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Sourdough Discard Focaccia

A pillowy focaccia that utilizes sourdough discard for a mild tang and quick preparation, perfect for sandwiches or as a side dish.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Bread, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 pieces
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 452 grams water (lukewarm, ~75–85°F / 24–29°C)
  • 7 grams instant yeast (1 packet)
  • 42 grams honey (or cane sugar) Use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • 170 grams sourdough discard (active or refrigerated discard is fine) If very sour, reduce to 120–140 g.
  • 540 grams bread flour If using all‑purpose, increase hydration slightly.
  • 90 grams whole wheat flour
  • 12 grams salt
  • 56 grams olive oil (for the dough) Separate from the olive oil for finishing.
  • 56 grams olive oil (reserve for pans and finishing)
  • 7 grams flaky sea salt (for finishing)

Optional Toppings

  • sliced tomatoes Adds freshness.
  • fresh rosemary For aromatic flavor.
  • sliced onions
  • ground pistachios For a nutty crunch.
  • grapes For a sweet twist.

Instructions
 

Make the Dough

  • In a large bowl, combine the water, instant yeast, honey, and sourdough discard. Stir until no visible streaks of discard remain.

Add Flours and Salt

  • Fold in the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until all the flour is hydrated and there are no dry patches.

Knead in Olive Oil

  • Add the 56 g of olive oil and knead it into the dough. It will feel greasy at first but will absorb the oil and soften.

Rest

  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm spot for 15 minutes.

Stretch and Fold

  • After 15 minutes, perform one set of stretch-and-folds. Stretch the dough from the side closest to you and fold it over the top. Turn the bowl 90 degrees and repeat three more times.

Second Stretch and Fold

  • Cover and let rest for another 15 minutes, then repeat one more set of stretch-and-folds.

First Rise

  • Let the dough rise at room temperature until doubled and bubbly, about 30 to 45 minutes.

Prep Pans

  • Line two 9×13-inch baking sheets with foil or parchment. Coat each pan bottom with approximately 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Preheat the oven to 425°F.

Second Rise on Pans

  • Divide the dough into two portions and transfer each to a prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap and rest for 15 minutes.

Shape and Second Short Rise

  • Gently stretch each dough to the pan edges after the rest. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes, until slightly puffy.

Oil and Dimple

  • Pour about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over each dough. Using your fingertips, dimple the dough all over.

Top and Salt

  • Sprinkle flaky sea salt and arrange your desired toppings.

Bake

  • Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and the edges are crisp.

Cool and Slice

  • Transfer the focaccias to a cooling rack. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Store

  • Best the day it’s baked. Keeps up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

For best results, maintain a warm environment for rising. If toppings are fresh, refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
Keyword baking, Bread Recipe, Easy Focaccia, healthy snacks, Sourdough Focaccia