Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Embarking on a sourdough baking journey often involves the routine discard of excess starter during feedings. However, rather than letting that discard go to waste, creative bakers have found ingenious ways to transform it into a variety of delectable treats. This compilation presents a delightful list of popular sourdough discard recipes, spanning breakfast favorites like pancakes and waffles to savory delights such as pizza crust and crackers. From bagels and tortillas to chocolate cake and cinnamon rolls, these recipes not only reduce waste but also infuse a unique tangy flavor into a diverse range of culinary creations. Discover the art of making the most out of your sourdough discard and elevate your home baking experience.

Tips for success when using sourdough discard

Consistency Matters: Ensure that your sourdough discard has a consistent texture. Mix it well before using it in recipes to distribute the flour and water evenly.
Adjusting Hydration: Depending on the hydration level of your sourdough discard, you may need to adjust the liquid content in your recipe. If your discard is thick, you might need to add more liquid to achieve the desired consistency.
Flavor Enhancer: Leverage the unique tangy flavor of sourdough discard to enhance the taste of your recipes. It adds depth and complexity, particularly in baked goods like pancakes, waffles, and cakes.
Experiment with Ratios: Feel free to experiment with the ratio of sourdough discard to other ingredients. Depending on personal preference, you can increase or decrease the amount of discard in a recipe.
Timing is Key: Allow the sourdough to ferment for a bit before using it in recipes. This can enhance the flavor profile and ensure that the leavening agents are active.
Combine with Fresh Starter: For certain recipes, consider combining your sourdough discard with a bit of fresh starter. This combination can provide a good balance of flavor and leavening power.
Adapt Baking Times: Be mindful of potential adjustments in baking times. The sourdough discard may affect the overall rise and texture of the final product, so keep an eye on your baked goods as they cook.
Pairing with Sweet and Savory: Sourdough discard works well in both sweet and savory recipes. Experiment with a variety of dishes, from cookies and cakes to pizza crusts and crackers.
Storing Discard: If you accumulate more sourdough discard than you can use at once, store it in the refrigerator. This way, you can collect and discard it over a few days and then use it in a larger batch.
Get Creative: Don't be afraid to get creative and adapt existing recipes. Sourdough discard is versatile and can be a great addition to a wide range of dishes, allowing you to put your spin on traditional favorites.

Sourdough Bread (opens in a new window)

Sourdough bread on a wire cooling rack — our Sourdough Bread recipe

Sourdough Discard Recipes

Sourdough discard recipes are a great way to make use of excess sourdough starter that you might otherwise discard during the feeding process. Here are some popular sourdough discard recipes (links open in a new window):

Sourdough Pancakes: A classic and easy recipe to make light and fluffy pancakes using sourdough discard.
Sourdough Waffles: Similar to pancakes but with a waffle iron, these make for a delicious breakfast.
Sourdough Banana Bread: Add a tangy twist to your banana bread by incorporating sourdough discard into the batter.
Sourdough Pizza Crust: Make a flavorful pizza crust by using sourdough and discard the dough.
Sourdough Crackers: Create crispy and tasty crackers for snacking using your sourdough discard.
Sourdough Pretzels: Soft pretzels with a sourdough kick can be a delightful snack or appetizer.
Sourdough Bagels: Make chewy and flavorful bagels using sourdough and discard the dough.
Sourdough Tortillas: Use sourdough discard to enhance the flavor of homemade tortillas for tacos or wraps.
Sourdough English Muffins: Create your own sourdough-infused English muffins for a delicious breakfast.
Sourdough Chocolate Cake: Add a unique taste to your chocolate cake by incorporating sourdough discard.
Sourdough Biscuits: Make flaky and tender biscuits by adding sourdough discard to the recipe.
Sourdough Baguette: Craft a crusty sourdough baguette to serve with soups or as a side.
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls: Give your cinnamon rolls a tangy twist with the addition of sourdough discard.
Sourdough Flatbreads: Prepare versatile flatbreads using sourdough and discard them for sandwiches or dipping.
Sourdough Cookies: Experiment with sourdough discards in cookie recipes for a unique flavor.

a white plate with sourdough pancakes on it and maple syrup — our Sourdough Pancakes recipe

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Remember to adjust the ratios and hydration levels in these recipes based on your specific sourdough discard characteristics. Enjoy your sourdough baking!

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First published: 1/24/2024

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Sara Maniez

Owner at Life's Little Sweets

Sara is an architectural designer turned work-at-home Mom. She lives in New Jersey by way of New England and New York, with her husband and 3 kids under 8. She loves design, being creative, and spending time with family and friends. She loves checking out local businesses and eats and being apart of the local farm to table community.

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