the inside with a slight chew, making them an irresistible snack.

4 Sourdough Muffins

Muffins are another easy sourdough discard recipe that offers flexibility with flavors. Whether you prefer blueberry, apple cinnamon, or chocolate, the discard gives your muffins a moist, tender crumb.

Base Recipe:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 cup flour
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

Mix in your favorite ingredients to make each batch special!

READ MORE: Good Culture Cottage Cheese

Savory Sourdough Discard Recipes

1 Sourdough Pizza Crust

Turn pizza night into a gourmet experience with a tangy sourdough pizza crust. The discard adds a chewy texture and distinct flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 2 cups flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp yeast (optional, for extra rise)

After the dough has risen, top it with your favorite sauce and toppings, and bake to perfection.

2 Sourdough Crackers

If you’re looking for a quick sourdough discard recipe, these sourdough crackers are an ideal choice. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for snacking.

Basic Recipe:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 cup flour
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• Herbs and spices to taste

Roll the dough thin, cut into shapes, and bake until golden.

3 Sourdough Focaccia

Transform your sourdough discard into a light and airy focaccia. It’s easy to make, and the discard adds extra flavor to this Italian classic.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 3 cups flour
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup water

After the dough rises, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs, sea salt, or even sliced vegetables before baking.

4 Sourdough Scones

Sourdough scones are buttery, tender, and ideal for breakfast or tea time. The discard gives the scones a slightly tangy flavor that complements the richness of butter.

Basic Recipe:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 2 cups flour
• ½ cup butter, cold
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ cup sugar
• Pinch of salt

Add dried fruits or chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Unique Uses for Sourdough Discard

1 Sourdough Waffles

Love waffles? You can easily adapt your pancake recipe to make sourdough waffles. Simply add a bit more milk for a thinner batter and enjoy crispy, golden waffles with a hint of sourdough flavor.

2 Sourdough Crumpets

Crumpets are another delightful way to use sourdough discard. These light, spongy treats are perfect for a cozy breakfast.

Recipe:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup flour
• Pinch of salt

Cook in a crumpet ring for perfect round shapes.

3 Sourdough Bread Pudding

Transform stale bread and sourdough discard into a rich and comforting bread pudding. It’s a great way to avoid wasting both leftover bread and discard.

Recipe:

• 1 cup sourdough discard
• 4 cups stale bread, cubed
• 2 cups milk
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup sugar
• Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg

Tips for Storing and Using Sourdough Discard

Best Practices for Storing Sourdough Discard

Store sourdough discard in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze it for future use—just defrost it before baking.

How to Incorporate Discard into Regular Baking

You can substitute sourdough discard in many recipes by reducing some of the liquid or flour. It’s a great way to experiment and add sourdough flavor to various baked goods.

Conclusion

Sourdough discard recipes are a fantastic way to minimize waste while adding a unique and delicious element to your baking. Whether you’re making sweet pancakes or savory crackers, sourdough discard can transform your kitchen creations. So, don’t let your discard go to waste—experiment with these easy sourdough discard recipes and discover new favorites!

Have your own sourdough discard recipes? Share them with us and join the sourdough community!