Got sourdough discard piling up and wondering what to do with it? Don’t toss it! Let’s turn it into something magical—fluffy, buttery dinner rolls that are so easy to make, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. If you love the tangy goodness of sourdough but don’t have the time for long fermenting and proofing, this recipe is for you! I used my Bosch mixer, which I adore, but you can use whatever you have, or even your hands, to whip these rolls up in no time. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even as a snack with butter and jam. Let’s get baking and make the most of your sourdough discard!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup sourdough discard (room temperature)
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for brushing)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Activate the Yeast
In the Bosch mixer bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add Sourdough Discard and Wet Ingredients
Add the sourdough discard, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until combined.
Add Flour Gradually
Using the dough hook attachment, add 2 cups of flour and mix on low speed. Gradually add more flour, ¼ cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is soft but not sticky. Knead for about 5-6 minutes in the mixer.
First Rise
Lightly grease the mixer bowl, then place the dough back in it. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, until doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. I really like to use my cast-iron skillet because it makes a crust. Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Brush the rolls with melted butter and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve Warm
Brush again with butter after baking for extra softness.
Wasn’t that easy? These sourdough discard dinner rolls are a game-changer—soft, fluffy, with just the right hint of sourdough tang. Whether you’re pairing them with a hearty stew, serving them as a side for a holiday meal, or enjoying one straight out of the oven with a swipe of butter, they’re sure to impress. Baking with sourdough doesn’t have to be complicated, and this recipe proves it! If you give these a try, let me know how they turn out—I’d love to hear your thoughts. And don’t forget to save this recipe for the next time you have discard to use. Happy baking!