Sourdough Discard Bread

Name: Sourdough Discard Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough starter discard; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup water (room temperature); 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: November 6, 2025

by samuel cullingham

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sourdough Discard Bread:

Sourdough Starter Discard: Around 1 cup of discard works perfectly; it’s the secret ingredient that brings flavor and texture.
All-Purpose Flour: Use about 3 cups; opt for high-quality flour for better results.
Water: About 1 cup should do; room temperature is ideal to help activate the yeast.
Salt: Use around 1 teaspoon; salt enhances flavor and strengthens gluten structure.
Olive Oil: About 2 tablespoons adds richness and moisture to the bread.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Sourdough Discard Bread:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me on this one—nothing says “I’m serious about my bread” like a preheated oven!

Step 2: Mix The Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your sourdough starter discard with water and olive oil. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in flour and salt while stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. This is where it starts getting exciting!

Step 4: Knead The Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Think of it as giving your dough a mini workout—it’s great therapy!

Step 5: Let It Rise

Place the kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size. Go grab yourself a snack while you wait; you’ve earned it!

Step 6: Shape And Bake

Once risen, punch down the dough gently (yes, you can take out any frustrations here) and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and enjoy warm slices slathered with butter or jam for breakfast or an afternoon treat!

And there you have it—a delightful adventure into baking that not only makes use of that pesky sourdough discard but also fills your home with warmth and deliciousness! As you savor each bite of your homemade Sourdough Discard Bread, remember that you’re not just enjoying bread; you’re indulging in love baked right from your kitchen.

[love_box title=”You Must Know About Sourdough Discard Bread”] This showstopping Sourdough Discard Bread delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.[/love_box]

Perfecting Cooking Process

To create the ultimate Sourdough Discard Bread, start by mixing your dry ingredients first. Then incorporate your sourdough discard into the mixture while kneading. Finally, let it rise in a warm spot before baking to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Sourdough Discard Bread by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or try incorporating cheese for a savory twist. You can also swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, making each loaf uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Sourdough Discard Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop slices in the toaster or warm them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

[love_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips for Sourdough Discard Bread”] This professional-quality Sourdough Discard Bread relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently. Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters. The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth. Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.[/love_box]

When I first baked Sourdough Discard Bread, my friends couldn’t believe I made it! They devoured it within minutes, with one friend even suggesting I should open a bakery—if only I could manage to wake up before noon!

FAQs

What is Sourdough Discard Bread?

Sourdough Discard Bread is a delicious and resourceful way to use the excess sourdough starter that accumulates during the bread-making process. Instead of tossing out the discard, you can transform it into flavorful and crusty bread. The discard adds unique flavors and textures, making each loaf a delightful treat. This method not only minimizes waste but also enhances your baking repertoire, allowing you to enjoy homemade bread without starting from scratch every time.

How do I make Sourdough Discard Bread?

To make Sourdough Discard Bread, mix together equal parts of sourdough discard, flour, water, and salt. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Let it rise until doubled in size, then shape it into a loaf or rolls. After a second rise, bake in a preheated oven until golden brown. This simple process results in a deliciously tangy bread that pairs well with various toppings or can be enjoyed plain.

Can I use any type of flour for Sourdough Discard Bread?

Yes, you can use various types of flour when making Sourdough Discard Bread. While all-purpose flour is commonly used, whole wheat or rye flour can be incorporated for added flavor and nutrition. Experimenting with different flours will yield unique textures and tastes. Just remember to adjust the water content slightly, as whole grain flours often absorb more moisture than white varieties.

How long does Sourdough Discard Bread last?

Sourdough Discard Bread typically lasts about 3 to 5 days when stored properly at room temperature in a bread bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices or the whole loaf in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw or toast the slices for a fresh taste reminiscent of just-baked bread.

Conclusion

In summary, Sourdough Discard Bread is an excellent way to utilize leftover sourdough starter while creating delicious loaves at home. This recipe not only helps reduce food waste but also allows for creative experimentation with different flours and flavors. By following simple steps, you can produce a delightful bread that enhances your meals and snacks. Embrace the joy of baking with Sourdough Discard Bread today!