These savory sourdough cheese waffles are a tasty way to use your sourdough discard! They have a nice cheesy flavor combined with a crisp outside and soft inside. Yum!
Honestly, I could eat these for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! They taste amazing topped with a little butter or extra cheese. Give them a try, and I promise you won’t regret it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter Discard: This is the star of the recipe! It adds a unique flavor and helps with the rise. If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can substitute with plain yogurt, but the taste will be different. I like to keep my discard in the fridge until I’m ready to use it!
Flour: All-purpose flour is common here, but you can try using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser. I’d recommend keeping a mix of both if you want the best of both worlds!
Milk: While whole milk is creamy and adds richness, buttermilk is my favorite choice for added tang and moisture. If dairy is a concern, non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can work too, just ensure they are unsweetened.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is bold and delicious, but feel free to use any cheese you love! Mozzarella gives a gooey texture, or you could go for feta for a salty kick. I love experimenting with different cheeses based on what I have on hand.
What’s the Best Method for Mixing the Waffle Batter?
Getting the batter right is key for delicious waffles. Start by combining your wet ingredients in one bowl and dry in another. It’s important to mix them separately to avoid overmixing.
- Whisk together the sourdough starter, milk, and eggs until fully blended.
- Add the melted butter and mix again until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pepper.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. A few lumps are okay! This keeps your waffles light and fluffy.
- Finally, gently fold in your cheese and chives, taking care not to overwork the batter.
This technique really helps to create a fluffy interior while keeping the outside crispy. Don’t rush this part; it makes all the difference!
How to Make Savory Sourdough Cheese Waffles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Waffle Batter:
- 1 cup sourdough starter discard (unfed)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk (whole or buttermilk)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives (plus more for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, depending on how many waffles you make at once. So, in about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have delicious, savory waffles ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Waffle Iron:
Start by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures that the waffles cook evenly and get that wonderful crispy texture we all love!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter discard, milk, and eggs until everything is well combined. It’s a good idea to get these ingredients blended well for a smooth batter.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
Next, add the melted butter to the mixture. Give it another whisk until the butter is fully incorporated. This step adds richness and flavor to your waffles!
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Remember, you don’t want to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly okay.
6. Add Cheese and Chives:
Now it’s time to fold in the shredded cheese and chopped chives. Use a spatula to gently mix them in, making sure they’re evenly distributed but still being careful not to overwork the batter.
7. Prepare the Waffle Iron:
Lightly grease your waffle iron with some butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the waffles from sticking and help them achieve that crunchy exterior.
8. Cooking the Waffles:
Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the hot waffle iron, spreading it slightly to fill the edges. Close the iron and cook until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, which usually takes about 4-6 minutes, depending on your specific waffle iron.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the waffles and place them on a wire rack to keep them crisp while you finish the rest of the batter. Serve the waffles warm, garnished with a sprinkle of additional chopped chives if you like!
These savory sourdough waffles are the perfect combination of crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside. They make a fantastic breakfast, brunch, or even a delightful snack. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, feel free to substitute with any cheese of your choice. Mozzarella, gouda, or even feta would all work wonderfully, adding different flavors to your waffles.
How Can I Make These Waffles Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free sourdough waffles, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Just ensure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum, or add a little yourself to help with texture.
Can I Freeze Leftover Waffles?
Yes, you can freeze these waffles! Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Savory Sourdough Cheese Waffles?
These waffles pair beautifully with a variety of toppings! Try serving them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or alongside a green salad for a well-rounded meal. You can even enjoy them as a side dish to soup!
