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Fluffy Sourdough Discard Pancakes Recipe with Maple Brown Butter Topping

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These fluffy sourdough discard pancakes are tender and light, paired perfectly with a rich maple brown butter topping. A practical and delicious way to use leftover sourdough discard for a comforting breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sourdough discard
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted + extra for cooking
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup
  • Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and cinnamon if using.
  2. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the egg with milk, sourdough discard, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract if using until smooth and slightly thick.
  3. Fold wet into dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently just until combined. Batter will be lumpy. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  4. Heat the pan: Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush with melted butter to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook the pancakes: Pour about 1/4 cup batter per pancake onto the skillet. Cook 2-3 minutes until bubbles form and edges look set, then flip and cook 1-2 minutes until golden and cooked through. Keep warm.
  6. Make the maple brown butter topping: Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until foamy and golden brown (3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in pure maple syrup.
  7. Serve: Drizzle the warm maple brown butter over the pancakes and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Resting the batter for 5 minutes allows the baking soda to react with the sourdough discard for lighter pancakes. Use medium heat to avoid burning. For extra fluff, separate the egg and whip the white to soft peaks before folding in. Maple brown butter topping is essential for flavor—watch the butter closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

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