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Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes: An Easy, No-Waste Breakfast

A tall stack of fluffy discard pancakes, with a piece cut out, drizzled generously with maple syrup.

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Make light, fluffy sourdough discard pancakes using your unfed starter. This easy recipe delivers a perfect tangy flavor for your weekend brunch and helps you reduce food waste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil, plus more for the griddle

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture forms the dry base for your light and fluffy pancakes.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter discard, egg, and milk until just combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix them together until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine and help create a fluffy texture.
  4. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes. This allows the leavening agents to activate.
  5. Heat a griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or oil.
  6. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
  7. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings for a delicious, zero waste sourdough breakfast.

Notes

  • For extra tang, use cold discard straight from the refrigerator.
  • To achieve the fluffiest pancakes, avoid stirring the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined.
  • You can substitute whole-wheat flour for up to half of the all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for later use.

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