These Sourdough Discard Waffles are a fun way to use up leftover sourdough starter! Crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they make breakfast feel special.
Making waffles with sourdough discard is like giving old bread a delicious new life! I love topping mine with fresh fruit or a drizzle of syrup. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the recipe! Using unfed discard adds a lovely tang. If you don’t have sourdough, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar flavor and texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here, but if you want a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour. Just note that the texture might be a bit denser.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk gives the waffles a nice tang and helps them rise. You can easily make a substitute mixing 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for a controlled salt level. If you like, you can switch to coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor or vegan diet.
Fresh Fruits: I love topping my waffles with strawberries and blueberries, but don’t hesitate to use bananas, cherries, or any seasonal fruits you have on hand!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Waffles?
Achieving a perfect crispy texture is key for your waffles. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your waffle iron properly. A hot iron is essential for crispness!
- Don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are okay; overmixing adds extra air and reduces crispiness.
- Don’t be stingy with the batter! Use enough to fill the waffle iron without spilling, but don’t overload it.
- Cook until golden brown and crispy. Trust your eye; the cooking time can vary by waffle iron.
- Let the waffles sit for a minute after cooking to allow the steam to escape, keeping them crispy.
How to Make Sourdough Discard Waffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cooking spray or oil for waffle iron
- Fresh strawberries and blueberries, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus around 4-5 minutes for each batch of waffles to cook. So, depending on how many waffles you make, expect a total of about 30-40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy breakfast at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures the waffles cook evenly and get that delightful crispy texture!
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is mixed well to avoid any clumps.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mix will add richness and flavor to your waffles.
4. Combine Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold them together with a spatula or spoon until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps—this will keep the waffles fluffy!
5. Grease the Waffle Iron:
Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or a bit of oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
6. Cook the Waffles:
Scoop a portion of the batter onto the preheated waffle iron (the amount will depend on the size of your iron). Close the lid and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, about 4-5 minutes or as recommended by your waffle iron.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the waffle and place it on a plate. Continue making waffles with the remaining batter. Serve them warm, topped with fresh sliced strawberries, blueberries, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy your delightful sourdough discard waffles!
Can I Use Any Type of Sourdough Starter for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use any unfed sourdough starter discard you have on hand. Just make sure it’s at least a few days old for the best flavor and texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Waffles?
Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or warm them in the oven for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze Sourdough Discard Waffles?
Absolutely! Allow the waffles to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the toaster or oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using for the best consistency!
