Fluffy Sourdough Pancake Recipe You’ll Fall In Love With

Who doesn’t love waking up to a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes? If you’re a fan of light and airy breakfasts with a hint of tangy goodness, this Fluffy Sourdough Pancake Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Made with a sourdough starter, these pancakes have a perfectly golden-brown exterior, a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and just the right amount of natural leavening for that irresistible fluffiness.

Whether you’re looking for a delicious way to use up sourdough discard or simply want to elevate your breakfast game, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients—ideal for busy mornings or a cozy weekend brunch. So, grab your skillet, and let’s whip up a batch of these golden beauties!

Why You’ll Love These Fluffy Sourdough Pancakes

If you’ve ever craved light, airy, and golden-brown pancakes with a slightly tangy twist, this recipe is for you! Made with a sourdough starter, these pancakes offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture, making them a fantastic breakfast or brunch treat. Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up sourdough discard, reducing waste while creating something absolutely delicious.

Key Benefits of Sourdough Pancakes

✅ Incredibly Fluffy & Soft – The natural fermentation process gives these pancakes a unique, airy texture.
✅ Easy to Make – No complicated steps! Just mix, cook, and enjoy.
✅ Great Use for Sourdough Discard – Instead of throwing it away, turn it into something delicious.
✅ Naturally Fermented for Better Digestion – Sourdough is easier on the stomach compared to regular pancakes.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe for dairy-free or gluten-free options.

What Makes These Pancakes Special?

Unlike traditional pancakes, this recipe uses a sourdough starter or discard, which gives a slightly tangy depth of flavor while keeping the pancakes soft and tender. The natural fermentation also helps break down gluten, making these pancakes easier to digest. Plus, they develop a beautifully crispy edge and fluffy center, making each bite absolutely irresistible!

Whether you’re a sourdough pro or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. Now, let’s dive into what you’ll need to get started!

Ingredients for Fluffy Sourdough Pancakes

Gather your ingredients, and let’s make the fluffiest sourdough pancakes ever! Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect texture and flavor, so be sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Wet Ingredients 💦

🥣 1 cup (240g) sourdough starter (active or discard) – Adds a slight tang and helps with natural leavening.
🥛 ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or milk of choice) – Enhances the fluffiness and gives a rich taste.
🥚 1 large egg – Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients.
🍯 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness without overpowering the tangy flavor.
🥄 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
🧈 2 tbsp melted butter or oil – Keeps the pancakes moist and prevents them from sticking to the pan.

Dry Ingredients 🌾

🌾 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a heartier texture) – The base for the batter, ensuring structure.
🥄 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the pancakes rise and stay fluffy.
🥄 ½ tsp baking soda – Reacts with the sourdough starter for extra lightness.
🧂 ¼ tsp salt – Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.

Optional Add-ins ✨

🍌 Mashed banana for a naturally sweet twist.
🍫 Chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
🫐 Fresh berries for a fruity burst of flavor.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process to make these golden, fluffy pancakes!

How to Make Fluffy Sourdough Pancakes

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create the fluffiest, golden-brown sourdough pancakes. These simple steps will ensure your pancakes turn out light, airy, and packed with flavor every time!

1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, buttermilk, egg, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and melted butter.
Mix until smooth and well combined—this ensures a uniform batter with no lumps.

2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gently whisk to evenly distribute the leavening agents for an even rise.

3: Create the Perfect Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or whisk.
Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and airy. A few small lumps are okay!

4: Let the Batter Rest (Optional but Recommended)

Allowing the batter to rest for 5–10 minutes helps it thicken and activates the natural fermentation from the sourdough starter, leading to extra fluffy pancakes.

5: Heat the Griddle & Cook

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake, leaving space between them.
Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to set (about 2–3 minutes).
Flip gently and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden brown.

6: Serve & Enjoy!

Stack your pancakes high and top with your favorite add-ons—fresh berries, maple syrup, nut butter, or a sprinkle of cinnamon!
Serve warm and enjoy the fluffy, slightly tangy goodness of homemade sourdough pancakes.

Now that you’ve mastered the technique, let’s explore some pro tips and delicious variations to make this recipe even better!

Pro Tips & Delicious Variations

Want to take your sourdough pancakes to the next level? These expert tips and creative variations will help you achieve fluffier texture, better flavor, and exciting twists to suit your taste!

Pro Tips for the Best Sourdough Pancakes

✔ Use an Active or Discard Starter – Both work well! An active starter adds more rise, while discard gives a slightly tangier flavor.

✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir until just combined to keep the pancakes light and fluffy. Overmixing makes them dense.

✔ Let the Batter Rest – Allowing it to sit for 5–10 minutes before cooking enhances texture and fermentation, making the pancakes even softer.

✔ Cook on Medium Heat – Too high, and they’ll burn; too low, and they won’t cook through. A medium setting ensures a golden-brown exterior with a fluffy center.

✔ Wait for Bubbles Before Flipping – When you see bubbles forming on the surface, it’s time to flip! This ensures even cooking.

✔ Keep Pancakes Warm – Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven to keep them warm without drying out.

Flavorful Variations to Try

Classic Cinnamon Spice – Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist.

Berry Burst – Fold in fresh or frozen blueberries, raspberries, or chopped strawberries for a fruity explosion in every bite.

Banana Bliss – Mash ½ ripe banana into the batter for natural sweetness and a soft, moist texture.

Chocolate Lover’s Dream – Stir in dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent treat.

Nutty Crunch – Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for extra texture and flavor.

