Think sourdough is just for rustic loaves? Think again.
Your sourdough starter can be the base for everything from savoury flatbreads to fluffy pancakes and crunchy crackers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, using up excess starter or simply exploring new ideas, sourdough’s versatility goes far beyond your classic boule.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the most popular (and delicious) ways to use your starter beyond traditional bread.
Savoury Sourdough Creations
Focaccia, bagels and pizza dough
One of the best parts of sourdough baking is how well it lends itself to chewy, structured doughs like:
- Focaccia: With its airy crumb, golden crust and olive oil-infused finish, sourdough focaccia is perfect for sharing
- Bagels: Sourdough bagels have that perfect balance of chewy texture and deep flavour and are easier to make than you might think
- Pizza dough: A slow-fermented sourdough pizza base has a crispy bottom and bubbly edges. It’s perfect for both woodfired and home ovens
Beginner tip: These recipes are great for learning how to handle wetter dough and understand fermentation timing.
Sourdough flatbreads and wraps
If you’ve got starter that needs using and want something fast, flatbreads are your new go-to. They cook in a pan with no need to bake and work great for wraps, dips or as a side.
You can even add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavour.
Sweet Sourdough Recipes
Cakes, muffins and sweet rolls
That tangy starter you’ve been using for bread can also be the secret ingredient in your sweet bakes. The natural acidity of sourdough balances out sweetness beautifully.
Try using it in:
- Cinnamon scrolls or sticky buns
- Chocolate muffins or brownies
- Lemon cakes or tea loaves
Tip: Using discard or recently fed starter in these recipes adds depth without needing long fermentation.
Sourdough banana bread and pancakes
Sourdough banana bread has a dense, moist texture and slightly tangy kick that elevates the classic recipe. And sourdough pancakes? Absolute game changers. They’re light, fluffy and have a bit of complexity that standard pancakes can’t match.
Perfect for slow weekend breakfasts.
Snacks and Everyday Uses
Crackers, waffles and breadsticks
Turn your sourdough discard into tasty snacks that store well and add crunch to your baking rotation.
- Crackers: Mix discard with oil, herbs and salt. Roll thin, bake until crisp and you’ve got an easy snack or cheese board addition
- Waffles: Slightly sour, crispy on the outside and soft in the middle. Perfect for breakfast or lunch
- Breadsticks: Great for soups, grazing boards or lunchbox fillers
These quick bakes are a great way to minimise waste and get creative between bigger bakes.
Ways to use up excess starter
If you’re feeding your starter daily, the discard can build up quickly. Instead of tossing it, keep a discard jar in the fridge and use it in:
- Pancakes or waffles
- Flatbreads or tortillas
- Quick batters and crumb coatings
- Sourdough dumplings or pastry dough
You’ll be amazed how many dishes benefit from that slight sourdough tang.
Find More Recipes
Looking for new ways to use your starter?
You can explore our collection of free recipes on the website, with ideas for every level from beginner-friendly bakes to more advanced creations.
We also release seasonal cookbooks and step-by-step guides, so keep an eye out for new additions. They’re packed with tips, variations and ways to build sourdough into your everyday meals.
Final Thoughts
Your starter can do a lot more than just bake a loaf. From sweet to savoury and snacks to showstoppers, sourdough is one of the most versatile tools in your kitchen.
So go beyond the loaf. Experiment, have fun, and start baking something new today.
Stay Connected
Want fresh ideas every week?
Explore our full recipe collection
Shop our starter kits and tools
👨🍳 Join our Facebook Group to share recipes and get inspiration from other bakers