This has been our family’s go-to for sourdough discard recipes that will satisfy that sweet tooth while making the most of your leftover discard. From updated classics like sourdough chocolate chip cookies to your soon-to-be favorite sourdough cinnamon rolls, this refreshed collection is full of creative and traditional recipes, all with a delightful sourdough twist.
I always encourage you to avoid tossing your sourdough discard—not only to reduce food waste because it’s such a versatile ingredient. When you’re busy, it may seem easiest to discard and move on, but I want to remind you that it’s just as simple to save that discard in a jar in your fridge. Trust me, you will want it on these delicious recipes!
Check your stash: If you’re planning to bake often with discard, make sure you have enough on hand. And if you’re low, don’t worry—your active sourdough starter can be substituted in most cases.
Why Use Sourdough Discard in Desserts?
Flavor complexity: Sourdough adds a subtle tang that perfectly balances the sweetness in desserts, giving them depth and a unique flavor profile.
Fermented grains: What you need to know about the fermentation process. It breaks down gluten, making the grains easier to digest and giving your recipes a crumb.
Whether baking for a special occasion or treating your family to something sweet, these recipes are a fantastic way to use up your sourdough starter discard.
Here is why I Love Sourdough Discard Recipes
No wasted flour! These recipes help you reduce waste by putting your sourdough discard to delicious use!
Pro Tip:
Older discard = More tang! The longer your discard sits, the stronger the sour flavor it will add to your recipe. So keep in mind when deciding how much tang you want in your dessert.
Check your stash: If you’re planning to bake often with discard, make sure you have enough on hand. And if you’re low, don’t worry—your active sourdough starter can be substituted in most cases.
Active vs Discard:
For a recipe that needs an active, bubbly starter, you can swap in the sourdough discard and use it right away, or let it ferment overnight for extra health benefits.
Room temperature is key: A simple step but it can make a big difference in the recipe. Is just let the sourdough discard to sit out at room temperature for best results. If it is summer at my home it stays around 70-75 inside with air conditioning so depending if you are in the dead of winter it can take a little extra warming by the oven or stove.
Storing Your Sourdough Discard:
Remember, sourdough discard should be kept in the refrigerator in a non-porous container to prevent it from souring too quickly. While discard is low maintenance, it will need feeding every 7-10 days to keep it active. The cold slows fermentation but doesn’t stop it, so it will continue to develop flavor.
The only time you will not want to use your sourdough is if it turns pink. This was a sad batch that unfortunately got forgotten about. This was the first and only time I saw this. Be sure To always use clean spoons.
Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chewy, slightly tangy, and loaded with chocolate—these cookies are next-level delicious!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup sourdough discard
- 1 cup flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Mix in the egg, vanilla, and sourdough discard.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in chocolate chips.
- Scoop dough onto a baking sheet and chill for 30 minutes (this step is optional but gives thicker cookies).
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
These cookies are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while putting your sourdough discard to good use!
Looking for more discard recipes Click Here
For more tips, check out my guide on how to store sourdough starter to keep your discard fresh and ready for baking! Be sure to tag me and follow along @therosyfarmhouse