Coconut Delight – Swap out the buttermilk for coconut milk and sprinkle shredded coconut on top for a tropical twist.

Whether you stick to the classic sourdough pancake or try one of these fun variations, you’ll end up with a delicious, fluffy stack every time! Now, let’s talk about the best ways to serve and enjoy them.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your fluffy sourdough pancakes are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up! This is where you can get creative and make your pancakes even more irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them for a weekend brunch or a cozy weekday breakfast, the right toppings can take your pancakes to the next level.

Classic Toppings

Maple Syrup – The timeless choice! Warm maple syrup drizzled over your pancakes is the perfect way to enhance their natural flavor.
Butter – Add a pat of melted butter on top for a rich, creamy finish.
Powdered Sugar – For a simple, elegant touch, lightly dust with powdered sugar to add a little sweetness without overpowering the pancakes.

Fresh & Fruity

Fresh Berries – Try blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a fresh, juicy burst of flavor. They pair perfectly with the tangy sourdough.
Banana Slices – Sliced bananas add natural sweetness and a soft, creamy texture that complements the pancakes beautifully.
Caramelized Apples – Sautéed apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon create a warm, comforting topping.

Indulgent Toppings

Whipped Cream – Light and airy whipped cream makes a delightful addition to your pancakes, especially if you’re serving them as a special treat.
Nut Butters – Peanut butter, almond butter, or hazelnut spread provide a rich, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the fluffiness of the pancakes.
Chocolate Chips – Melted chocolate chips or chocolate sauce can make your pancakes feel like a decadent dessert!

Healthy Additions

Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pancakes.
Chia Seeds or Flaxseeds – For a healthy crunch and an extra boost of omega-3s, sprinkle on some chia seeds or flaxseeds.
Nuts – Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and protein to make your pancakes even more satisfying.

Syrup Alternatives

Honey – Drizzle on some honey for a smoother, more floral sweetness.
Agave Syrup – A vegan alternative to maple syrup, agave syrup is a lighter, mild option that still provides a sweet finish.

These toppings and add-ins give you endless options for personalizing your pancakes to suit any occasion. Whether you like them classic or want to add a touch of luxury, there’s a combination for everyone. Ready to dive into your stack? Enjoy the fluffy goodness!

Related Recipes

Looking for more delicious breakfast ideas? Don’t miss out on our irresistible recipe :

Sourdough French Toast : Treat yourself to the ultimate comfort breakfast with our golden, fluffy Sourdough French Toast—simple, delicious, and unforgettable!

Chorizo Breakfast Burrito : Spice up your morning with our bold and satisfying Chorizo Breakfast Burrito—perfect for a flavorful start to your day!

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Fluffy Sourdough Pancakes Recipes

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s light, fluffy, and full of flavor, this sourdough pancake recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re using sourdough discard or an active starter, the result is the same—perfectly tender pancakes with a unique tang and irresistible fluff. Plus, they’re easy to make, versatile, and a great way to use up that extra sourdough starter!

Not only are these pancakes delicious, but they also give you the freedom to get creative with toppings and mix-ins. From fresh berries to decadent chocolate chips, you can customize your stack to suit your cravings. Whether you’re serving them on a cozy weekend morning or preparing a special breakfast for family and friends, these pancakes are sure to impress.

So, grab your ingredients, heat up the griddle, and treat yourself to a fluffy, mouthwatering stack of sourdough pancakes today. You won’t be disappointed!

FAQs About Sourdough Pancakes Recipe

Got questions about making the perfect sourdough pancakes? No worries! Here are some of the most common queries to help you out and ensure you’re set for success.

Can I use a store-bought sourdough starter?

Absolutely! While homemade sourdough starter offers a unique flavor, store-bought sourdough starter works just as well. Just make sure it’s active, or you can use sourdough discard if you have it. Both options will result in delicious pancakes!

How can I make these pancakes dairy-free?

No problem! Simply swap out the buttermilk with dairy-free milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. For a dairy-free substitute for the butter, you can use coconut oil or any neutral-flavored vegetable oil. Your pancakes will still be super fluffy and delicious!

Can I make these pancakes gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make these pancakes gluten-free by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum, as it will help maintain the pancake’s structure and fluffiness.

How do I store leftover pancakes?

Leftover pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just separate the pancakes with parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag.

Can I make the batter in advance?

Yes, you can! If you prefer to prep ahead of time, refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before cooking, as it may thicken overnight. Note that the pancakes might be a bit tangier the longer the batter rests due to the sourdough fermentation.

Why are my pancakes flat?

Flat pancakes can result from overmixing the batter or using an old starter that isn’t as active. Be sure to mix until just combined, and check that your sourdough starter is fresh and bubbling with activity before using it in the batter.

If you still have questions or want to share your pancake experience, don’t hesitate to leave a comment! I love hearing from fellow pancake lovers and am always here to help. Happy cooking!

Recipe Recap: Fluffy Sourdough Pancakes

Recipe Details:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (makes about 8 pancakes)
Calories per serving: 250 kcal

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 330mg
Potassium: 150mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Recipe Categorization:

Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian, Optionally Gluten-Free, Optionally Dairy-Free
Method: Griddle/Skillet
Keyword: Sourdough Pancakes, Fluffy Pancakes, Homemade Pancakes
Skill Level: Beginner

This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy fluffy, tangy pancakes that are easy to prepare and completely customizable. Whether you’re serving them to family or just treating yourself to a delicious breakfast, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite!