Are you a sourdough enthusiast looking for creative ways to use up your excess starter? Look no further! Sourdough discard can be a treasure trove of possibilities, from sweet treats to savory snacks. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that will help you reduce waste and get the most out of your sourdough starter.
From fluffy pancakes to crispy flatbread, tangy banana bread to rich chocolate cake, we’ve got you covered with a variety of mouthwatering options. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these recipes are sure to inspire you to try new things and make the most of your sourdough discard.
Sourdough Discard Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Make the most of your sourdough starter’s natural yeast and bacteria by turning discarded batter into delicious pancakes, perfect for a sweet breakfast treat. This recipe is a great way to use up excess sourdough starter and reduce food waste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, room temperature)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the egg and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Pour in the melted butter and whisk until the batter is free of lumps.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan, allowing pancakes to cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes per batch (depending on size).
Crunchy Sourdough Discard Crackers with Herbs
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious and crunchy snack by making these flavorful crackers infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for accompanying soups, salads, or simply munching on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine sourdough discard, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Add olive oil and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead in chopped herbs.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or rectangles).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between crackers.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crunchy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fluffy Sourdough Discard Waffles
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious breakfast treat with these Fluffy Sourdough Discard Waffles.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, eggs, sugar, and flour until smooth.
3. Add salt and melted butter; whisk until fully incorporated.
4. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the preheated waffle iron.
5. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing the waffle iron with cooking spray as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on your waffle iron)
Savory Sourdough Discard Cheese Biscuits
Transform your sourdough discard into crispy, cheesy biscuits perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and stews. This recipe is a great way to use up excess starter and add some flavor and texture to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup active sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine sourdough discard, cheddar cheese, olive oil, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a biscuit cutter.
4. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Golden Sourdough Discard Focaccia
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious and crispy focaccia, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard and warm water. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
2. Add the olive oil, salt, and rosemary leaves (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet and shape into a rectangle or circle.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Elevate your breakfast game with these scrumptious sweet sourdough cinnamon rolls, made possible by using the discard from your regular sourdough bread making routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter discard, flour, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with cinnamon and salt.
5. Roll up the dough tightly, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Crispy Sourdough Discard Flatbread
Transform your sourdough starter discard into a crispy and delicious flatbread, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: herbs, spices, or flavorings of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter discard and warm water. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
2. Add the salt and mix until dissolved.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal pieces, depending on desired flatbread size.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Place the sheets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Sourdough Discard Pretzels
Use up your sourdough starter discard to make these soft, chewy pretzels perfect for snacking or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious pretzels in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter discard and 1 cup of warm water. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your thumbs to create a hole in the center, stretching the dough out to form a pretzel shape.
5. Place the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pretzel.
6. Let the pretzels rise at room temperature for 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zesty Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough
This recipe utilizes sourdough discard to create a delicious and crispy pizza crust with a tangy twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (active and bubbly)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard and warm water. Mix until smooth.
2. Add olive oil, salt, sugar, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Form the dough into a ball and let it rest at room temperature for 1 hour.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough to desired thickness and top with your favorite ingredients.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rich Sourdough Discard Chocolate Cake
Moist and decadent, this cake is a perfect way to use up your sourdough discard. The tangy flavor of the starter pairs perfectly with the richness of the chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sourdough discard, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold melted chocolate into batter until well combined.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tangy Sourdough Discard Banana Bread
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious banana bread with a tangy twist!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, mashed bananas, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and mix until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: One 9×5-inch banana bread loaf
Enjoy your tangy sourdough discard banana bread, perfect for snacking or as a delicious breakfast treat!
Herbed Sourdough Discard Stuffing
This recipe uses sourdough discard to add a tangy flavor and tender texture to your stuffing. Perfect for the holidays, this herbed filling is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, parsley, thyme, and sage in melted butter until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the sourdough discard to the skillet and stir until well combined.
4. Add the bread cubes to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the herbed mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the stuffing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Sourdough Discard Muffins
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious breakfast or snack with these easy-to-make muffins, packed with cheddar cheese and a hint of tanginess.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, flour, and cheese until well combined.
3. Add the milk, egg, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
4. Melt the butter and pour it into the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spiced Sourdough Discard Pumpkin Bread
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious pumpkin bread infused with warm spices and autumnal flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In another bowl, mix sourdough discard, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and egg until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crumbly Sourdough Discard Shortbread Cookies
Transform your sourdough discard into a delicious shortbread cookie, perfect for snacking or gift-giving. This recipe utilizes the naturally occurring lactic acid and enzymes in sourdough starter to create a tender, crumbly texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (at room temperature)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough discard and confectioners’ sugar until well combined.
3. Add salt and softened butter; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlicky Sourdough Discard Breadsticks
These savory breadsticks are a great way to use up your sourdough starter discard, with the added bonus of a garlicky flavor boost. Perfect as a snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together the sourdough starter discard and warm water until well combined.
3. Add olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
5. Divide into 8-10 pieces. Shape each piece into a breadstick.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each stick.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Sourdough Discard Blueberry Muffins
Sweet Sourdough Discard Blueberry Muffins Recipe
Use your sourdough starter’s discard to create a delicious and moist blueberry muffin, packed with sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe is perfect for using up excess sourdough starter and enjoying a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (at room temperature)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sourdough starter discard, sugar, flour, oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Gently fold in blueberries.
4. In a large bowl, whisk egg until frothy. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Rustic Sourdough Discard Cornbread
This recipe utilizes sourdough discard to create a moist and flavorful cornbread with a tender crumb and a slightly tangy taste. Perfect for accompanying your favorite soups, stews, or chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add sourdough discard, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Flaky Sourdough Discard Pie Crust
Turn sourdough discard into a delicious pie crust with this simple recipe. Perfect for using up excess starter and adding an extra layer of complexity to your favorite pies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sourdough discard, flour, and salt.
2. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually pour in cold water (about 1/8 cup) while gently stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 days.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out chilled dough to desired thickness and use as pie crust.
Cooking Time:
– Baking time will vary depending on the type of filling used, but generally, the crust is ready when it’s lightly golden brown.
Golden Sourdough Discard Donuts
Transform your sourdough discard into a sweet treat with these fluffy and flavorful donuts. With only a few ingredients, you can create a delicious breakfast or snack that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (active and bubbly)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar or glaze for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the sourdough discard and mix until just combined.
4. Gradually add the milk, mixing until smooth and free of lumps.
5. Pour in the melted butter and mix until fully incorporated.
6. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
9. Serve warm or let cool completely before storing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Summary
Discover the versatility of sourdough discard with these 20 delicious recipes! From sweet treats like cinnamon rolls and blueberry muffins to savory options like cheese biscuits and pizza dough, there’s something for every baker. With creative twists on classic dishes and innovative uses for leftover sourdough starter, this collection will inspire you to get baking and reduce waste in the process. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out with sourdough, these recipes are sure to delight.