Sourdough Discard Crackers

Looking for a delicious way to use up your sourdough discard? These Sourdough Discard Crackers are the perfect homemade snack! Using just a few simple ingredients like sourdough starter, butter, cheese, and your favorite seasonings, you can make crispy crackers in under an hour. This recipe is a great way to reduce food waste, and the crackers are perfect for dipping, snacking, or serving at parties.

These sourdough crackers are easy to make, savory, and customizable with seasonings like everything bagel, sesame seeds, or flaky sea salt. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or looking for a great way to make use of your discard, these crackers are a healthy alternative to store-bought snacks.

Ingredients

• 200 grams sourdough discard (1 cup stirred and unfed starter)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• Seasonings to taste (e.g., flaky sea salt, everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, etc.)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter in a large mixing bowl or measuring cup and let it cool until lukewarm. Add the sourdough discard and salt, then stir until thoroughly combined.
3. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, using an offset spatula to spread it into a thin, even layer. Aim for a nearly transparent layer (my dough rectangle measured approximately 13×11 inches).
4. Lightly sprinkle the top with flaky salt and your choice of seasonings. Be careful not to add too much salt, as the thin crackers can become overly salty.
5. Bake the mixture for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and use a pizza cutter to score the dough into bite-sized squares.
6. Return the crackers to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until golden and crisp. If they’re not yet firm, continue baking until they feel firm to the touch when tapped.
7. Let the crackers cool on the baking sheet to allow them to fully crisp up. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container or zip bag for freshness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade sourdough discard crackers are the perfect way to use up leftover sourdough starter, turning something that would normally go to waste into a delicious, crunchy snack. The buttery, savory flavor of these crackers makes them irresistible. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite seasonings, and require minimal ingredients. Plus, they’re crispy, light, and perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own.

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Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Texture Tip: For a crunchier cracker, ensure the dough is spread very thin. The thinner the layer, the crispier the cracker.
• Seasoning Options: Experiment with different seasonings like dried herbs, garlic powder, or smoked paprika. Everything bagel seasoning adds a flavorful twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter or olive oil in place of unsalted butter for a dairy-free version.
• Flavor Boost: Add a small amount of freshly grated parmesan cheese to the dough mixture for an extra savory kick.
• Storage: Keep your crackers in an airtight container or zip-top bag to maintain their crispness for up to a week.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a fed sourdough starter instead of discard? Yes! While sourdough discard is ideal, you can use a fed starter. Just note that your crackers might have a slightly more pronounced sourdough flavor.
2. Why are my crackers not crisping up? If your crackers aren’t crisping, they may not be thin enough. Try spreading the dough even thinner or baking for a few extra minutes to ensure they crisp up.
3. How do I prevent my crackers from being too salty? Since the crackers are thin, a little salt goes a long way. Lightly sprinkle with salt, or experiment with different seasonings to balance the flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

These sourdough discard crackers are perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite dips like hummus, guacamole, or even a creamy cheese spread. They’re also great alongside soups or as a crunchy topping for salads. Add a sprinkle of your favorite seasonings and enjoy them as a gourmet snack!