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Dehydrated sourdough starter spilling out of a jar.

How to Dehydrate Sourdough Starter

Learn how to dehydrate your sourdough starter for easy, long-term storage. This simple method helps you preserve your starter for months (or even years), create backups, and share it as a thoughtful gift with friends. Perfect for when you need to take a baking break or just want a little peace of mind knowing your starter is safe and ready to rehydrate anytime.
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Prep Time:10 minutes
Dry Time:1 day
Total Time:1 day 10 minutes
Keyword: dehydrated sourdough starter, how to dehydrate sourdough starter, how to dry sourdough starter, how to rehydrate sourdough starter

Equipment

  • Dehydrator
  • Blender
  • Parchment paper or just dehydrator liner
  • Spirtle or spatula (to spread starter)
  • Measuring Cups
  • Mason Jar (or any airtight container)
  • Label and marker (for the date and flour type)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Sourdough Starter (fed and active)

Instructions

  • Feed your starter a few hours before dehydrating so it’s at its peak; bubbly and active.
  • Spread a thin layer (about ¼ inch thick) of starter onto a dehydrator tray lined with parchment paper or just the liner.
  • Set your dehydrator to 115°F (46°C) and let it run for about 12 to 24 hours. The drying time may vary slightly depending on humidity and the thickness of your spread.
  • Check for dryness: Your starter should be completely dry and brittle, snapping easily when broken.
  • Break or blend the dried starter into small flakes or powder.
  • Label and store it in a mason jar or airtight container with the date and flour type noted.

Notes

How to Store Your Dehydrated Starter
Once your sourdough starter is completely dry, proper storage will keep it fresh and ready to use. When stored correctly, your dried starter can last 6 months to a year (and often longer).
  • Mason jars: Airtight and reusable, perfect for your pantry shelf.
  • Mylar bags: Ideal for long-term storage. Add an oxygen absorber for extra protection.
  • Small jars or envelopes: Great for gifting small portions to friends.
  • Cool, dark location: Store in a cupboard or pantry away from heat, light, and moisture.
    How to Rehydrate Your Sourdough Starter
    When you’re ready to bake again, it’s easy to bring your dried sourdough starter back to life. In just a few days, it’ll be bubbly and ready for bread.

    ON DAY 1: THE BEGINNING

    • Measure out 2 teaspoons (10 grams) of dried starter.
    • Add 2 tablespoons (29 grams) of warm filtered or distilled water.
    • Let sit for an hour to soften the flakes.
    • Stir in 2 tablespoons (16 grams) of flour, mix well, and cover loosely.
    • Let rest at room temperature for 24 hours.

    BY DAY 2: FIRST SIGNS OF LIFE

    • Look for tiny bubbles.
    • Feed again, 2 tablespoons (16 grams) of flour and 2 tablespoons (29 grams) of water.
    • Cover and rest for 24 hours.

    DAY 3: FERMENTATION

    • Your starter should smell pleasantly yeasty and have more bubbles.
    • Feed again, 2 tablespoons (16 grams) of flour and 2 tablespoons (29 grams) of water, letting it rest for another 24 hours.

      DAY 4: KEEP FEEDING

      • It should now be rising and showing more activity.
      • Feed again, this time with 1/4 cup (31 grams) of flour and 1/4 cup (59 grams) of water, then rest for 24 hours.

      BY DAY 5: YOUR STARTER IS RISING

      • You may need to pour your starter into a larger jar at this point and feed 1/2 cup (63 grams) of flour and 1/2 cup (119 grams) of water.
      • Cover and let rest for 24 hours.

      DAY 6: YOUR STARTER IS READY!

      • Once your starter is doubling in size, it is ready to use any sourdough recipe, including bread.
      • Read my post on how to make a sourdough starter below to learn how to maintain your starter.