Sourdough Pancake Recipe

These fluffy sourdough pancakes are the perfect way to use sourdough discard! Light, tangy, and incredibly soft, they pair beautifully with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or savory toppings for a versatile, zero-waste breakfast treat.

There’s something magical about pancakes, especially when they’re made with sourdough. These fluffy sourdough pancakes bring together the slight tang of sourdough with the comforting, pillowy softness that makes every bite unforgettable. Perfect for lazy weekends or a midweek treat, this recipe creates pancakes that are light, airy, and brimming with flavor. Whether you're a sourdough enthusiast or just love a good pancake, this dish delivers that perfect balance of taste and texture every single time.

Sourdough pancakes are a great way to use up starter discard, giving it a second life in the most delicious way. These pancakes are not just ordinary; they’re layered with subtle sourdough flavors that elevate them beyond your usual breakfast stack. Plus, they pair beautifully with everything from fresh berries to a drizzle of honey, making them endlessly versatile.

What Are Sourdough Pancakes?

Sourdough pancakes are pancakes made with sourdough starter, which is a mixture of flour and water fermented with natural yeast and bacteria. The result? A tangy, flavorful base that gives pancakes an extra depth of flavor.

Unlike traditional pancakes, sourdough pancakes have a hint of complexity in their taste, thanks to the fermentation process. This particular variation is perfect for those who appreciate a slightly tangy twist to their breakfast. Plus, the natural leavening from the sourdough makes them incredibly fluffy.

Why this variation stands out: These pancakes are easy to make and don’t require much planning. You can use sourdough discard directly from your starter, making this an efficient, zero-waste recipe.

If you’re a fan of unique breakfast recipes, you might also want to check out this Frittata Recipe Using Turnips and Potatoes. It’s another creative way to brighten up your mornings with fresh, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1. Sourdough Starter (1 cup)

Whether it’s fed or discard, sourdough starter adds that signature tangy flavor. Discard works perfectly here, so save your active starter for your next loaf of bread.

2. Whole Milk (1 cup)

Whole milk ensures richness in the batter. You can use buttermilk for added tang or even plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.

3. Egg (1 large)

Eggs bind the batter and add structure. Room-temperature eggs blend more smoothly into the batter.

4. Sugar or Honey (2 tablespoons)

A touch of sweetness balances the sourdough tang. Honey adds a floral note, while sugar keeps it simple.

5. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)

Vanilla enhances the overall flavor. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.

6. All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)

Flour provides the structure. You can mix in a bit of whole wheat flour for added texture and nuttiness.

7. Baking Soda (1 teaspoon)

This reacts with the acidic sourdough starter to create extra lift. The result? Pancakes that are delightfully fluffy.

8. Salt (½ teaspoon)

Salt balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.

9. Butter or Oil for Cooking

Butter adds a golden, crispy exterior, while oil keeps it light. Choose what works best for you.

If you love experimenting with unique ingredients, try pairing these pancakes with Apricot Jam with Bachan's BBQ Twist for a sweet-and-savory combo.

Why You’ll Love These Pancakes

• No waste: This recipe uses sourdough discard, making it a great option for bakers who hate throwing away starter.
• Versatile: Top these pancakes with maple syrup, fresh fruits, or even savory toppings like bacon and eggs.
• Perfect texture: The combination of baking soda and sourdough creates pancakes that are incredibly light and fluffy.

For another breakfast treat that’s equally versatile, check out this Easy Red Velvet Funnel Cake Recipe.

Fluffy Sourdough Pancakes Recipe

This easy sourdough pancake recipe creates the fluffiest, tangiest pancakes, perfect for using up sourdough starter discard. A breakfast classic with a delicious twist!

Ingredients

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed or discard)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons sugar or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, milk, egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Gently fold in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly bubbly.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
4. Scoop ¼ cup of batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form and the edges look set.
5. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings such as butter, maple syrup, or fresh fruit.

10 minutes prep time with 15 minutes cook time.

Serves 4 and contains approximately 210 calories per serving.

American, Breakfast / Breakfast, Pancakes

Rated 4.8 by 159 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: sourdough pancake recipe, fluffy sourdough pancakes, breakfast recipes, sourdough discard pancakes, easy pancakes recipe

Published by: Show Recipe