These Seasoned Cheesy Crackers with Sourdough Discard are crispy, tangy, savory little bites that disappear almost as quickly as they come out of the oven.
I want to say they taste similar to those cheesy orange crackers from the grocery store… but honestly, these feel like the homemade upgraded version. They have a richer cheesy flavor, a slight sourdough tang, and a crisp crunch that makes them hard to stop eating. Plus they come together in less than 5 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
These crackers have become such a hit with my daughter’s friends that they now request them whenever they come over. They’re mild enough for kids, flavorful enough for adults, and perfect fresh from the oven after a little outdoor playtime.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it helps use up sourdough discard in a really easy and practical way. No complicated shaping, no rolling dough—just mix, spread, bake, and crack apart into delicious crispy pieces.
If you’re local to me, I’m always happy to share some sourdough starter because somehow I always seem to have extra. Maybe this is your sign to start your own sourdough journey too.
So put on your Apron First and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Crispy cheesy tangy flavor
- Uses extra sourdough discard
- Comes together in about 5 minutes
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- Perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or charcuterie boards
Ingredients
Seasoning Mix
(Can be stored in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, makes a few batches)
- Everything Bagel Seasoning (3 tbsp) – Adds garlic, onion, sesame, and savory crunch
- Poppy Seeds (1 tsp) – Adds texture and subtle nutty flavor
- Celery Seeds (½ tsp) – Gives classic savory snack flavor
- Mustard Seeds (½ tsp) – Slight tang and depth
- Paprika (2 tsp) – Adds warmth and color
- Cayenne (dash) – Optional slight heat
- Parmesan Cheese (2 tbsp grated) – Rich cheesy flavor
For the Crackers
- Butter (3 tbsp melted) – Helps create crisp buttery crackers
- Sourdough Discard (200–210g | about ¾ cup) – Adds tang and structure; best when flat and runny
- Seasoning Mix (3–4 tsp) – Brings all the savory cheesy flavor
{All ingredients listed below with exact amounts needed.}
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Offset spatula
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
- Kitchen scale (optional but helpful)
- Above are links to the tools I use in my kitchen everyday!
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Step 1: Preheat Oven & Make Seasoning
Preheat oven to 325°F.
Prepare a baking sheet lined with:
-silicone baking mat OR parchment paper
Mix together seasoning ingredients, store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. This mix will make a few batches, and saves for about 3 months…although is gone way before that at our home.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a bowl combine:
-seasoning mix
-sourdough discard
-melted butter
Stir until fully combined.
Step 3: Spread Thinly
Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet.
Using an offset spatula, spread the batter as thinly and evenly as possible.
Thin batter = crispy crackers.
Step 4: Initial Bake
Bake for 10 minutes.
Remove from oven and use a knife or pizza cutter to score into cracker-sized squares. Place back in oven.
Step 5: Finish Baking
Return to oven for an additional 25–30 minutes until golden and crisp.
Check during the final 5 minutes since thinner edges may crisp faster.
6. Cool
Immediately sprinkle lightly with coarse salt if desired.
Allow crackers to cool completely before breaking apart and serving.
Store in an airtight container.
Table Conversation Starter:
What’s your favorite snack food of all time?
Crunchy snacks or chewy snacks—which would you choose?
If you could invent a new cracker flavor, what would it be?
What’s the best snack for movie night?
Tips and Tricks
- Spread very thin – The thinner the batter, the crispier the crackers
- Use an offset spatula – Makes spreading much easier
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking – Helps even crisping
- Watch edges carefully – Thin edges can brown quickly
- Cool completely before storing – Prevents trapped moisture and sogginess
- Customize flavors – Add ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, or cheddar powder
You might also like these:
- Cream cheese or soft cheeses
- Hummus
- Salami or charcuterie boards
- Salmon, Potato & Leek Chowder
- Mini Blue Cheese Burger Sliders
- Shaved Brussels Sprout Chickpea Salad
Troubleshooting Crackers
Crackers turned chewy instead of crispy
They likely need a few more minutes baking or weren’t spread thin enough.
Edges burned before center crisped
Your batter may have been unevenly spread. Try keeping edges slightly thicker next time.
Crackers stuck to the pan
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easiest removal.
Crackers softened after storage
Allow them to cool fully before storing. You can also re-crisp in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.
Savory Sourdough Snack Crackers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix together seasoning if you need.
- Mix discard, butter, and seasoning mix together.
- Spread thinly onto lined baking sheet.
- Bake 10 minutes.
- Score into squares.
- Bake another 25–30 minutes until crisp. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Spread very thin – The thinner the batter, the crispier the crackers
- Use an offset spatula – Makes spreading much easier
- Rotate the pan halfway through baking – Helps even crisping
- Watch edges carefully – Thin edges can brown quickly
- Cool completely before storing – Prevents trapped moisture and sogginess
- Customize flavors – Add ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, or cheddar powder
Table Conversation Starters 🍽️
- What’s your favorite snack food of all time?
- Crunchy snacks or chewy snacks—which would you choose?
- If you could invent a new cracker flavor, what would it be?
- What’s the best snack for movie night?
