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The Ultimate Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes Recipe

Close-up view showing the fluffy, airy interior texture of a stack of sourdough pancakes drizzled with syrup.

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Create light, airy, and perfectly tangy sourdough pancakes using your unfed starter discard. This easy, one-bowl recipe delivers golden brown results perfect for a weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil, plus more for the griddle

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This is your dry mix.
  2. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, and milk until combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
  4. Stir in the melted butter or oil. If you have time, let the batter rest for 5 to 10 minutes. For an overnight option, cover the batter and refrigerate for up to 12 hours.
  5. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large non-stick skillet over medium heat. The pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles immediately.
  6. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
  7. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup and fresh fruit.

Notes

  • For extra fluffy sourdough pancakes, use active starter instead of discard and add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
  • If using refrigerated overnight batter, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking, or add a splash of milk if it seems too thick.
  • For a subtle tang, use unfed discard. For a stronger tang, use discard that has been sitting out for an hour before mixing.

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