25 Must-Try Sourdough Discard Recipes for Every Home Baker

ByMarigold Banks Updated
Sourdough Discard Recipes - Guyo's Guide

Got extra sourdough starter? 

Don’t throw it away! 

In this article, we’ll share amazing sourdough discard recipes you can make at home. 

From pancakes to crackers, these ideas are easy, fun, and delicious. Ready to make the most of your discard? 

Let’s get started!

1. Sourdough Pancakes

A photo of a stack of fluffy sourdough discard pancakes on a rustic ceramic plate, with a side of fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries. The pancakes are topped with a generous pat of melting butter and drizzled with amber maple syrup that pools on the plate. A fork is placed beside the plate. A linen napkin is placed nearby on a white wooden breakfast table.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Fluffy, golden, and slightly tangy, sourdough pancakes are a delightful way to use up sourdough discard. 

They cook up beautifully on a griddle and can be paired with your favorite toppings, from maple syrup to fresh fruit or whipped cream. 

Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these pancakes have a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from regular pancakes. 

Make a big batch to freeze for busy mornings!

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2. Sourdough Crackers

A wooden serving tray with a spread of golden-brown sourdough discard crackers. The crackers have a rustic, irregular shape with visible flecks of herbs and a light sprinkle of coarse sea salt. In the center of the tray is a small bowl of creamy hummus. Alongside the hummus are wedges of sharp cheddar and soft brie. The tray is placed on a beige cloth.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Crispy and savory, sourdough crackers are a crowd-pleasing snack that’s easy to whip up. 

The discard gives them a complex, nutty flavor that pairs well with cheese, hummus, or even just a sprinkle of sea salt. 

These crackers are a great addition to charcuterie boards or as an on-the-go snack for kids and adults alike.

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3. Sourdough Pizza Dough

A photo of a raw sourdough discard pizza dough ball on a wooden board next to a rolling pin. The dough ball is dusted lightly with flour. In the background, there is a partially topped pizza with tomato sauce, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella. The pizza is ready for the oven. The faint bubbles and soft texture of the dough highlight its airy and chewy potential. A flour-dusted countertop and a hint of olive oil glisten nearby, signaling fresh pizza preparation.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Transform your sourdough discard into the perfect base for homemade pizza. 

The discard adds a rich depth to the crust, creating a crispy outside and soft, airy inside. 

Top it with your favorite sauces, cheeses, and veggies, and enjoy a pizza night that rivals any pizzeria. 

This is a must-try for pizza lovers who enjoy a gourmet touch.

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4. Sourdough Muffins

A photo of a ceramic plate with a dozen sourdough discard muffins. The muffins have golden domed tops and are dusted with powdered sugar. The powdered sugar adds a delicate crunch to the muffins. Some muffins are split open, revealing their moist and fluffy interiors. The interiors contain visible cooked blueberries. The muffins are arranged in a circle. The plate is placed on a wooden surface. The background is blurred, showing a kitchen with utensils and ingredients.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Sweet or savory, sourdough muffins are moist, tender, and loaded with flavor. 

From blueberry to chocolate chip, or even cheddar and jalapeño, the possibilities are endless. 

The sourdough discard brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness or enhances the savory notes, making them perfect for breakfast or a midday treat.

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5. Sourdough Flatbread

A photo of a stack of freshly made sourdough flatbreads on a light, striped kitchen towel draped over a wooden plate. The flatbreads are golden brown with appetizing charred spots. They are slightly irregular in shape, emphasizing their homemade authenticity. The flatbreads are garnished with freshly chopped parsley, which contrasts beautifully against the warm beige of the bread, adding a hint of freshness.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Sourdough flatbread is versatile and easy to make. 

Use it as a wrap, a base for toppings, or enjoy it plain with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs. 

The discard gives the flatbread a chewy texture and a slight tang, making it stand out from store-bought options. 

Great for quick lunches or as a side for soups and stews.

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6. Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

A close-up photo of golden-brown sourdough discard cinnamon rolls in a baking dish. The rolls have a spiral pattern and are glistening with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling. Thick cream cheese frosting is generously spread over the top, with some of it dripping down the sides of the rolls. A silver spatula is resting in the empty space where a piece has been removed, revealing the tender, flaky layers inside. The background is warm and inviting.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Soft, pillowy sourdough cinnamon rolls are a decadent treat for breakfast or dessert. 

The sourdough discard adds a unique tang that complements the sweet cinnamon filling. 

