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If your sourdough starter seems to multiply faster than you can bake bread, these sourdough discard waffles are about to become your new favorite breakfast. They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and come together with simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

Whether you’re maintaining a mature sourdough starter or just looking for creative ways to reduce waste, this easy sourdough discard waffle recipe transforms leftover starter into a family-friendly breakfast everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Discard Waffles

Uses up extra sourdough discard
Crispy edges with a soft, fluffy center
Quick and easy to make
Freezer-friendly for meal prep
Morning memories will be made with this recipe

The sourdough discard adds incredible flavor and texture, you won’t ever need any other recipe!

What Is Sourdough Discard?

Sourdough discard is the portion of starter removed before feeding. While many people throw it away, discard is perfectly usable in recipes like waffles, pancakes, muffins, crackers, and cookies.

Using discard in recipes is a great way to reduce waste while adding flavor and nutrition to your baking.

Equipment

Ingredients

all purpose flour
baking powder
baking soda
salt
sugar or honey
sourdough discard
milk
eggs
olive or avocado oil
vanilla extract

plate of waffles with a Pinterest title over it

How to Make Sourdough Discard Waffles

Step 1: Preheat Your Waffle Iron

Heat your waffle maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla.

Step 4: Combine

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine (the picture below is made with fresh milled whole wheat flour, which is why it is darker batter).

a white ceramic bowl on a wooden table with sourdough discard waffle batter and a whisk

sourdough discard waffle batter poured into a waffle iron, on a countertop

Step 5: Cook the Waffles

Lightly grease your waffle iron if needed. Pour the batter onto the hot waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately with butter, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or your favorite toppings.

Tips for Extra Crispy Waffles

Let the waffle iron fully preheat before adding batter.
Avoid opening the waffle maker too early.
Place cooked waffles directly on a wire rack instead of stacking them.

Flour types

Waffles are flexible so this is a super easy recipe to sub different flours like whole wheat or fresh milled. We love to do fresh milled flour for our waffles. These give an extra richness and crispiness and tons of health benefits.

This is the grain mill we use and love!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Freeze Sourdough Discard Waffles?

Absolutely! Allow waffles to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

To reheat, pop them directly into the toaster or oven until warmed through and crispy again.

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes. Active starter works just as well in this recipe and may provide a slightly lighter and fluffier texture.

How long can sourdough discard be stored?

Discard can typically be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. If it develops mold, an unusual color, or a foul odor, it should be discarded. The longer it is stored, the more of a tang it will have. You will begin to learn what fits your palate the best when using it in your cooking.

Can I make these waffles ahead of time?

Yes. These waffles freeze beautifully and are perfect for busy mornings.

More Discard Recipes You Will Love:

Everyone’s Favorite Pancakes

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple way to use up extra starter, these sourdough discard waffles are hard to beat. They’re crispy, fluffy, freezer-friendly, and packed with delicious sourdough flavor. Make a double batch and enjoy homemade waffles all week long.

Have extra discard in your refrigerator? Try making a batch this weekend and discover why sourdough waffles have become a favorite in so many homestead kitchens.

stacked sourdough discard waffles on a plate with a square of butter in the middle with maple syrup

Emily Fuentes