These Olive Oil Sourdough Discard Crackers are a fun way to use up leftover sourdough starter! They’re crispy, crunchy, and full of rich olive oil flavor.
Making these crackers is super easy. Just mix, roll, and bake! I love serving them with cheese or dipping them in hummus. They’ll disappear quickly—it’s like magic! 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the recipe! It’s the leftover starter that adds flavor and texture. If you don’t have any, you can use a bit of plain yogurt mixed with some active dry yeast as a quick substitute.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings a nice richness. You could swap it for melted butter or another oil like avocado oil, but the flavor will change slightly. I always choose high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but you can use whole wheat flour if you want a nuttier flavor. Just note that the cracker texture may be a bit denser. For gluten-free crackers, try using a gluten-free flour blend; adjust the liquid if needed.
Herbs: Dried oregano or Italian herbs add flavor, but feel free to omit them or replace them with garlic powder, paprika, or even cheese for extra zing! I love experimenting with different spices.
How Do I Get My Crackers Extra Crispy?
Getting those crackers nice and crispy is crucial for a great snack! Start by rolling the dough very thin, about 1/8 inch (3 mm). The thinner you roll it, the crispier they will be.
- Don’t skip the pricking step! Use a fork to poke holes in the dough to keep it from puffing up in the oven.
- Keep a close eye in the last few minutes of baking. They can go from perfectly golden to slightly burnt quickly.
- Cooling on a wire rack helps keep them crispy, as it lets air circulate around the crackers.
How to Make Olive Oil Sourdough Discard Crackers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed starter)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian herb mix (optional)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 to 25 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, you’ll need about 35 to 40 minutes in total. The hard part is waiting for them to cool before you dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the crackers from sticking.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter discard, all-purpose flour, olive oil, salt, and any dried herbs you want to include. Use a spoon or your hands to mix until everything is well combined into a dough.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out very thin—about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. The thinner the dough, the crispier the crackers will be!
4. Cut and Transfer:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the rolled-out dough into small squares or rectangles (about 1 to 2 inches each). Carefully transfer the cut crackers onto your prepared baking sheet.
5. Prick and Season:
Take a fork and prick each cracker multiple times. This step helps them stay flat while baking. Then, brush the tops lightly with a bit more olive oil and sprinkle coarse sea salt on top for that extra crunch and flavor.
6. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and nice and crisp when done!
7. Cool and Store:
Once baked, remove the crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This helps keep them crispy! Store your delicious homemade crackers in an airtight container for up to one week. Enjoy them with your favorite dips or cheeses!
Happy snacking!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition! Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser, so adjust the water content accordingly if the dough seems too dry.
Can I Use a Different Oil?
Absolutely! While olive oil gives these crackers a wonderful flavor, you can substitute with another oil, such as avocado oil or melted coconut oil. Just be aware that the flavor will change slightly, but they’ll still turn out delicious!
How Should I Store the Crackers?
To keep your crackers fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last up to a week, but I bet they won’t last that long!
Can I Add Other Seasonings or Cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even grated cheese. Cheese adds a lovely flavor, but be cautious not to add too much moisture. A sprinkle of garlic powder, paprika, or even sesame seeds can also enhance the taste!
