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Perfect Sourdough Discard French Bread

Perfect Sourdough Discard French Bread


  • Author: OliviaBennett
  • Total Time: ~4 hours

Description

Every time I bake this bread, it’s like channeling my Grandma Edie’s spirit—turning humble scraps into golden comfort. The crust? Crackly and proud. The inside? Soft, with just a whisper of tang from sourdough discard. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm loaf of nostalgia, resourcefulness, and joy. If you’ve ever stared at that discard jar and wondered “what now?”, this is your answer. Let’s turn waste into wonder.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 200g sourdough discard (100% hydration)

  • 430g warm water

  • 40g honey (or maple syrup)

  • 10g instant yeast

  • 70g coconut oil (or neutral/melted butter)

  • 20g fine sea salt

  • 860g bread flour (or all-purpose + vital wheat gluten)


Instructions

  1. Bloom yeast in warm water, discard, and honey—watch for bubbles (5–10 min).

  2. Mix in oil and salt. Gradually add flour. Form a soft, shaggy dough.

  3. Knead until smooth and elastic (8–10 min). Use windowpane test.

  4. First rise in a warm spot until doubled (1–2 hrs).

  5. Shape into 2 loaves. Fold, roll, pinch, and place seam-side down.

  6. Second rise 30–45 min. Preheat oven to 375°F. Place a metal pan on the bottom rack.

  7. Score & bake 30–35 min. Add ½ cup ice to pan for steam. Loaves should sound hollow when tapped.

  8. Cool completely before slicing (1 hr). Patience = perfect texture!

Notes

  • Don’t rush cooling—let the crumb set!

  • No bread flour? Boost all-purpose with gluten for better chew.

  • For crunch: dust parchment with cornmeal before baking.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 160 1 slice of 16
  • Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g