Sourdough Discard Pancakes turn leftover starter into soft, fluffy pancakes with a light tang and golden edges. This easy recipe uses pantry staples and comes together fast, making it perfect for cozy breakfasts or weekend brunch. The sourdough discard adds flavor without extra effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses sourdough discard you already have
- Fluffy texture with subtle tang
- Quick, simple, and beginner-friendly
- Works for sweet or savory toppings
- Freezer-friendly for easy breakfasts
Ingredients

Pancake Batter
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cooking
- Butter or oil for the skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk sourdough discard, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease.
- Pour ¼ cup batter per pancake onto the hot surface.
- Cook until bubbles form and edges look set, about 2–3 minutes.
- Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Tips & Variations
- Rest batter 5 minutes for thicker pancakes
- Add blueberries or chocolate chips
- Swap sugar for honey or maple syrup
- Make savory pancakes by skipping vanilla and sugar
- Keep cooked pancakes warm in a low oven
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Freeze pancakes in a single layer, then transfer to a bag
- Reheat in toaster or microwave
- Separate with parchment to prevent sticking
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- Serve with maple syrup and butter
- Top with fresh fruit or yogurt
- Pair with coffee or hot tea
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sourdough discard?
Sourdough discard is the portion of starter removed before feeding. It still contains flavor and works perfectly in pancakes.
Do these pancakes taste sour?
They have a mild tang, not a strong sour flavor. The balance stays light and pleasant.
Can I make the batter ahead?
You can mix the batter and refrigerate it overnight. Stir gently before cooking.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
Ready to Make It?
Sourdough Discard Pancakes are an easy, satisfying way to use what you already have. This recipe delivers fluffy texture and great flavor with minimal effort. Save it now and enjoy a better breakfast anytime.
You Might Also Like
- Maple Shortbread Cookies – Perfect with coffee.
- Homemade Pistachio Butter – Great on pancakes.
- Maple Syrup Pie – Deep maple flavor.
- Classic Whoopie Pies – Nostalgic favorite.
Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 pancakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sourdough Discard Pancakes are fluffy, lightly tangy pancakes made with sourdough starter discard.
Ingredients
1 cup sourdough discard
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup milk
1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl
2. Whisk sourdough discard, milk, egg, butter, and vanilla
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients gently
4. Heat greased skillet
5. Pour batter onto skillet
6. Cook until bubbles form and flip
7. Cook until golden and serve
Notes
Do not overmix batter.
Rest batter briefly for thicker pancakes.
Freeze leftovers for quick breakfasts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pancake
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg