What Makes Sourdough Discard Crackers So Special
There’s a certain magic in the alchemy of baking, isn’t there? Taking something as humble as leftover sourdough discard and transforming it into a batch of golden, crispy, and utterly irresistible Sourdough Discard Crackers is one of my favorite kitchen miracles.
I often get asked, “What can I do with leftover sourdough discard?” and these crackers are always my first answer. They are the perfect solution for avoiding waste and filling your home with the warm, comforting aroma of baking. It’s a little ritual that reminds me of my grandmother, who never let a single scrap go to waste.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unfed sourdough discard
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Estimated Prep & Cook Time for Sourdough Discard Crackers
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your easy sourdough crackers won’t stick and clean-up is a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the sourdough discard, melted butter, and olive oil. Give it a good stir until it’s all beautifully incorporated.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and garlic powder to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overwork it; a little rustic texture is just perfect.
Step 4: Roll It Out
Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet and place a second sheet of parchment paper on top. This is the secret to rolling out these homemade sourdough crackers without a sticky mess.
Step 5: Roll Thin
Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a large, very thin rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick. This thinness is the key to achieving that perfect, satisfying snap.
Step 6: Score the Dough
Remove the top layer of parchment paper. Use a pizza cutter or knife to score the dough into cracker-sized squares. This makes them so easy to break apart after baking.
Step 7: Season and Bake
Lightly brush the surface with a little water or olive oil and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt. This final touch adds that delightful crunch and burst of flavor.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp. Let cool completely on the pan before breaking apart along the scored lines.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
One of the joys of these quick sourdough crackers is how wonderfully adaptable they are. Here are a few of my favorite ways to make them your own.
- Flavor Swap: Swap the garlic powder for everything bagel seasoning, dried rosemary, or a pinch of smoked paprika.
- Diet Tweak: For a dairy-free version, replace the melted butter with an equal amount of extra virgin olive oil.
- Prep Fix: If your dough feels too sticky when rolling, just dust the top lightly with a bit more flour.
- Storage Tip: Keep your crispy sourdough crackers fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Healthier Alternatives for Sourdough Discard Crackers
Many friends often wonder, “Can I make it healthier?” Absolutely! For a whole-grain boost, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat or rye flour. The flavor becomes even more nutty and complex.
You can also reduce the butter slightly and use a touch more olive oil if you prefer. These simple sourdough discard recipes are so forgiving, allowing you to tailor them to your pantry and preferences.
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Crackers
I love setting out a board of these crackers when my book club comes over. They pair so beautifully with a sharp cheddar cheese, a dollop of fig jam, or a simple bowl of tomato soup.
It takes me right back to afternoon teas with my mum. There’s something so comforting about sharing food made with your own hands. A pot of Earl Grey tea is their perfect companion for a truly lovely treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with leftover sourdough discard?
Oh, so many things! Making these Sourdough Discard Crackers is my top choice, but you can also use it in pancakes, waffles, or even to thicken a stew. It’s a wonderful, tangy ingredient waiting to be used.
How do you make sourdough crackers from discard?
It’s wonderfully simple. You just mix your discard with a few pantry staples like flour, butter, and seasonings, roll it thin, and bake. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of delicious homemade crackers.
What is the best recipe for sourdough discard crackers?
Well, I may be biased, but this one is a true favorite in my home. It’s the perfect balance of flaky, crispy, and flavorful. The melted butter adds a richness that makes them utterly irresistible.
Can I use any type of flour for sourdough discard crackers?
You can experiment! While all-purpose flour gives a classic result, you can substitute up to half with whole wheat, rye, or even spelt flour for a heartier, whole-grain cracker with a lovely nutty taste.
Why are my sourdough discard crackers not crispy?
The most common reason is that they weren’t rolled thin enough. Aim for that 1/8-inch thickness. Also, make sure to let them cool completely on the baking sheet—they crisp up as they cool down.
How long do homemade sourdough crackers last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your crispy sourdough crackers will stay fresh and delicious for about a week. If they last that long, that is!
What seasonings can I add to sourdough discard crackers?
The possibilities are endless! I adore everything bagel seasoning, grated parmesan cheese, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Is sourdough discard good for making crackers?
It is absolutely perfect for it! The discard provides a subtle tang and helps create a wonderfully crisp texture. It’s the best way to use up that discard without any fuss.
