Sourdough Discard Waffles (Crispy Outside, Fluffy Inside)

There’s something deeply comforting about a slow morning and a warm stack of waffles on the table. These sourdough discard waffles are one of my favorite ways to use up extra starter while creating a breakfast that feels special but still simple.

They’re crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and have just a hint of tang from the sourdough — nothing overpowering. Whether you’re making them for a weekend breakfast, brunch with family, or even breakfast-for-dinner, these waffles are easy, cozy, and reliable.

Why You’ll Love These Waffles

• A perfect way to use sourdough discard

• Crispy edges with a fluffy interior

• Not overly sour — just balanced and cozy

• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

• Works with classic or Belgian waffle makers

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup sourdough discard

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)

• 2 eggs

• 3 tablespoons melted butter (or oil)

• 1 tablespoon sugar or honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

How to Make Sourdough Discard Waffles

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, milk, eggs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

3. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gently stir just until combined — don’t overmix.

4. Lightly grease the waffle iron and scoop the batter onto the hot surface.

5. Cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. Cooking time will vary depending on your waffle maker.

6. Carefully remove and repeat with remaining batter.

Tips for Extra Crispy Waffles

• Let the waffle iron fully preheat before adding batter

• Avoid opening the lid too early — steam needs time to escape

• Place finished waffles directly on a wire rack instead of stacking

• For extra crispness, you can keep cooked waffles warm in a 200°F oven

Make Them Your Own

These waffles are easy to customize depending on what you’re craving:

• Add cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth

• Fold in chocolate chips or blueberries

• Swap milk for buttermilk for richer flavor

• Add lemon zest for a bright spring twist

Make Ahead & Storage

These waffles freeze beautifully.

• Let waffles cool completely

• Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag

• Reheat in a toaster or oven for best texture

They’re perfect for busy mornings when you want something homemade without extra effort.

Helpful Baking Tools

If you’re building out your baking essentials, I keep a simple list of the tools I use most for recipes like this — mixing bowls, measuring cups, waffle makers, and more — all in one place.

👉 You can find my full baking essentials list here.

(This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Final Thoughts

Sourdough discard doesn’t have to feel like a chore — it can be the start of something cozy and delicious. These waffles are proof that simple ingredients and slow mornings go hand in hand.

Serve them with butter and warm syrup, fresh fruit, or whatever feels comforting to you. However you enjoy them, I hope they bring a little calm and warmth to your day.

Thanks for being here 🤍

This space is all about cozy living, simple rhythms, and real life — imperfect homes, slower days, and finding calm in the everyday. I’m so glad you stopped by, and I hope you’ll come back whenever you need a quiet pause.

— BAM