introduction
This quick sourdough discard French bread is simple and fast. It uses sourdough discard so you waste less. It makes a crusty loaf with a soft inside. For ideas to serve it in the morning, check a helpful French breakfast food guide.
why make this recipe
Make this bread because it is:
- Fast to mix and easy to shape.
- A good use for sourdough discard.
- Great for sandwiches, toast, or with soup.
You can pair it with a light bowl of soup, like the quick and versatile busy day soup recipe for a full meal.
how to make Quick Sourdough Discard French Bread
This method is direct and uses active dry yeast to help the dough rise quickly. If you want a flavored twist, try topping slices and turning them into a simple garlic-topped meal like a garlic bread pizza recipe.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup sourdough discard
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
Directions :
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the sourdough discard and salt to the yeast mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Shape the risen dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
- Use a sharp knife to make a few slashes on top of the bread.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing.
how to serve Quick Sourdough Discard French Bread
Slice and serve warm. Use it for sandwiches, dips, or toast with butter. If you like garlic bread styles, see how other places make it in the article about does Pizza Hut make garlic bread for serving ideas.
how to store Quick Sourdough Discard French Bread
- At room temperature: store in a paper bag or bread box for 1-2 days to keep the crust.
- For longer storage: slice and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Toast slices from frozen.
tips to make Quick Sourdough Discard French Bread
- Use warm water, not hot, to wake the yeast.
- Do not add too much flour; the dough should stay slightly tacky.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place.
- For a glossy crust, brush with olive oil before baking.
- If you have extra discard, try other recipes like banana bread with pancake mix which also uses discard or similar batter ideas.
variation (if any)
- Add herbs: mix chopped rosemary or thyme into the dough.
- Add garlic: fold in minced roasted garlic for extra flavor.
- Make small rolls: divide dough into pieces and bake as rolls for sandwiches.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this without active dry yeast?
A: You can try a longer rise with only sourdough discard, but the loaf will take much longer and may be denser.
Q: How do I know the bread is done?
A: It should be golden brown and sound hollow when you tap the bottom.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A: Yes, but use part whole wheat and part all-purpose to keep the texture light.

Quick Sourdough Discard French Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the sourdough discard and salt to the yeast mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Shape the risen dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
- Use a sharp knife to make a few slashes on top of the bread.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let cool before slicing.