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Sourdough Discard Focaccia That’s Shockingly Easy to Make

Sourdough Discard Focaccia

Chef James AI
Make crispy, airy sourdough discardfocaccia with this easy, no-knead recipe! Perfect for beginners, with simple ingredientsand delicious flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 8 Slices
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

Basic Dough Ingredients

  • ½ cup 120g sourdough discard (unfed, room temperature)
  • 2 ½ cups 315g all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
  • 1 cup 240ml warm water (helps activate gluten for a soft texture)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for richness and a tender crumb
  • 1 teaspoon salt balances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar optional, enhances browning
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast helps with a reliable rise, especially in cooler kitchens

For Topping & Flavor

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for that classic crispy crust
  • Flaky sea salt sprinkled on top for extra crunch
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme adds an aromatic touch
  • Garlic cloves thinly sliced (optional, for deeper flavor)
  • Cherry tomatoes olives, or cheese (for extra variation)

Instructions
 

Mix the Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, warm water, and honey (or sugar) until combined.
  • Add the flour, yeast, and salt, then mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
  • Drizzle in olive oil, folding it into the dough until fully absorbed. The dough will be wet—that’s normal!

First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

  • Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 3–4 hours, or until doubled in size.
  • For deeper flavor, place the dough in the fridge for an overnight cold fermentation (8–24 hours).

Shape the Focaccia

  • Grease a baking pan generously with olive oil to ensure a crispy bottom.
  • Transfer the dough to the pan, gently stretching it toward the edges. Don’t force it—let it rest for 10 minutes if needed.
  • Once relaxed, use oiled fingertips to dimple the dough, creating deep pockets for that signature focaccia texture.

Second Rise

  • Cover and let the dough rise again at room temperature for 45–60 minutes until puffed and airy.

Add Toppings & Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Drizzle the dough generously with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky salt, fresh rosemary, and garlic slices.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.
  • Let it cool slightly before slicing—then enjoy the fluffy, flavorful bread you just created!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 180
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
Keyword Sourdough discard focaccia