Introduction
Tired of tossing your sourdough discard? You’re not alone. If you’re nurturing a sourdough starter, chances are you’ve been puzzled about what to do with all the extra discard. Don’t let that flavorful ingredient go to waste! This Sourdough Discard Everything Bagel Flatbread is the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s crispy, cheesy, savory, and impossibly easy to make. Whether you’re prepping for a laid-back brunch, a fun dinner, or just want a satisfying snack, this flatbread hits all the right notes. Plus, it features the bold, beloved flavors of everything bagel seasoning for a truly crave-worthy twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s a reason this sourdough discard flatbread is becoming a favorite among home bakers and foodies alike:
- Zero Waste: Put your sourdough discard to delicious use.
- Quick & Easy: No long fermentation, no rising time.
- Customizable: Use different cheeses, herbs, or toppings.
- Crispy & Chewy: The perfect texture balance.
- Everything Bagel Goodness: That signature seasoning brings irresistible flavor.
It’s a budget-friendly, creative way to elevate pantry staples into something truly special.
Ingredients
For the flatbread base:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed, room temperature)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
For the topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese or goat cheese (optional, dotted on top)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- Optional: chopped scallions or fresh herbs for garnish
Necessary Tools
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Parchment paper
- Baking stone or baking sheet
- Oven mitts
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
No mozzarella? Try shredded cheddar, provolone, or a blend. Vegan? Use plant-based cheese and replace cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Add protein: Crumbled bacon, smoked salmon, or even a poached egg post-bake. Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or sliced jalapeños on top. Swap herbs: Basil, dill, or chives can add extra freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking stone or sheet inside to preheat for a crispier crust.
2. Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine your sourdough discard, flour, baking powder, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If it’s too wet, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
3. Shape the Flatbread
Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into a rough oval or rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t worry about making it perfect—rustic is beautiful!
4. Par-Bake the Dough
Place your dough on parchment paper and slide it onto the preheated baking stone or sheet. Bake for 5–7 minutes until it starts to puff and the surface sets.
5. Add the Toppings
Remove from the oven. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly, dot with cream cheese (if using), and add the everything bagel seasoning. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Final Bake
Return to the oven and bake for 8–10 more minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden.
7. Garnish & Serve
Cool slightly, then sprinkle with scallions or herbs. Slice and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use parchment to prevent sticking and make transfer easy.
- Preheat the stone or pan for that perfect crisp base.
- Don’t overload with toppings to avoid sogginess.
- Let it rest for a minute or two before slicing to keep the cheese intact.
- Use a pizza cutter for clean slices.
Serving Suggestions
This flatbread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further:
- Brunch Board: Pair with smoked salmon, hard-boiled eggs, and avocado.
- Appetizer Platter: Slice into small pieces and serve with hummus or tzatziki.
- Light Dinner: Pair with a green salad or soup.
- Party Snack: Serve warm as finger food with cocktails.
Storing and Reheating
To Store: Let flatbread cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling.
2. Can I freeze this flatbread? Yes! Freeze it baked or unbaked (without toppings) and reheat directly from frozen.
3. Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free blend, but textures may vary slightly.
4. What if I don’t have everything bagel seasoning? Mix sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, garlic flakes, and salt.
5. Can I use sourdough starter instead of discard? Yes, just make sure it’s unfed and at room temperature.
Conclusion
This Sourdough Discard Everything Bagel Flatbread is the perfect solution for using up discard while treating yourself to something truly special. Easy, customizable, and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and make it your own!
Looking for more no-waste, creative recipes? Dive into our collection of flavorful flatbreads and sourdough ideas.