If you’re someone who bakes sourdough bread regularly, then you’re probably familiar with the challenge of managing your sourdough discard. Instead of tossing it away, why not put it to good use by making crispy sourdough discard crackers? These crackers are easy to make, full of flavor, and a great way to avoid wasting that extra starter! Plus, they’re perfect for snacking, pairing with cheese, or serving as an appetizer.
In this article, we’ll explore a simple and versatile recipe for sourdough discard crackers, along with some fun variations to suit your taste. Let’s get baking!
What Are Sourdough Discard Crackers?
Sourdough discard crackers are a delicious, crispy snack made from the leftover sourdough starter that’s not fed. This discard can be turned into an amazing crunchy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The process involves mixing the sourdough discard with a few basic ingredients, rolling the dough thin, baking it to perfection, and enjoying a batch of crackers that are both tangy from the starter and aromatic from the seasonings.
Origin of Sourdough Discard Crackers
The origin of sourdough discard crackers stems from the broader tradition of minimizing food waste. Sourdough bakers often find themselves with extra starter, which can be discarded before a fresh feeding. Instead of throwing away this “discard,” people began experimenting with using it in recipes, and crackers quickly became a popular option. The natural fermentation of sourdough adds an extra depth of flavor, making these crackers not only eco-friendly but also irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients (For About 2 Dozen Crackers)
Here’s what you’ll need to make these easy sourdough discard crackers:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (you may need 1–2 extra tbsp)
- Optional seasonings (choose any):
- 1–2 tsp dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
- 1 tsp garlic powder or onion powder
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds, everything bagel mix, or poppy seeds
- Cracked black pepper
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Feel free to customize the seasonings according to your taste. These crackers are very forgiving, so you can play around with different flavors!
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making these delicious sourdough discard crackers.
1. Make the Dough
Start by mixing the sourdough discard, olive oil, salt, and any seasonings of your choice in a bowl. Stir everything until it’s well combined. Next, add the all-purpose flour a little at a time and mix until the dough begins to form. You may need to knead the dough gently for about 1–2 minutes until it’s smooth.
- If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- If the dough feels too dry, add 1 tsp of water to bring it together.
2. Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough is ready, divide it into two halves. Roll each piece of dough out very thin (about ⅛ inch or thinner) between two sheets of parchment paper. This step ensures that your crackers will be super crisp and thin.
Transfer the rolled dough onto a baking sheet. For an extra burst of flavor, brush the top of the dough with a tiny bit of olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt or any seeds you prefer (like sesame or poppy seeds). This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch of flavor and texture.
3. Cut the Dough into Shapes
Once your dough is rolled out, use a sharp knife, pizza cutter, or bench scraper to score the dough into your desired shape: squares, diamonds, or rectangles. Scoring the dough will make it easier to break apart after baking.
4. Bake the Crackers
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18–25 minutes, rotating halfway through. The crackers should be golden and crisp, with edges turning a deep brown. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly once they reach that crispy point.
5. Cool the Crackers
Once they’re out of the oven, let your crackers cool completely on a wire rack. They will crisp up even more as they cool, giving you that perfect crunch with each bite!
Flavor Variations for Sourdough Discard Crackers
If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some delicious variations to try:
Herb & Olive Oil Crackers
For a Mediterranean twist, add 2 tsp of Italian herbs (like basil, oregano, and thyme) to your dough. Sprinkle rosemary sea salt on top before baking for an extra pop of flavor.
Cheesy Parmesan Crackers
If you’re a fan of cheesy snacks, stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan into the dough. These crackers have a lovely umami flavor that pairs beautifully with dips or wine.
Spicy Crackers
For a kick of heat, add ¼–½ tsp of chili flakes and ½ tsp smoked paprika to the dough. These spicy crackers are perfect for pairing with guacamole or salsa.
Everything Bagel Crackers
Brush the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning before baking. This variation is full of flavor and perfect for anyone who loves the combination of garlic, onion, and sesame seeds.
FAQs About Sourdough Discard Crackers
How long will these crackers stay fresh?
Store your sourdough discard crackers in an airtight container for up to one week. If they soften over time, re-crisp them by popping them back in the oven for about 5 minutes at 300°F (150°C).
Can I make Sourdough Discard Crackers gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well for baking.
Can I freeze these crackers?
Yes, you can freeze the sourdough discard crackers. Once they’ve cooled, store them in an airtight bag or container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake them at a low temperature to bring back the crispiness.
Conclusion: Sourdough Discard Crackers
Making sourdough discard crackers is a simple and enjoyable way to use up extra starter while creating a flavorful, crunchy snack. Whether you like them herby, cheesy, or spicy, there’s a variation for everyone. These crackers are perfect for pairing with cheese, dips, or just enjoying on their own. Plus, with just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can have a batch of homemade crackers ready to snack on in no time. Enjoy!
