Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
What to Do with the First Sourdough Starter Discard

Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes


  • Author: Alyssa
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Put your sourdough starter discard to delicious use with these fluffy, tangy pancakes. They’re a perfect way to reduce waste and elevate your breakfast game with complex flavor and soft texture.


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)

1 large egg

2 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for the skillet)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)


Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  • In a separate bowl, combine the sourdough discard, buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla (if using).

  • Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.

  • Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to allow it to hydrate and thicken.

  • Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.

  • Pour 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to set, about 2–3 minutes.

  • Flip and cook the other side until golden brown, another 1–2 minutes.

  • Serve warm with maple syrup, fruit, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

You can substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier taste.
Add mix-ins like blueberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for variety.
Leftover pancakes freeze well—just reheat in a toaster or oven.

 

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 pancakes
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: easy sourdough discard pancake recipe, breakfast, no waste, fluffy pancakes, starter discard