If you have a sourdough starter, chances are you’ve wondered what to do with the discard after each feeding. Instead of tossing it, turn it into these irresistibly crunchy sourdough discard crackers topped with Everything Bagel Seasoning! These crackers are a simple, flavorful, and waste-free snack that pairs well with dips, cheeses, or just on their own.
Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Discard Crackers
- Easy to Make: Just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
- No Waste: Perfect for using leftover sourdough discard.
- Crispy & Crunchy: Baked to perfection with a flaky texture.
- Versatile: Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dips and cheeses.
- Savory & Flavorful: The Everything Bagel Seasoning adds a deliciously salty, garlicky, and nutty crunch.
These homemade crackers are a must-try if you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your sourdough starter discard while reducing kitchen waste.
What is Sourdough Discard?
Sourdough discard is the portion of a sourdough starter that is removed before feeding. It contains fermented flour and water, giving it a mild tangy flavor that enhances baked goods. Instead of throwing it away, you can use it in recipes like pancakes, cinnamon rolls, waffles, and, of course, these crispy crackers!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 1 cup sourdough discard – unfed, straight from the fridge or fresh.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – gives structure to the crackers.
- ¼ cup melted butter or olive oil – adds richness and crispiness.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the flavor.
For Topping:
- ¼ cup Everything Bagel Seasoning – the perfect savory topping.
- Extra melted butter or oil – for brushing before baking.
Optional Additions:
- Parmesan Cheese: Add a little grated cheese for extra flavor.
- Chili Flakes: If you like a spicy kick, sprinkle some chili flakes.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme add a gourmet touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough discard, flour, melted butter (or olive oil), and salt. Stir until the mixture begins to form a dough.
Knead it lightly with your hands until it becomes smooth. If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together. If it’s too sticky, dust a little extra flour.
2. Rest the Dough
Cover the dough with a towel and let it rest for 20 minutes. This allows the flour to hydrate and makes rolling easier.
3. Roll It Out
Divide the dough into two portions. On a sheet of parchment paper, roll out each portion as thinly as possible into a rectangle. The thinner you roll, the crispier the crackers!
Transfer the parchment paper with the rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet.
4. Season & Cut
Brush the surface with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle Everything Bagel Seasoning evenly over the top.
Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into squares or rectangles. Gently slide them apart to prevent sticking while baking.
5. Bake Until Golden & Crisp
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crackers for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crisp.
If some crackers are browning faster than others, remove them early to prevent burning.
6. Cool & Enjoy
Once done, let the crackers cool completely on a wire rack. If any pieces are stuck together, gently break them apart. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Why Use Everything Bagel Seasoning?
Everything Bagel Seasoning is a savory, crunchy, and flavorful mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt. It adds a deliciously nutty, garlicky taste that pairs perfectly with sourdough’s tangy flavor.
You can buy Everything Bagel Seasoning pre-made or make your own by mixing:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (white & black)
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp dried minced garlic
- 1 tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 tsp coarse salt
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Crackers
These crispy homemade crackers pair well with a variety of snacks:
Savory Pairings:
- Cheese Boards: Serve with cheddar, gouda, brie, or goat cheese.
- Dips: Hummus, guacamole, or spinach artichoke dip.
- Charcuterie: Pair with cured meats, olives, and nuts.
Sweet Pairings:
- Honey & Ricotta: A sweet and salty combination.
- Nut Butter: Try almond butter or peanut butter for a delicious crunch.
Tips for the Best Sourdough Crackers
1. Roll the Dough Thin
The thinner the dough, the crispier the crackers. Aim for about ⅛ inch thickness.
2. Don’t Skip the Butter or Oil
Brushing with butter or olive oil before baking enhances flavor and texture.
3. Make Them Even in Size
Cut evenly sized squares to ensure uniform baking.
4. Use a Pizza Cutter for Perfect Edges
A pizza cutter makes slicing the dough quick and easy.
5. Store in an Airtight Container
Once cooled, keep them crisp by storing them in a tightly sealed container.
Common Questions
Can I make these crackers dairy-free?
Yes! Just substitute olive oil for butter.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! You can replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat.
Can I add different seasonings?
Yes! Try rosemary, black pepper, smoked paprika, or grated parmesan for a twist.
How long do sourdough discard crackers last?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Why You Should Try These Crackers Today
Sourdough discard crackers are:
✅ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✅ A great way to use sourdough discard
✅ Perfectly crunchy & flavorful
✅ Versatile for snacking & charcuterie boards
Instead of throwing away your discard, turn it into a delicious homemade snack. Try this Everything Sourdough Crackers recipe today and enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!