Sourdough Discard Waffles are light, crispy, and oh-so-fluffy! They make great use of leftover sourdough starter, turning it into a tasty breakfast treat.
Who knew leftover starter could taste this good? I love to top mine with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup—it’s a morning win every time! 🍓🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the recipe! It gives waffles a unique flavor and light tang. If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can use a basic pancake batter as an alternative, though you’ll miss that special taste.
Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly here, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free baking mix designed for pancakes or waffles.
Milk: I usually go for regular milk, but buttermilk is fantastic for a richer taste and slightly tangy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, any non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can also work well.
Toppings: While fresh mixed berries and banana slices are delicious, you can also use chopped apples, peaches, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist!
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture with My Waffle Batter?
The key to great waffles is to mix the batter gently. Overmixing can lead to tough waffles. Here’s how I like to do it:
- In your dry bowl, stir together the dry ingredients until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until you see no dry flour—lumps are okay!
This method keeps the waffles light and fluffy. Don’t forget to preheat your waffle iron well for that crispy texture. Happy cooking!
How to Make Sourdough Discard Waffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Waffle Batter:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk (or buttermilk for tangier flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For Toppings:
- Fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries)
- Banana slices
- Maple syrup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 4-5 minutes to cook each batch in the waffle iron. You can have your tasty sourdough waffles ready to serve in about 20-25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
First things first! Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is crucial for getting those waffles nice and crispy!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your sourdough discard, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a whisk to blend everything together until it’s all evenly mixed. This will ensure your waffles have a great texture!
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk (or buttermilk), egg, melted butter (or oil), and vanilla extract if you’re using it. Mix this well to get a smooth consistency.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—it’s okay if the batter is a little lumpy! Avoid overmixing, or your waffles won’t be as fluffy.
5. Grease the Waffle Iron:
Lightly grease the preheated waffle iron with cooking spray or a bit of melted butter. This will help prevent sticking and make for easy waffle removal.
6. Cook the Waffles:
Pour enough batter onto the waffle iron to cover the surface, but be careful not to overfill it. Cook the waffles for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp. The cooking time may vary depending on your waffle iron.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the waffles and set them on a plate. Top with fresh mixed berries and banana slices, then drizzle generously with warm maple syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful tang of your sourdough discard waffles!
Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?
Yes! While all-purpose flour is ideal for these waffles, you can substitute with whole wheat flour for added nutrition or a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Just be aware that different flours may alter the texture slightly.
Can I Make the Batter in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just give it a gentle stir before using, as it may thicken or settle in the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Waffles?
Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Place parchment paper between waffles and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.
What Are Some Other Topping Ideas?
In addition to mixed berries and banana slices, consider toppings like whipped cream, nut butter, or even yogurt. You can also add chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor!
