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The Ultimate Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes Recipe

A tall stack of fluffy sourdough pancakes, cut open to show the airy interior, drizzled with syrup and dusted with powdered sugar.

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Make wonderfully fluffy and tangy sourdough pancakes using your unfed starter discard. This easy recipe delivers light, tender results perfect for a weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, plus more for the griddle

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This is your dry mix.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, egg, and milk until combined.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Whisk gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
  4. Gently fold in the 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
  5. Heat a lightly oiled griddle or 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.
  7. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You know the first side is ready to flip when bubbles appear on the surface and the edges look set.
  8. Flip and cook the second side until golden brown and cooked through, about 1 to 2 minutes more.
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For extra fluffy sourdough pancakes, let the batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, use discard that has been sitting on the counter for an hour before mixing.
  • For an overnight option, mix all ingredients except the melted butter and baking powder/soda. Cover and refrigerate. In the morning, whisk in the baking powder/soda and melted butter before cooking.
  • Use whole milk for the richest flavor and texture in your stack of pancakes.

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