Sourdough Discard Pop Tarts

Author: Emily

Published: 15 July 2025

Updated: 10 January 2026

When I first started baking with sourdough, I had so much leftover discard. At first, it felt wasteful. But then, I stumbled across a magical idea: Sourdough Discard Pop Tarts! These little pastries are flaky, buttery, and utterly scrumptious. Not to mention, they make excellent use of that sourdough discard. I love how easy they are to make. Plus, you can fill them with whatever your heart desires!

why make this recipe

Nothing warms my heart like homemade treats. This is the ultimate way to enjoy that sourdough goodness while indulging in a sweet snack. Imagine biting into a warm pop tart with your favorite jam oozing out. Yum! They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, making pop tarts at home is way more fun than grabbing a store-bought one. You can customize them to fit your taste.

how to make Sourdough Discard Pop Tarts

Let’s dive into the process! Here’s what you need to gather:

Ingredients:
1 cup sourdough discard,
2 cups all-purpose flour,
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed,
1/4 cup granulated sugar,
1/4 teaspoon salt,
1/4 cup cold water,
Filling of choice (jam, chocolate, or custard),
Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

Now, let’s get started!

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. I like using a pastry cutter for this, but a fork works too!
Gradually add the cold water, mixing until a dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out later.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into rectangles. Aim for about 3×4 inches, but it doesn’t have to be perfect!
Place a spoonful of your chosen filling on half of the rectangles. I often go with raspberry jam or chocolate. The choices are endless!
Top the filled rectangle with the remaining ones. Seal the edges using a fork for that classic pop tart look.
Brush the tops with egg wash for that beautiful golden color.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re wonderfully golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Let them cool before serving. It’s tough, but trust me—it’s worth the wait!

how to serve Sourdough Discard Pop Tarts

These pop tarts are delightful on their own, but I love serving them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing. You could also serve them alongside some creamy whipped cream or ice cream for an extra treat. Who can resist a warm pop tart à la mode?

how to store Sourdough Discard Pop Tarts

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container. They keep well at room temperature for a day or two, but they’re best enjoyed fresh. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just pop them in the toaster for a quick warm-up!

tips to make Sourdough Discard Pop Tarts

Make sure your butter is really cold. It helps create those lovely flaky layers.
Feel free to experiment with fillings! You could even try this recipe with savory elements. Think cream cheese and herbs for a brunch twist or a rich custard for dessert.
If you want to impress, try adding a hint of vanilla or lemon zest to the dough for added flavor. It’s a small touch, but it really makes a difference!
Don’t forget—the secret to a perfect crust is not to overwork the dough. Mix just until incorporated and then let it rest in the fridge.

variation (if any)

If you’re looking to shake things up, why not try a different kind of pastry? You could make sourdough hand pies or even sourdough croissants! The dough is versatile, and you can play around until you find the flavor that suits you just right.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour gives a slightly nuttier flavor and can be a good alternative.

What type of filling works best?
That all depends on your taste! Jam, chocolate spread, or even a creamy vanilla custard are fantastic choices.

Can I freeze the raw pop tarts before baking?
Yes! If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze them before baking. Just make sure to bake them straight from the freezer. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy making these delightful Sourdough Discard Pop Tarts. They are sure to bring a bit of warmth and sweetness to your kitchen!

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