Name: Sourdough Waffles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487938H34M12S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough starter (fed or unfed); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Sourdough Waffles are a unique, delicious twist on traditional waffles, using sourdough starter for a light, airy texture with a slight tang. These waffles are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and perfect for breakfast or brunch. They offer a lovely balance of flavors thanks to the tangy sourdough starter and a touch of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sourdough waffles bring all the best elements of classic waffles but with added depth from the sourdough. The slightly tangy flavor pairs beautifully with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. Plus, they’re easy to make and a great way to use up extra sourdough starter, reducing waste and making your breakfast extra special. These waffles are the perfect weekend treat or an indulgent breakfast any day of the week.

Sourdough Waffles

Ingredients

1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly, fed)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter (or vegetable oil)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh fruit, powdered sugar, whipped cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, milk, eggs, melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently fold until just combined. You don’t want to overmix, so be careful to stir until everything is incorporated, but still a bit lumpy.
Preheat the Waffle Iron: Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If necessary, lightly grease the plates with cooking spray or a little melted butter.
Cook the Waffles: Pour the batter into the preheated waffle iron, using a ladle or measuring cup. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions (usually 3-5 minutes) until golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Remove the waffles from the waffle iron and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4-6 waffles, depending on the size of your waffle iron. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cook time is 15-20 minutes.

Variations

Fruit Add-ins: Add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chocolate chips to the batter for added flavor and texture.
Spices: For a cozy twist, add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for warm, spicy notes.
Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flax meal + 3 tablespoons water for each egg), and use a plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
Whole Wheat Version: Swap out half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious waffle.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover waffles in an airtight container or bag in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: These waffles freeze beautifully. Allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat waffles in the toaster or oven for a few minutes until crispy. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a sourdough starter?

Yes, you can substitute the sourdough starter with 1 cup of regular milk and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar for a tangy flavor, though it won’t have the same depth of flavor as sourdough.

Do I need to let the batter rest?

While letting the batter rest for 10-15 minutes can help improve the texture, it’s not absolutely necessary. The waffles will still turn out great if you cook them immediately.

Can I make these waffles gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for gluten-free waffles. Ensure that your sourdough starter is also gluten-free.

How can I make these waffles fluffier?

To make the waffles extra fluffy, ensure that your sourdough starter is very active and bubbly. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter, as overmixing can result in denser waffles.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the batter the night before and store it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready, cook the waffles fresh for breakfast!

Conclusion

Sourdough Waffles are a delicious and slightly tangy twist on the classic waffle, adding a depth of flavor that makes breakfast feel a little more special. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect with your favorite toppings, these waffles will quickly become a go-to for lazy weekends or when you want to impress guests with a unique breakfast treat. Whether you’re using up extra sourdough starter or just looking for a new waffle recipe, these sourdough waffles are sure to be a hit!