Topped with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends, making them perfect for special occasions.

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7. Sourdough Waffles

A photo of crispy sourdough discard waffles stacked high on a white plate. The golden grid pattern of the waffles catches the light. Freshly whipped cream and a drizzle of honey cascade over the top. The plate is accompanied by sliced bananas and strawberries, completing the perfect breakfast spread.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Crispy on the outside and tender inside, sourdough waffles are a breakfast staple with a twist. 

The discard gives them a delicious depth of flavor, making every bite more satisfying. 

Top with fresh berries, banana, or any fruit of your choice, whipped cream, and a drizzle of honey for a gourmet experience right at home.

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8. Sourdough Biscuits

A rustic basket lined with a checkered cloth holds flaky sourdough discard biscuits. The biscuits have a golden top and are glistening with a light brush of butter. One biscuit is split open, revealing a steaming, airy interior. The scene is set against a farmhouse-style grey wooden tabletop, evoking a classic Southern aesthetic. The atmosphere is bright, bathed in natural light.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Flaky and buttery, sourdough biscuits are the ultimate comfort food. 

The discard lends them a tangy undertone, elevating their flavor beyond the ordinary. 

Serve them warm with butter and jam, or as a side to soups, stews, and gravies. 

These biscuits are a hit at family dinners and holiday gatherings.

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9. Sourdough Banana Bread

A warm and inviting scene with a loaf of sourdough discard banana bread on a wooden cutting board. The bread has a crackled top and is perfectly golden brown. There is a slice of the bread cut, revealing a moist, rich interior dotted with melted chocolate chips. The background is a cozy kitchen with a few utensils and a small plant. The lighting is soft and natural, casting gentle shadows.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

A classic with a tangy twist, sourdough banana bread is moist, flavorful, and irresistible. 

The discard enhances the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. 

Add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to customize it to your liking.

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10. Sourdough Pretzels

A photo of a white plate with freshly baked sourdough pretzels. The pretzels have a glossy, golden-brown crust and a twisted shape. Each pretzel is sprinkled with coarse sea salt crystals. The plate is placed on a marble surface. There is a corner of a neutral-colored linen napkin visible. The background is minimalist.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Soft or crunchy, sourdough pretzels are a fun and satisfying project. 

The discard gives the pretzels a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with coarse salt or sweet cinnamon sugar. 

Dip them in mustard, cheese sauce, or even chocolate for a delicious snack or appetizer.

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11. Sourdough Cookies

A close-up shot of a plate filled with soft and chunky chocolate chip cookies stacked in an inviting tower. The cookies are golden brown, with tiny specks of melted chocolate chips visible through the cookie dough, hinting at their chewy texture and rich, homemade flavor. In the background, slightly blurred, is a clear glass of milk, perfectly complementing the cookies and enhancing the cozy, comforting atmosphere of the image. The plate rests on a light-colored striped cloth, and the neutral tones of the setup keep the focus on the cookies. These cookies are ideal for enjoying as a snack, dessert, or alongside a warm drink, evoking memories of freshly baked treats shared at home.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Chewy, crisp, and uniquely flavored, sourdough cookies are a delightful surprise. 

The discard adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness of chocolate chips, dried fruit, or caramel. 

These cookies are a conversation starter, offering a twist on traditional recipes that’s sure to be loved by kids and adults alike.

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12. Sourdough Pancake Muffins

A close-up view of three small, fluffy muffins on a white plate, glistening with a generous drizzle of syrup. The syrup pools slightly at the base of each muffin, highlighting their moist texture and golden-brown color. The muffins have a light, airy appearance, with soft, rounded tops that look freshly baked. The minimalist background and neutral tones emphasize the muffins, making them the star of this tempting and cozy culinary image.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Combine the convenience of muffins with the fluffy texture of pancakes by making sourdough pancake muffins. 

Pour pancake batter into muffin tins and bake for a grab-and-go breakfast. 

Add berries, chocolate chips, or nuts for variety. 

They’re perfect for meal prep and stay moist and flavorful thanks to the sourdough discard.

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13. Sourdough Naan

A photo of a stack of freshly made sourdough naans on a light wooden plate. The naans are golden brown with appetizing charred spots, slightly irregular in shape, emphasizing their homemade authenticity. They are brushed with fresh garlic butter, which contrasts beautifully with the warm beige of the bread, adding a hint of freshness. To the side, a bowl of curry sits with a spoon dipped in, complementing the scene. The charred spots on the naan highlight their freshly cooked appeal. Everything is placed on a white kitchen countertop.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Soft and slightly chewy, sourdough naan is a fantastic side for curries, soups, or stews. 

