Need to feed your sourdough starter but are not sure what to do with the discard? Don’t toss it! This collection of over 18 of the best sourdough discard recipes will inspire you to put that extra starter to good use. There’s something here for everyone, from sweet treats and fluffy pancakes to salty snacks and desserts.
Using discard recipes is a smart and sustainable way to reduce waste in your kitchen—and it opens the door to dozens of flavorful dishes! Most discard recipes are quick to prep, and the natural tang from the starter adds a depth of flavor you can’t get from traditional batters or doughs. Plus, the acidity from the starter improves texture in everything from pancakes to muffins and more.
The best part? These easy sourdough discard recipes don’t require your starter to be active. It can go straight from the counter or freezer into your next bake since it’s not for leavening. Just make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing it into your mixture for the best results. You’ll be amazed at how versatile and delicious an excess starter can be.
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Why We Love These Easy Sourdough Discard Recipes
- It provides a delicious way to reduce food waste.
This technique allows us to make use of the discarded starter that would otherwise be thrown away before it’s time to feed it. - Minimal ingredients.
These recipes often require minimal ingredients and are relatively simple to prepare, making them a convenient option for busy bakers. - Unique flavor.
Using discard offers a unique tangy flavor that adds depth to various dishes.
What is Sourdough Discard?
Sourdough discard is the portion of starter removed during the feeding process to keep the starter alive, active, and at the right consistency. While it’s not as bubbly or potent as a freshly fed starter, it is still rich in flavor and an excellent ingredient for discard recipes! Instead of tossing it out, you can use it to add a unique, tangy taste to your dishes.
For infrequent bakers who store their starter in the fridge, discard becomes even more useful. Every 7-10 days, you’ll want to pull out your starter for a feeding. During that process, the discard can be used in simple recipes using starter and flour, like pancakes, banana bread, pizza crust, and even cinnamon rolls! Learn more about what is sourdough discard with our guide!
🎯 TFN Pro Tip
One thing you don’t ever want to do is put your discard down the drain! This is really important. If you do, eventually you’ll find yourself with a horribly clogged drain. If you must throw it out, put it in the trash.
What to Make with Sourdough Starter Discard
At home, I usually set aside what I need for our family favorites, like overnight sourdough bread or soft sourdough sandwich bread, and other new recipes before feeding my starter. Using discard is not only a way to reduce food waste (no tossing it out) but also an opportunity to elevate the flavor of your cooking and baking with its distinctive tangy taste.
Ready to make your own sourdough starter? You can start with our quick and easy guide.
Do you have a backup starter on hand? Having a backup if yours becomes contaminated, gets moldy, or the jar breaks is essential. Your future self will be happy! Discover how to store your sourdough starter by reading our guide.
Discard Sourdough Recipes
Not every sourdough recipe has to involve baking a beautiful loaf! Here are some of the best discard recipes, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert:
Learn how to keep your sourdough bread fresh with our comprehensive guide to storing sourdough bread.
Overnight Sourdough Recipes (Discard Bread Recipes)
These overnight-rising recipes for sourdough bread dough are perfect for those who enjoy fresh bread in the morning. The long ferment gives the dough rise a flavorful edge and helps create a beautiful, golden brown crust when baked. Serve this with a simple jam or peanut butter . We love using this recipe for grilled cheese or French toast!
Keep your bread fresh and flavorful with proper storage! With our tips on how to keep your sourdough bread longer, you’ll always have delicious bread ready to enjoy—or transform it into a tasty sourdough discard recipe!
Are you having trouble with your starter? Don’t worry—every baker faces challenges along the way! Whether it’s not bubbling, smells off, or won’t rise, there’s a solution to get it back on track with our tips to help it thrive. A healthy starter yields superior results in all recipes, so let’s troubleshoot and help you bake with confidence! Check out our tips about problems with sourdough starter!
Wondering how to keep your sourdough starter happy and ready to use? Proper storage is the key! Knowing how to store it ensures that it stays active and healthy so you can bake daily or occasionally!
Rolls, Buns, and Quick Breads
Nothing says comfort like homemade rolls and quick breads. These recipes are easy to mix with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer, and can be made ahead and frozen, too.
Sourdough Pizza
Homemade pizza gets a tangy upgrade with recipes using sourdough discard:
Sourdough Bread Bowl
Elevate soups and dips with these edible bowls made using starter discard!
🎯 TFN Pro Tip
Always label your discard container with the date. Keeping track of when it was added helps you rotate and use older discard first—and makes planning your prep even easier!
Sourdough Flatbread
For a quick and versatile option, try making recipes with sourdough starter into flatbreads:
With these discard recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for using up your starter discard. Start exploring these easy discard recipes today, and don’t forget to share your favorites!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Just bring it to room temperature first for best results in your recipe.
Yes, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw and use in any discard recipe.
That’s normal! The tanginess actually adds flavor. If it smells bad or off (like mold), toss it.
You’ll need a few basic ingredients: sourdough discard, flour (typically all-purpose flour or bread flour), warm water, salt, and often a small amount of commercial yeast to help the dough rise. Some recipes also include tablespoons of olive oil or honey for added flavor and softness. The discard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor, making it a wonderful way to use up your extra starter without waste.
If you tried these discard recipes or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram for more. Thanks for visiting!
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anthony c says
Thank you. Great webpage. Defiantly will use.