Potato Flake Sourdough Discard Recipes for Tasty Bakes

Updated On: October 18, 2025

Discarding sourdough starter can feel wasteful, but what if you could transform that sourdough discard into mouthwatering dishes? Using potato flakes in sourdough discard recipes is a game-changer!

Potato flakes add moisture, tenderness, and a subtle richness to your baked goods and snacks. Whether you’re baking bread, pancakes, or savory treats, incorporating potato flakes not only enhances texture but also revives your discard in a delicious, creative way.

This blog post dives into several fantastic potato flake sourdough discard recipes that will inspire you to reduce waste and enjoy unique flavors at home. From soft, fluffy pancakes to crispy crackers and hearty bread, these recipes are versatile and simple to prepare.

Get ready to surprise your taste buds and make the most out of your sourdough discard with the power of potato flakes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Using potato flakes in sourdough discard recipes offers multiple benefits. First, potato flakes absorb moisture beautifully, producing tender crumbs in baked goods.

This is especially helpful when working with sourdough discard, which can sometimes make textures unpredictable. The natural starches in potato flakes improve the softness and extend the freshness of your creations.

Additionally, potato flakes lend a subtle, comforting flavor that complements the tanginess of sourdough. They also help create a lighter crumb and beautiful golden crusts.

These recipes are perfect for home bakers looking to reduce waste, enhance flavor, and experiment with their sourdough discard beyond traditional bread.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed or recently fed)
  • 1/2 cup instant potato flakes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust for savory or sweet)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil
  • Optional: herbs, spices, or seeds for flavor variation

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk and spatula
  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Baking sheet (for crackers or breads)
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough discard, milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
  2. Add dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, potato flakes, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Mix batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula to avoid overmixing. The batter should be thick but pourable.
  4. Preheat your skillet or griddle: Heat over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
  5. Cook pancakes (if making pancakes): Pour about 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto the hot surface. Cook 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook another 2 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Bake bread or crackers: For bread, pour batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. For crackers, spread the dough thinly on parchment-lined baking sheets, score into squares, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until crisp.
  7. Cool and serve: Transfer cooked items to a cooling rack to prevent sogginess and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

“Adding potato flakes not only improves moisture retention but also enhances the shelf life of your baked goods.”

  • Make savory pancakes: Add chopped chives, grated cheese, or cooked bacon bits to the batter for a delicious brunch option.
  • Sweeten it up: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, or fresh berries for a sweet twist.
  • Gluten-free adaptation: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but keep the potato flakes as they help with structure.
  • Use leftover mashed potatoes: Replace potato flakes with 1/2 cup mashed potatoes for a denser texture.
  • Storage advice: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer keeping.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 pancake approx.)
Calories 120 kcal
Carbohydrates 20 g
Protein 4 g
Fat 3.5 g
Fiber 1 g
Sodium 200 mg

Serving Suggestions

Potato flake sourdough discard pancakes pair wonderfully with classic maple syrup and fresh berries. For a savory option, serve them alongside scrambled eggs, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream mixed with herbs.

If you’re baking bread or crackers, these make excellent accompaniments to soups, stews, or cheese boards. Try pairing crispy potato flake sourdough crackers with hummus, olive tapenade, or your favorite dip for a satisfying snack.

For an elevated brunch, top pancakes with smoked salmon and crème fraîche or a drizzle of honey and toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Potato flake sourdough discard recipes are a fantastic way to reduce kitchen waste while creating delicious, tender baked goods. The unique properties of potato flakes complement the tangy, robust flavor of sourdough discard, resulting in soft pancakes, flavorful breads, and crispy crackers.

These recipes are approachable for bakers of all skill levels and can be tailored to sweet or savory preferences.

Experimenting with potato flakes in your sourdough discard recipes not only enhances texture and moisture but also breathes new life into your starter discard. Whether you’re making a quick breakfast or preparing snacks for a gathering, these recipes will impress your friends and family.

Be sure to check out our other recipes like “Classic Sourdough Bread”, “Sourdough Pancakes with Blueberry Compote”, and “Rustic Sourdough Crackers” for more exciting ways to enjoy your sourdough starter!

📖 Recipe Card: Potato Flake Sourdough Discard Pancakes

Description: These fluffy pancakes use sourdough discard and potato flakes for a tender texture and subtle tang. Perfect for breakfast or brunch with a crispy outside and soft inside.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sourdough discard
  • 1/2 cup instant potato flakes
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, milk, and egg.
  2. Add melted butter and vanilla extract, stir to combine.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix potato flakes, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir gently until just mixed.
  5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and grease lightly.
  6. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake onto skillet.
  7. Cook until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook until golden.
  8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 7g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 30g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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