5 Best Sourdough Discard Breakfast Recipes 2025

If you’re into sourdough baking, you likely know that maintaining a sourdough starter can lead to a lot of discard. Rather than throwing away this flavorful byproduct, why not turn it into a delicious breakfast? Below, we’ve compiled several sourdough discard breakfast recipes that are simple to make and perfect for those lazy mornings. These recipes are a great way to minimize waste and add a unique twist to your favorite breakfast staples.

Why Use Sourdough Discard For Breakfast Recipes?

Sourdough discard has a mild tangy flavor that adds depth to recipes, without the need for extra leavening. Plus, it’s an easy way to reduce food waste and make for a more sustainable kitchen. Whether you’re making pancakes, muffins, or savory dishes, your sourdough discard can add a whole new dimension to your breakfasts.

How Many Sourdough Discard Breakfast Recipes Are We Sharing?

In this article, we’ll share 5simple and delicious sourdough discard breakfast recipes that are perfect for starting your day off right. From sweet to savory, these recipes will help you reduce food waste and get creative with your sourdough starter discard. Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes or a savory frittata, we’ve got you covered!

The sourdough discard breakfast recipes we’ll cover are:

• Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
• Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes
• Sourdough Discard Waffles
• Savory Sourdough Discard Breakfast Muffins
• Sourdough Discard Frittata

1. Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes

Pancakes are a breakfast staple, and when you add sourdough discard into the mix, they become even more special. Using sourdough discard not only cuts down on kitchen waste but also adds a subtle tang that makes these pancakes irresistibly fluffy and flavorful. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, these pancakes are the perfect way to use up extra sourdough starter and elevate your morning meal.

If you’re looking to make pancakes without sourdough discard, no need to worry! We’ve got the perfect recipe for you. Check it out here: Perfect Fluffy Pancakes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This dry mix will help give the pancakes their fluffiness.

Step 2:
In another bowl, mix the sourdough discard, egg, milk, and melted butter until everything is well combined. This wet mix adds moisture and a slightly tangy flavor from the sourdough discard.

Step 3 :

Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, gently stirring with a spatula. Mix just until everything is moistened and you no longer see dry flour. The batter will be slightly lumpy, but that’s perfect for light, airy pancakes.

Step 4 :

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat until it’s evenly warmed Lightly brush it with a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Allow the pan to get hot before adding the batter.

Step 5:
Scoop about ¼ cup of the batter onto the heated pan for each pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles start forming on the surface of the pancakes. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6:
Serve the pancakes warm, topped with your favorite ingredients like maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

2. Sourdough Discard Waffles

If you’re looking for a crisp and fluffy breakfast treat, these sourdough discard waffles are just the thing. Sourdough discard adds a delightful tang to waffles, giving them a rich, complex flavor while ensuring they have that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside texture. Whether you’re topping them with syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream, these waffles are a delicious way to start the day and a fantastic way to reduce waste by using up an extra sourdough starter.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. This dry mix is the base that will give the waffles their structure.

Step 2:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This wet mixture brings in moisture and flavor, especially the signature tang from the sourdough.

Step 3:
Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently stirring until everything is just blended. Make sure not to overmix, as this can make the waffles dense. The batter should be smooth but not completely lump-free.

Step 4:
Heat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 5:
Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron, using enough to fill the grates without overflowing. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions, usually for 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden and crisp.

Step 6:
Serve the waffles hot, topped with your favorite toppings like syrup, fruit, or whipped cream.

3. Savory Sourdough Discard Breakfast Muffins

These savory sourdough discard muffins are perfect for breakfast on the go or as a tasty addition to your brunch spread. Packed with flavors from sharp cheddar, beef sausage, and fresh herbs, they are a delicious way to use up leftover sourdough discard. The tanginess from the sourdough complements the savory ingredients, giving these muffins a depth of flavor that regular muffins just can’t match. Plus, they’re super easy to make and freeze well for later!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked and crumbled ham
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Step 2:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking them together thoroughly. This will be the dry base for your muffins.

