Turn Your Sourdough Discard into Delicious Baked Goods You'll Make Again and Again

If you’ve ventured into the world of sourdough bread baking, you might have faced a common challenge: what to do with sourdough discard? This is the portion of your starter that you remove before feeding it with fresh flour and water. Instead of tossing it away, why not transform it into delightful baked goods? In this post, we’ll explore creative, practical, and delicious ways to use sourdough discard, ensuring you waste less and enjoy more.

Understanding Sourdough Discard

To fully appreciate sourdough discard, it’s essential to know what it is. Sourdough starter is a vibrant mixture of flour and water that ferments, developing unique flavors over time. When it's time to bake, you discard part of the starter to sustain its health. That discarded portion, however, is still full of flavor and beneficial bacteria, making it a valuable ingredient for various recipes.

Because of its acidic nature, sourdough discard not only boosts the taste but also enhances the texture of many dishes. Think pancakes, cookies, and beyond! Let’s roll up our sleeves and explore how to make the most of this fantastic resource.

Sourdough Discard Pancakes

One of the easiest and most satisfying uses for sourdough discard is pancakes. They are quick to prepare and offer a unique tang that elevates your breakfast experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard

• 1 cup milk (or any non-dairy alternative)

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons melted butter (or vegetable oil)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

  
  

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the sourdough discard, milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.

3. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are fine; don’t over-mix.

4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in your desired pancake size and flip once bubbles form on the surface.

5. Top with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or yogurt and dig in!

   
   

Fluffy pancakes topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of syrup make for a perfect family breakfast.

Transform Your Pizza Night with Sourdough Discard Crust

Make your pizza night unforgettable by using sourdough discard to create a unique pizza crust. This offers a depth of flavor that will take your homemade pizza to the next level.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (more as needed)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)

• Water as needed

  
  

Instructions:

1. Combine the sourdough discard, flour, salt, and olive oil in a large bowl until a dough forms.

2. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth and elastic. If it’s sticky, add more flour.

3. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes in a covered bowl. This relaxes the gluten for easier stretching.

4. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and roll out the dough to your preferred thickness.

5. Place the rolled crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings.

6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy. Enjoy your pizza with that distinct sourdough flavor!

   
   

Delicious homemade sourdough pizza

Sourdough Discard Cookies

For those with a sweet tooth, this simple recipe for cookies using sourdough discard will be a hit. They’re chewy, subtly tangy, and utterly addictive.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard

• 1/2 cup softened butter

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup chocolate chips (or your preferred mix-ins)

  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Mix in the sourdough discard, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add to the wet mixture until combined.

5. Fold in chocolate chips or other mix-ins.

6. Drop spoonfuls on the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

   
   

7. Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

   
   

Sourdough cookies are always a hit in our house

Sourdough Discard Muffins

Muffins made with sourdough discard provide a superb option for snacks or breakfast. Feel free to stir in fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips for an extra twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

• 1 large egg

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Optional additions: fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips

  
  

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

2. Combine sourdough discard, milk, vegetable oil, and egg in a mixing bowl and whisk until smooth.

3. In another bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet ingredients until just combined.

4. Fold in fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips if desired.

5. Divide the batter among muffin cups and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

   
   

Embrace the Potential of Sourdough Discard

Using sourdough discard to create delicious baked goods is not only enjoyable but also a practical way to reduce waste. From pancakes to cookies, you can discover numerous possibilities. Each recipe not only minimizes waste but enhances flavors and provides new experiences in your kitchen.

Grandma Gail's Dough House delivers to your home or workplace weekly. Order by Sunday, delivered on Tuesday. Check out our SHOP page.

www.grandmagailsdoughhouse.com

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