By:

| Published on:

October 13, 2025

Sourdough discard pancakes are a delightful way to enjoy breakfast while making good use of your sourdough starter. If you’ve been baking bread using sourdough, you may find yourself with some leftover starter, known as sourdough discard. Instead of tossing it out, why not turn it into fluffy, delicious pancakes? These pancakes are easy to make and add a slight tang from the sourdough that makes them special. They are perfect for a quick breakfast or a cozy weekend brunch. Plus, they take just a few minutes to whip up, making it a simple and fun cooking experience for everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Discard Pancakes

You will love these sourdough discard pancakes because they are soft, fluffy, and packed with flavor. The tangy taste from the sourdough adds a unique twist to a traditional pancake recipe. These pancakes are perfect for both kids and adults. They are also versatile; you can add fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips to customize them to your liking. Best of all, making these pancakes helps you reduce food waste by using up excess sourdough starter. They’re a win-win for taste and sustainability!

How to Make Sourdough Discard Pancakes

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup sourdough starter or discard
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons melted butter or oil

Step-by-Step Directions

In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, milk, egg, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and melted butter or oil. Mix until just combined. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Pancakes

Serve the pancakes warm. You can top them with syrup, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even yogurt. They are great with berries, bananas, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or milk for a delightful breakfast.

How to Store Sourdough Discard Pancakes

If you have any leftover pancakes, let them cool to room temperature. Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the toaster or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Tips for the Best Sourdough Discard Pancakes

Make sure your sourdough starter is active for the best flavor.
Do not overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay.
Adjust the thickness by adding more milk if needed.
Use a non-stick skillet or griddle for easy cooking.

Recipe Variations

You can try adding chocolate chips, blueberries, or even nuts to the batter for extra flavor. Experiment with different toppings, like peanut butter or honey, to change things up!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use an active sourdough starter. Just remember that the pancakes may have a stronger sour flavor.

Can I freeze the pancakes?
Absolutely! Freeze the pancakes in a single layer, then store them in a freezer bag. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave when you’re ready.

What if I don’t have sourdough starter?
You can substitute sourdough starter with yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture, but the tang will be different. Adjust the dry ingredients if needed.