Step 3:
In another bowl, mix the sourdough discard, egg, milk, and melted butter until well combined. This wet mixture will add moisture and the signature sourdough tang to your muffins.

Step 4:
Slowly combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it may result in dense, tough muffins.

Step 5:
Fold in the shredded cheese, beef sausage, and chopped chives. Distribute the mix evenly to ensure each muffin gets a good amount of filling.

Step 6:
Gently fill each cup of the prepared muffin tin with batter, leaving them about three-quarters full.

Step 7:
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the tops are golden or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8:
Let the muffins cool slightly before serving. These savory muffins are best enjoyed warm but can also be stored for later or frozen.

4. Sourdough Discard Frittata

A frittata is a versatile and satisfying breakfast dish, and adding sourdough discard to the mix makes it even more unique. This sourdough discard frittata brings together eggs, fresh vegetables, cheese, and optional meats, with the sourdough discard adding a subtle tang and extra texture. It’s an ideal breakfast for feeding a crowd or as a make-ahead dish for busy mornings.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup milk or cream
• 1 cup diced vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
• ½ cup cooked chicken or turkey (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet.

Step 2:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sourdough discard, and milk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3:
Add the diced vegetables, cooked chicken or turkey (if using), and shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then stir gently to mix everything.

Step 4:

Gently pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Step 5:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.

Step 6:
Allow the frittata to cool for a few minutes before cutting and serving.

5. Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a sweet way to use up sourdough discard, these cinnamon rolls are a perfect treat. The sourdough discard adds a slight tang to balance the sweetness of the cinnamon-sugar filling, creating a soft, fluffy roll that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. These cinnamon rolls are a crowd-pleaser and can easily be made ahead for busy mornings or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup milk
• ¼ cup melted butter (plus extra for brushing)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup brown sugar (for the filling)

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a baking dish with oil or butter.

Step 2:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking them together to create the dry base for the dough.

Step 3:
In another bowl, combine the sourdough discard, milk, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4:
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough begins to form. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 5:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.

Step 6:
Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar evenly over the surface.

Step 7:
Gently roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the long edges. After rolling, slice it into even pieces, about 1½ inches thick.

Step 8:
Place the sliced rolls into the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

Step 9:
Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

Step 10:
Let the cinnamon rolls cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with icing or enjoy as is!

FAQs for Sourdough Discard and Breakfast

1. Is eating sourdough discard healthy?

Yes, eating sourdough discard can be healthy when incorporated into recipes. It retains some of the beneficial probiotics from the fermentation process, which can aid digestion. However, it’s important to cook the discard, as raw discard can have an unappealing flavor and might upset the stomach in large amounts.

2. Is sourdough good for breakfast?

Absolutely! Sourdough is an excellent choice for breakfast because it’s rich in nutrients, easier to digest than regular bread due to fermentation, and has a lower glycemic index. Its tangy flavor pairs well with both sweet and savory breakfast toppings, making it versatile and satisfying.

3. What to put on sourdough bread for breakfast?

Here are some delicious topping ideas for sourdough bread:

• Sweet options: Honey, nut butter, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Savory options: Avocado, poached eggs, smoked salmon, or sautéed greens with hummus.
• Creative combinations: Try spreads like ricotta with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cream cheese with fresh herbs.

4. What do I do with my sourdough discard?

Sourdough discard can be used in a variety of recipes, including pancakes, waffles, muffins, crackers, or flatbreads. You can also add it to pizza dough or use it to make flavorful crackers or cookies.

Conclusion

Sourdough discard is a versatile ingredient that can be transformed into a variety of delicious breakfast dishes. From fluffy pancakes and crispy waffles to savory muffins and frittatas, each recipe brings a unique twist to the table. By using sourdough discard, not only do you reduce waste, but you also add depth of flavor to these classic breakfast staples. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, these recipes offer a creative and tasty way to start your day.

Enjoy exploring these sourdough discard breakfast ideas, and happy cooking!