These sourdough cheese waffles are not just delicious but also a great way to use leftover sourdough starter! They’re cheesy, crispy on the outside, and fluffy inside—perfect for any meal.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a cheesy treat? I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a side of fresh salsa—it adds a fun twist. Give them a try, and you’ll want to make them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the recipe! It gives the waffles a unique flavor. If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can use a mix of yogurt and water (1 cup total) to mimic the tangy taste.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my top choice for adding flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta. Each type of cheese brings something special to the table!
Milk: I prefer whole milk for richer waffles, but you can use any milk you have on hand—almond, oat, or skim will work just fine!
Flour: All-purpose flour is great, but if you’re looking for something healthier, try whole wheat or a gluten-free flour blend. Just check if it needs xanthan gum.
Herbs: Fresh thyme adds nice flavor. If you don’t have thyme, try rosemary or Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs can really elevate the dish!
How Do You Achieve Crispy, Golden Waffles?
The key to crispy waffles is all in the cooking process. Here’s how to get that perfect texture:
- Make sure your waffle iron is preheated well before adding the batter. A hot iron means crispier waffles!
- Do not open the waffle iron too early; allow them to cook for at least 4-6 minutes until they’re golden and crisp.
- If your waffles tend to steam and get soggy, try leaving them on a wire rack instead of a plate to keep the air circulating.
Following these tips will help you enjoy perfectly crispy and golden sourdough cheese waffles every time!
Savory Sourdough Cheese Waffles Discard
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra savoriness)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Butter or oil for waffle iron, for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-30 minutes to cook, depending on your waffle iron. In total, you can have a delightful stack of savory waffles ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly grease it with some butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Wet Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter discard, milk, eggs, and olive oil or melted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until they are smooth and well mixed.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and thyme. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
5. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Now it’s time to fold in the shredded cheese and chopped parsley if using. Gently mix to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Cook the Waffles:
Spoon enough batter onto the preheated waffle iron to cover the surface without overflowing. Close the waffle iron and cook for approximately 4-6 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp.
7. Remove and Serve:
Carefully take the waffles out and place them on a wire rack to keep them crispy. Repeat with any leftover batter.
8. Enjoy Your Waffles:
Serve the warm waffles with a pat of butter, a dollop of sour cream, or any toppings you love, like chives, smoked salmon, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your savory treat!
Make these delicious sourdough cheese waffles a regular part of your meal planning—they’re perfect for brunch or a quick snack any time of the day!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can! Whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and increase the nutritional value. Just keep in mind that it may make the waffles a bit denser, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly by adding an extra tablespoon of milk if the batter seems thick.
How Do I Store Leftover Waffles?
Leftover waffles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually in a freezer-safe zip bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop them in the toaster or toaster oven to reheat!
Can I Customize the Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you like or have on hand. Mozzarella, gouda, or even feta can work beautifully, just remember that the flavor and texture will vary slightly depending on the type of cheese you choose.
What Can I Serve with These Waffles?
These savory waffles pair wonderfully with toppings like sour cream, fresh herbs, avocado, or even a poached egg. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
