The Fluffiest Sourdough Discard Pancakes (with Chocolate Chips!)

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with extra sourdough discard, let me introduce you to the fluffiest, most delicious pancakes you’ll ever make. These sourdough discard pancakes are light, golden, and have just the right amount of tangy richness.
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And because I believe that chocolate chips make everything better, I threw some in—best decision ever!

From Discard to Dreamy Pancakes

I’ve been on a mission to waste less in the kitchen, and that includes putting my sourdough discard to good use. Instead of tossing it, I’ve started transforming it into recipes my whole family loves. And today, it made its way into what I can confidently say are the fluffiest pancakes I’ve ever made.

Adding chocolate chips took them to another level. Every bite had melty sweetness balanced by the subtle tang of sourdough. And the best part? These were made with ingredients I already had on hand. Simple, satisfying, and scratch-crafted.

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Why Sourdough Discard Makes These Pancakes So Good!

​Sourdough discard isn’t just a byproduct of maintaining your starter—it’s a secret weapon for adding depth of flavor to your favorite baked goods. In these pancakes, it brings:
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✔️ A subtle tang that balances the sweetness
✔️ Extra fluffiness thanks to its fermentation properties
✔️ A tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture
And when you combine that with melty chocolate chips? Pure magic.

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Tools You’ll Need!

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need to make the best sourdough pancakes: 
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• Mixing Bowls – One for wet and one for dry ingredients.
• Whisk & Spatula – For smooth batter and gentle folding.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Precision matters for perfect fluff!
• Non-Stick Pan or Griddle – Even cooking is key.
• Ladle or ¼ Cup Measure – For consistently sized pancakes.
• Butter or Oil for Cooking – Because crispy edges are everything.

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Why I Love This Recipe

✔️ Zero waste – Uses up that discard you might otherwise toss
✔️ Kid-approved – Chocolate chips make everything more fun
✔️ Fluffy, not flat – Thanks to that sourdough lift and a little resting time

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Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Pancakes Recipe

Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Rest Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
​Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240g) sourdough discard
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (180ml) milk (or buttermilk)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter (or oil)
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (90g) chocolate chips

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Instructions:

1. Mix the wet ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, milk, egg, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Add the dry ingredients – Sprinkle in the baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the flour and gently mix. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are fine.
3. Let the batter rest – Let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This gives the baking soda time to react with the sourdough discard, making your pancakes even fluffier.
4. Cook the pancakes – Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour ¼ cup of batter per pancake, sprinkle chocolate chips on top, and cook until bubbles form (about 2 minutes). Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve & enjoy – Stack them high and serve warm with butter, maple syrup, or even a dusting of powdered sugar!

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FAQ

Can I make these without chocolate chips?
Absolutely! They’re just as fluffy and delicious plain, or you can swap in blueberries, chopped bananas, or nuts.

Is it okay to use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes! Active starter will work just fine and may even give the pancakes a little extra rise.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Since it contains baking soda and powder, it’s best cooked right after mixing. But you can prep the dry and wet ingredients separately the night before and combine them in the morning.
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Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Swap butter for oil or a plant-based butter alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk.

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Real Moments from the Kitchen

📸 This photo says it all.
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These pancakes were golden, melty, and deeply satisfying. There’s something extra special about cooking from scratch and seeing the joy it brings to the table.

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The Verdict? Absolute Pancake Perfection.
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These pancakes are staying in our weekend breakfast rotation for sure. If you’re looking for a new way to use up your sourdough discard—this is it. And if your family is anything like mine, these will disappear faster than you can flip them.