Patrick Simon October 26, 2025

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Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf Recipe

Name: Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 100 g Sourdough Discard (unfed sourdough starter); 250 g Water; 500 g Bread Flour (or All-Purpose Flour); 10 g Salt; 20 g Sugar; 60 g Butter (salted, room temperature); 7 g Instant Yeast

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When you walk into a kitchen filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread, it feels like a gentle hug. The sight of a golden crust, beautifully rising loaf, brings a sense of comfort and joy. A Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf Recipe encapsulates that feeling perfectly. It’s a fantastic way to make use of sourdough discard, utilizing what would otherwise be waste and transforming it into something enjoyable, perfect for breakfast toast or a delightful sandwich for lunch. This bread is not only practical but also offers wonderful flavor, making it an ideal companion for any meal.

Reasons to Love This Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf Recipe

This Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf Recipe is destined to become a beloved staple in your home. Here’s why:

Utilizes Sourdough Discard: You’ll reduce food waste by using leftover sourdough starter, turning it into something scrumptious.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of basic ingredients, you can whip up a loaf that’s both approachable and satisfying.
Soft and Flavorful: The combination of sourdough with instant yeast ensures a soft, tender crumb with a delightful tang.
Versatile Uses: This loaf works wonderfully for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with a smear of butter.
Homemade Goodness: Baking at home fills your space with an irresistible aroma, creating a warm atmosphere that everyone will love.

Gathering These Ingredients

Before you begin, let’s take a moment to gather everything you’ll need for this satisfying Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting a loaf that is moist and flavorful. If you’d like to lighten it up, consider swapping in turkey bacon for a tasty sandwich filling, or using ground chicken as a lean option in your sandwich creations.

100 g Sourdough Discard (unfed sourdough starter)
250 g Water
500 g Bread Flour (or All-Purpose Flour)
10 g Salt
20 g Sugar
60 g Butter (salted, room temperature)
7 g Instant Yeast

Bringing It Together

Creating this Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf involves one delightful process, broken down into clear steps.

Combine Base Ingredients: In the bowl of your stand mixer or Thermomix, mix together the sourdough discard, water, and flour until it becomes a shaggy dough—this should take about 30 seconds.
Rest Time: Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes. This is known as autolyse and helps develop the gluten.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the salt, sugar, butter, and instant yeast to the bowl. Knead for about 3 to 6 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth, pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
First Rise: Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume. This will take approximately one hour, but can take longer in cooler temperatures.
Prepare the Pan: While the dough is rising, lightly butter a sandwich loaf or Pullman pan to ensure easy release after baking.
Shape the Dough: Once doubled, tip the dough onto a floured surface with the smooth side down. Gently stretch it into a rectangle.
Form the Loaf: With the short side facing you, fold the two sides into the center, then roll the dough tightly into a log with the seam side down. Pull the base slightly toward you to tighten the top of the loaf.
Second Rise: Place the shaped loaf into the prepared pan. Cover and let it rise until it’s just above the rim of the tin, around an hour depending on the warmth of your kitchen.
Baking Preparation: Preheat your oven to 180C/350F, allowing it to warm for about 10 minutes. Lightly mist the surface of the dough with water to encourage a lovely crust.
Bake: Place the loaf in the center of the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown.
Cooling: Carefully remove the loaf from the tin and allow it to cool on a wire rack—this will ensure you have the best texture.

Prep ~ 1 hour, Cook ~ 40-45 minutes, Total ~ 2 hours, Servings ~ 10 slices, Kcal ~ 200 per slice (estimate).

Plan Ahead

If you’re excited about baking but short on time, this Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf can be prepared in advance. The formed loaf can be covered with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the loaf and store it wrapped in foil or in a bread bag at room temperature for a day or two, or freeze it for up to three months. Just let it come to room temperature and refresh it in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf, worry not! Keep it fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. To enjoy it later, simply take out the slices, allow them to thaw at room temperature, or give them a gentle reheat in the toaster until they’re warm and toasty. A quick freshness cue is to check for any signs of dryness or hardening, so you know it’s best enjoyed soon.

Delicious Sides to Consider

This Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods. Here are some delicious ideas to enhance your meal:

Spread with creamy avocado and top with sliced tomatoes for a fresh breakfast.
Layer with turkey bacon and spinach for a satisfying sandwich.
Serve alongside a bowl of hearty soup or stew.
Make French toast with your loaf for a special weekend breakfast treat.
Pair with a bright salad for a light, refreshing lunch option.

Personal Touches and Variations

One of the best things about this Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf Recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are some creative ideas to make it your own:

Add Seeds: Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking for added texture and flavor.
Herbs: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your dough for a fragrant twist.
Cheese: Fold in some shredded cheese during the kneading process for a cheesy loaf.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans can add a wonderfully nutty flavor and crunch to the bread.
Sweet Touch: Stir in raisins or dried cranberries if you’re looking for a touch of sweetness for breakfast.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure perfect results every time you bake your Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf, consider these pro tips:

Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the loaf is around 90C/194F for optimal doneness.
Make sure your workspace is clean and lightly floured to avoid sticking when shaping the dough.
If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a warm spot, like near the oven or in a turned-off microwave to help with rising.
Rotate the loaf halfway through baking to achieve even coloration.
For an extra crispy crust, place a small pan with water in the oven during baking for steam.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute a portion of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.
Can I let the dough rise overnight? Absolutely! If using the refrigerator for the second rise, your dough will develop more flavor. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
Is there a gluten-free option? While this recipe needs wheat flour to achieve the right texture, consider experimenting with gluten-free bread flour blends, though results may vary.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise? If your dough isn’t rising, ensure your yeast is fresh and check if your kitchen is too cold. Sometimes, a warm environment will help jumpstart the process!
Can I add fillings to my bread? Yes! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables, herbs, or even cheese for a delightful flavor boost.

Final Thoughts

Baking a Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf is not just about making bread; it’s about creating something special that brings warmth and joy to your home. This recipe is a wonderful way to utilize leftover ingredients while providing your family and friends with a delightful treat that they’ll undoubtedly cherish. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of baking this inviting loaf. Your kitchen awaits; the delicious aromas and bright smiles are just a few steps away!

Sourdough Discard Sandwich Loaf

Author: patrick
Total Time: 105 minutes
Yield: 10 slices 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Transform sourdough discard into a delightful sandwich loaf that is soft, flavorful, and versatile for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

100 g Sourdough Discard (unfed sourdough starter)
250 g Water
500 g Bread Flour (or All-Purpose Flour)
10 g Salt
20 g Sugar
60 g Butter (salted, room temperature)
7 g Instant Yeast

Instructions

In the bowl of your stand mixer or Thermomix, mix together the sourdough discard, water, and flour until it becomes a shaggy dough—this should take about 30 seconds.
Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes.
Add the salt, sugar, butter, and instant yeast to the bowl. Knead for about 3 to 6 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth.
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume, approximately one hour.
Lightly butter a sandwich loaf or Pullman pan.
Once doubled, tip the dough onto a floured surface and gently stretch it into a rectangle.
Fold the two sides into the center, then roll the dough tightly into a log with the seam side down.
Place the shaped loaf into the prepared pan and let it rise until just above the rim, about one hour.
Preheat your oven to 180C/350F.
Lightly mist the surface of the dough with water and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown.
Carefully remove the loaf from the tin and allow it to cool on a wire rack.