Fluffy and Easy Sourdough discard Pancakes Recipe (no overnight)
If you’re looking for a quick way to use up extra sourdough discard, these fluffy sourdough discard pancakes are a family favorite — and they don’t require an overnight ferment.
This easy pancake recipe comes together in minutes and works beautifully with all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, or fresh-milled flour, making it a great option whether you’re just starting with sourdough or already milling your own grain at home.
These pancakes are soft, fluffy, and kid-approved — perfect for busy mornings, weekend breakfasts, or when your sourdough jar is overflowing.
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Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Discard Pancakes
No overnight fermentation required
A great way to use up extra sourdough discard
Easy to adapt for whole wheat or fresh-milled flour
Soft, fluffy texture kids love
Simple ingredients you likely already have
What is Sourdough Discard?
Sourdough discard is the portion of starter removed before feeding. While it isn’t active enough to rise bread on its own, it adds incredible flavor and moisture to recipes like pancakes, waffles, muffins, and quick breads.
Using discard in pancakes is one of the easiest and most forgiving ways to avoid waste — especially if you’re new to sourdough.
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Flour Options (Use What You Have)
This recipe is designed to be flexible. Below are simple adjustments depending on the flour you choose.
All-Purpose Flour
This version produces classic, fluffy pancakes with the mildest sourdough flavor. No adjustments needed.
Whole Wheat Flour
Whole wheat flour creates a heartier pancake with more fiber and flavor.
Adjustment:
• Add 2–4 tablespoons additional milk if the batter feels thick.
Fresh-Milled Flour
Fresh-milled flour absorbs more liquid and benefits from a short rest.
Adjustments:
• Add 2–4 tablespoons additional milk, as needed
• Let batter rest 5–10 minutes before cooking
If you’re new to fresh-milled flour, this recipe is a great place to start — the batter is forgiving and easy to adjust.
Nutrition note: Nutrition information is calculated using whole wheat flour as an estimate for fresh-milled flour.
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Tips for Fluffy Pancakes
Don’t overmix the batter — a few lumps are okay
Let the batter rest briefly before cooking
Cook on medium heat, not high
Flip once bubbles form and edges look set
If pancakes are spreading too much, add a tablespoon of flour.
If they’re too thick, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time.
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Steps:
- Whisk the Wet Ingredients
- Mix in the dry ingredients
3. Pour onto a preheated pan and cook until bubbles form and the edges are set. The bottom should be golden brown.
4. Flip the pancake over and cook until cooked through.
Full instructions on the recipe card below.
Sourdough Discard Pancake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, sugar or honey, milk, egg, butter or oil, vanilla.
- Add in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. whisk until combined
- Heat skillet to medium heat and put some olive oil into the skillet to prevent sticking. (cast iron will need a lower setting)
- Pour batter in desired size on skillet for each pancake.
- When bubbles form, flip pancake. It should be golden brown. Adjust temperature as needed to get a golden brown outside and a cooked inside.
- If you are using a cast iron pan, a metal spatula helps to flip the pancake easier.
- Enjoy with your favorite toppings!
- Store any extra in the freezer in a gallon size bag. Reheat in a toaster or toaster oven.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze cooked pancakes in a single layer, then store up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm in a skillet or toaster for best texture
These are perfect for batch cooking and quick weekday breakfasts.
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Common Questions
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes — use a non-dairy milk and oil instead of butter.
Can I ferment the batter overnight?
I recommend making these ones the same day for the best flavor and texture!
Can I use einkorn or spelt?
Yes, but expect a softer texture and slightly different hydration needs. Pancakes are an easy recipe to switch out different flours!
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More Sourdough Recipes You’ll Love
Sourdough Discard Banana Bread
Sourdough Discard Sandwich Bread
How To Use Your Sourdough Starter
How To Make A Sourdough Starter
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⭐ Tried This Recipe?
If you make these sourdough discard pancakes, I’d love to hear how they turned out!
Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below or share your favorite topping in the comments.
