Name: Homemade Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2/3 cup sourdough discard; 1 1/4 cup milk (use almond milk, soy milk, etc. for dairy-free waffles); 3 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 11 reviews

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with that extra sourdough discard sitting in your fridge, the answer is here with this delightful Homemade Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe. These waffles are fluffy, slightly tangy, and bursting with flavor—a perfect way to enjoy the goodness of sourdough without any waste. The combination of simple pantry staples with that unique sourdough tang creates a breakfast experience that feels both comforting and a little bit special. Trust me, once you try these, your weekend mornings will never be the same!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine small bowls and two eggs placed on a white marbled surface. The top left bowl holds white all-purpose flour with a fine, powdery texture. To the right, a clear glass bowl contains a dark brown liquid labeled vanilla extract. Below it, a white jug is filled with bright yellow melted butter. Next to it, two brown eggs sit side by side. Below the flour, a white bowl holds sourdough discard with a smooth, creamy texture and small bubbles. Near the bottom left, a speckled white jug contains milk with a light creamy color. Adjacent to it, a speckled white bowl is filled with amber-colored honey, shiny and clear. At the bottom center, a beige bowl contains white powder labeled baking powder and baking soda. To the right, a small brown bowl holds coarse white salt. All items are neatly arranged, with clear labels in black text above each ingredient. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s adding moisture, structure, or that perfect golden color and crispy texture. Here’s what you’ll need to bring your sourdough discard waffles to life.

Sourdough discard (2/3 cup): This adds a subtle tang and helps create a light, airy texture.
Milk (1 1/4 cups): Use dairy or any plant-based alternative like almond or soy for creamy batter consistency.
Butter, melted and cooled (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and aids in achieving crispy edges.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Natural sweetness that balances the sourdough’s tang.
Eggs (2): They bind everything together and contribute to fluffy waffles.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base that gives structure and absorbs moisture.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps waffles rise for extra fluffiness.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder and sourdough to perfect the texture.
Kosher salt (3/4 teaspoon): Balances flavors, ensuring every bite is delicious.

How to Make Homemade Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Start by pouring your sourdough discard into a large mixing bowl. Add the milk, melted butter, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract. Give it a good mix until everything is smoothly combined. This mixture forms the flavorful foundation of your waffle batter, ensuring every bite is rich and slightly tangy.

Step 2: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Next, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add this to your wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined — don’t overmix! The baking soda and powder will help these waffles rise beautifully, while the salt brings out all the flavors.

Step 3: Let the Batter Rest

Patience pays off deliciously here. Let your batter sit for about 10 minutes. This brief rest allows the sourdough to activate and the flours to hydrate properly, resulting in waffles that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray it lightly with non-stick spray. Pour about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of batter (depending on your waffle iron size) onto the center. Close the lid and cook until the waffles are gorgeously golden brown and crisp, usually around 4-5 minutes. Repeat with remaining batter.

How to Serve Homemade Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with smooth, thick, pale yellow batter that has a creamy and slightly lumpy texture. A metal whisk with a shiny silver handle is partially immersed in the batter, resting on the left side inside the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface that looks clean and bright. The batter covers the bottom and sides of the bowl evenly, showing a spiral mixing pattern from the whisk. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Waffles are the ultimate canvas for toppings, and these sourdough waffles shine with classics like fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your waffles with breakfast staples like crispy bacon, sausage links, or scrambled eggs to create a hearty morning spread. For a lighter option, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try stacking your waffles with layers of cream cheese and jam, or turn them into waffle sandwiches filled with nut butter and banana slices. These creative presentations will delight guests and family alike and show just how versatile this Homemade Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe can be.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have waffles left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping them sealed prevents drying out while preserving their delicious texture.

Freezing

To enjoy waffles anytime, freezing is your friend. Lay cooled waffles on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to two months without losing flavor.

Reheating

The secret to reheating your waffles is to bring back their crispness. Use a toaster or oven set to 350°F to warm frozen or refrigerated waffles until heated through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and denser texture to your waffles. You might want to add a bit more milk to keep the batter from getting too thick.

Do I have to use sourdough discard, or can I substitute it?

The unique tang of sourdough discard is what makes this recipe special, but you could try substituting with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar acidity, though the flavor won’t be quite the same.

How thick should the waffle batter be?

The batter should be somewhat thick but pourable—think of a consistency that slowly drips off a spoon. Too thick and the waffles may be dense; too thin and they won’t hold shape well in the iron.

Can I make these waffles gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum to mimic the binding properties of gluten. The texture might be a bit different but still delicious.

Can I prepare the batter the night before?

Yes, preparing the batter the night before and letting it ferment slowly in the fridge can deepen the sourdough flavor. Just bring it back to room temperature before cooking and give it a gentle stir.

Final Thoughts

Making these Homemade Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe is such a rewarding way to transform a simple discard into something truly irresistible. From the first crispy, tangy bite, you’ll see why these waffles have become a beloved favorite in my kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience the magic of sourdough in waffle form—happy cooking!

Homemade Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need