Got sourdough discard and a craving for pancakes? These Sourdough Discard Pancakes are the perfect solution! With a delightful tangy flavor and a fluffy texture, these pancakes are a delicious way to use up your sourdough starter. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or just looking for a new breakfast twist, this recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible. Let’s get flipping!

Ingredients and Preparation Steps
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2-4 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Step 1: Mix the Batter

First, in a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, melted butter (or oil), sugar (or honey), and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Add Baking Soda

Next, sprinkle the baking soda over the batter and gently fold it in. The batter will bubble slightly—this is normal and helps create fluffy pancakes!
Step 3: Adjust Consistency

After, add milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until the batter reaches your desired consistency. Thicker batter makes fluffier pancakes, while thinner batter creates lighter ones.
Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Then, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the batter.
Step 5: Cook the Pancakes

Finally, pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.
The Best Time to Enjoy Your Sourdough Discard Pancakes
These Sourdough Discard Pancakes are perfect for a lazy weekend breakfast or a quick weekday treat. Their tangy flavor pairs beautifully with sweet toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of yogurt. For a savory twist, try them with a fried egg and a side of Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef.
If you’re hosting brunch, serve these pancakes alongside Fluffy Bisquick Pancakes or Classic Waffles for a crowd-pleasing spread. And don’t forget to pair them with a cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte for the ultimate cozy experience!
Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough Discard Pancakes
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can use active starter, but the flavor will be less tangy. Discard adds a unique depth of flavor that’s perfect for pancakes.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Give it a quick stir before cooking.
What can I substitute for baking soda?
If you don’t have baking soda, you can use 1 tsp of baking powder. However, the texture may be slightly different.
How do I store leftover pancakes?
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet for best results.

Quick Sourdough Discard Pancakes
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
3 minutes
Servings
10
Category
Breakfast recipes
Turn your sourdough discard into fluffy, golden pancakes! These easy-to-make pancakes are perfect for breakfast or brunch, with a delightful tangy flavor and a touch of sweetness. Plus, they’re a great way to use up your sourdough starter!
Ingredient
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
- 1 tbsp sugar or honey
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2-4 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- First, in a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, melted butter (or oil), sugar (or honey), and salt.
- Next, sprinkle the baking soda over the batter and gently fold it in. The batter will bubble slightly—this is normal!
- After, add milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until the batter reaches your desired consistency (thicker for fluffy pancakes, thinner for lighter ones).
- Then, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
- Finally, pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown on both sides.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 173
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 23g
- Protein: 5g
Pro Tips
For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. Serve with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt!
Pro Tips for Perfect Sourdough Discard Pancakes
Want to take your Sourdough Discard Pancakes to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure your pancakes turn out perfectly every time:
- Use Cold Ingredients: Cold sourdough discard and milk help create a fluffier texture. Avoid using room-temperature ingredients.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the pancakes dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, even if the batter looks lumpy.
- Let the Batter Rest: Allow the batter to rest for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This gives the baking soda time to activate and creates lighter pancakes.
- Adjust the Heat: Cook the pancakes over medium heat. If the skillet is too hot, the pancakes will brown too quickly without cooking through.
- Add Flavor Variations: Mix in blueberries, chocolate chips, or a pinch of cinnamon for a fun twist on the classic recipe.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Sourdough Discard Pancakes to keep them tasting fresh:
- Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a toaster or skillet for a crispy exterior, or microwave for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Freezing: Freeze pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or oven.
Perfect Pairings for Sourdough Discard Pancakes
Looking for the perfect dishes to serve alongside your Sourdough Discard Pancakes? Here are some delicious pairings to complete your meal:
- Fresh Fruit: Top your pancakes with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a fruit compote for a burst of sweetness.
- Maple Syrup and Butter: Classic toppings like maple syrup and butter enhance the tangy flavor of the pancakes.
- Yogurt and Honey: Add a dollop of yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a creamy, tangy-sweet combination.
- Savory Options: Pair with scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or Slow Cooker Broccoli Beef for a hearty breakfast.
- Beverages: Enjoy with a cup of Pumpkin Spice Latte or Golden Milk for a cozy treat.
We hope you enjoyed making and savoring these Sourdough Discard Pancakes as much as we did! These fluffy, tangy pancakes are proof that sourdough discard can be transformed into something truly delicious. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, tips, or variations in the comments below. Did you add blueberries, chocolate chips, or a pinch of cinnamon? Let us know how it turned out!
For more sourdough-inspired recipes, check out our Italian Bread or our Banana Pumpkin Bread. And if you’re in the mood for more breakfast ideas, don’t miss our Fluffy Bisquick Pancakes or Classic Waffles.
Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Tag us on social media using #SourdoughDiscardPancakes and let us know how it turned out. For more exclusive recipes and cooking tips, subscribe to our newsletter below. Happy cooking!
Emma,
The Recipe Team