The discard adds a tangy flavor that elevates this Indian-inspired flatbread. 

Brush it with garlic butter or sprinkle it with herbs for extra flavor. 

It’s easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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14. Sourdough Tortillas

A photo of a stack of freshly made sourdough tortillas on a light wooden plate. The tortillas are golden brown with appetizing charred spots, slightly irregular in shape, emphasizing their homemade authenticity. The charred spots enhance their freshly cooked appeal. Everything is placed on a white kitchen countertop. In the blurred background, one taco is filled with grilled chicken, avocado, and fresh salsa, creating a taco setup.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Why settle for store-bought when you can make sourdough tortillas at home? 

These tortillas are soft, pliable, and have a distinct tangy flavor thanks to the discard. 

Perfect for tacos, wraps, or quesadillas, they bring a homemade touch to your meals and are surprisingly simple to prepare.

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15. Sourdough Dumplings

A photo of a steaming ceramic bowl of chicken soup topped with fluffy sourdough discard dumplings. The dumplings are golden and puffed up, floating on the broth. There are sprigs of chopped parsley scattered on top for garnish. A spoon rests in the bowl, hinting at the comforting first bite.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Elevate soups and stews with sourdough dumplings. 

These pillowy delights are enriched with the tangy flavor of sourdough discard and cook up light and fluffy. 

They’re a comforting addition to hearty dishes, providing a textural contrast to broths and gravies. 

Great for cozy, cold-weather meals.

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16. Sourdough Pancake Bread

A photo of a white kitchen countertop with a cozy breakfast setup. There are slices of sourdough discard pancake bread on a plate. The bread has a soft and airy texture. There is a drizzle of maple syrup on the plate, creating a pool that contrasts with the bread. A cup of coffee is placed next to the plate. A checkered napkin is placed on the countertop. The background is a blurry view of a warm and inviting kitchen scene.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

This hybrid between pancakes and bread is a breakfast revelation. 

With a soft texture and subtle tang from the discard, sourdough pancake bread can be sliced and toasted or eaten as-is. 

Spread with butter, jam, or nut butter for a quick and satisfying start to the day.

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17. Sourdough Granola Bars

A photo of sourdough discard granola bars stacked on parchment paper. The bars have crisp edges and are dotted with oats, dried cranberries, and chocolate chunks. A blurry small mason jar of honey with a dipper leans nearby. The background includes a wooden cutting board.
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For a unique and tangy twist on traditional granola bars, incorporate sourdough discard into the mix. 

These bars are chewy, packed with nuts and dried fruit, and perfect for on-the-go snacking. 

The sourdough adds a depth of flavor that complements the natural sweetness of honey or syrup.

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18. Sourdough English Muffins

A close-up view of freshly baked sourdough English muffins resting on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The muffins are round with a smooth, pale golden exterior, and each features a lightly browned, toasted top that displays a slightly uneven texture. A light dusting of cornmeal coats the bottoms and sides of the muffins, adding a rustic touch. The parchment paper below has scattered traces of cornmeal, enhancing the homemade appearance. The background subtly reveals the edge of a metallic baking tray, complementing the warm tones of the muffins and their inviting, freshly baked aesthetic. The muffins have a smooth texture throughout, with no rough patches.
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Make mornings special with homemade sourdough English muffins. 

The discard creates nooks and crannies perfect for catching butter and jam. 

They’re soft, chewy, and far more flavorful than their store-bought counterparts. 

Perfect for breakfast sandwiches or as a simple toasted treat.

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19. Sourdough Brownies

A photo of a tray of sourdough discard brownies with glossy tops, slightly cracked. One brownie is cut open, revealing a dense, fudgy interior with visible swirls of melted chocolate, emphasizing its indulgent appeal. The tray is placed on a white countertop.
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Rich, fudgy, and with a tangy twist, sourdough brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream. 

The discard enhances the flavor, adding depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of chocolate. 

These brownies are gooey, indulgent, and impossible to resist, making them a must-try for dessert fans.

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20. Sourdough Bagels

A photo of a close-up view of freshly baked sourdough bagels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The bagels are golden brown with a shiny, glossy finish. Some bagels are topped with white sesame seeds, while others have a mix of sesame, poppy seeds, and other seasonings, giving them the look of an "everything bagel." The seeds are spread unevenly, adding a rustic, homemade touch. Some loose seeds are scattered on the parchment paper. Bright natural light shines down, making the tray and its contents stand out against the white countertop.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Chewy and flavorful, sourdough bagels are a homemade breakfast favorite. 

The discard gives them a subtle tang that sets them apart from traditional recipes. 

Top with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or everything seasoning for variety. 

Enjoy them with cream cheese, smoked salmon, or just butter.

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21. Sourdough Coffee Cake

A photo of a single square slice of coffee cake on a light beige ceramic plate. The coffee cake has a dense yet soft texture. The base is a pale, moist crumb that appears fluffy and rich. A cinnamon-brown sugar ribbon runs horizontally through the middle, adding a layer of sweetness and flavor. The top of the cake features a generous crumble topping made of golden-brown sugar, butter, and chopped pecans, providing a crunchy contrast to the soft base. The crumble topping is uneven and slightly chunky, adding a rustic, homemade look. The lighting highlights the textures and colors, emphasizing the moistness of the crumb and the crispiness of the topping. In the background, there is a blurred dark brown surface and an out-of-focus hint of a modern kitchen, which subtly sets the scene without detracting from the main focus: the coffee cake. A fork rests on the right side of the plate, partially visible and adding
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Tender and moist, sourdough coffee cake is the perfect treat for brunch or dessert. 

The discard adds a tang that complements the sweet crumble topping. 

Serve it alongside coffee or tea for a comforting and indulgent snack that will impress your guests.

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22. Sourdough Popovers

A photo of a bowl filled with freshly baked golden-brown popovers, looking like muffins, on a white linen cloth. The popovers are small, puffed, and have a slightly cracked, airy texture with a smooth, shiny crust. Their golden hue indicates a perfectly baked finish, with light browning at the peaks and edges. The white cloth lining the bowl has small, decorative perforations, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation. The blurry white background provides a clean, bright setting, emphasizing the rich golden tones of the popovers and giving the image a fresh, inviting feel.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Light, airy, and slightly tangy, sourdough popovers are a fantastic addition to any meal. 

The discard gives them a depth of flavor that pairs well with butter, jam, or savory fillings like cheese or ham. 

These popovers are a versatile and impressive option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

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23. Sourdough Chocolate Cake

A photo of a slice of sourdough discard chocolate cake on a white dessert plate. The cake has a rich, dark texture and is layered with creamy chocolate frosting. The top of the cake is decorated with powdered sugar and a fresh strawberry. The background is clean and simple.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

For a dessert that’s rich, moist, and unforgettable, try sourdough chocolate cake. 

The discard adds complexity to the chocolate flavor, creating a cake that’s both indulgent and unique. 

Perfect for celebrations or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this cake is a showstopper.

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24. Sourdough Crepes

A photo of a white ceramic plate with golden sourdough discard crepes. The crepes are folded neatly into quarters and lightly sprinkled with powdered sugar. Beside the crepes, there are fresh blueberries, strawberries, and a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a sweet finishing touch. The plate sits on a bright white table, bathed in natural light, with a soft, blurry white background.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Delicate and versatile, sourdough crepes are perfect for sweet or savory fillings. 

The discard adds a subtle tang that elevates the flavor, making them a step above regular crepes. 

Fill with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even sautéed vegetables for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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25. Sourdough Doughnuts

A plate of sourdough discard doughnuts sits on a bright white table, glowing in natural light. The doughnuts have golden, shiny crusts coated with a glossy glaze. Some are dusted with powdered sugar. In the background, a steaming mug of coffee adds to the cozy scene, creating the perfect doughnut moment. The soft, blurry white background keeps the focus on the delicious treats.
Photo by our team – Guyo’s Guide

Light and fluffy, sourdough doughnuts are a fun and tasty way to use discard. 

The tangy flavor complements the sweetness of glazes, sugar coatings, or chocolate drizzle. 

They’re perfect for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even a festive treat for special occasions.

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Wrap Up

Sourdough discard recipes turn waste into tasty treats! 

From fluffy pancakes to chewy bagels, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Try these ideas and discover how creative baking can be. 

Don’t let your discard go to waste—bake up some magic and share the joy. 

Happy baking!

Sourdough discard recipes
Marigold Banks

Marigold Banks is a food writer at Guyo's Guide. With a rich background as a chef and event planner, she brings a unique culinary perspective and flair for detail to her articles. Marigold's passion for food and expert insights make her a valued voice on our blog.

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