There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly made waffles wafting through your kitchen, especially when they’re packed with the rich, tangy flavor of sourdough and delicious chocolate chips. These Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles bring a delightful twist to your breakfast routine, transforming unfed sourdough starter into a delectable meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for a weekend brunch treat or a quick weekday breakfast, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings while minimizing food waste.

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles stand out for several reasons. First and foremost, they utilize sourdough discard, helping you reduce waste while still enjoying a delicious meal. The fermentation process of sourdough adds depth of flavor and a unique texture that can’t be replicated by regular waffles. Moreover, the addition of chocolate chips elevates these waffles, making them a sweet treat that the whole family will adore. The combination of gluten-free flour and coconut milk makes this recipe accessible for a variety of dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

The Essentials

To make these delightful Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup sourdough discard – This unfed sourdough starter provides the signature tangy flavor and lightness.
1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour – A versatile flour blend that ensures these waffles are gluten-free.
1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk or regular milk – Creamy and rich, coconut milk adds a wonderful flavor and moisture.
2 eggs, beaten – Eggs bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted and cooled, or avocado oil – These oils add richness and help to keep the waffles moist.
2 Tbsp honey – A natural sweetener that complements the chocolate chips perfectly.
1 tsp baking soda – This helps the waffles rise and become fluffy.
1/2 tsp sea salt – Enhances all the flavors in the waffles.
1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
1/3 cup chocolate chips – A sweet addition that makes these waffles irresistible!

Recommended Tools

To make your cooking process smoother, gather the following tools:

Waffle maker – Essential for cooking the waffles to perfection.
Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple for combining wet and dry ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for baking.
Spatula – Perfect for folding the ingredients together without overmixing.
Whisk – Ideal for mixing eggs and combining dry ingredients.

Method: Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles

Follow these simple steps to create your own Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of sourdough discard, 1 cup of gluten-free all-purpose flour, 1 cup of coconut milk, and 2 beaten eggs. Mix well until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor

Stir in the 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of honey. If you’re using ground cinnamon, add 1 teaspoon at this stage. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, sea salt, and any remaining flour. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, gently folding until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the 1/3 cup of chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Preheat the Waffle Maker

Turn on your waffle maker and let it preheat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 6: Cook the Waffles

Once preheated, pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the waffle maker (usually about 1/2 to 3/4 cup, depending on your machine). Close the lid and cook according to your waffle maker’s instructions, typically for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the waffles and serve them warm with your favorite toppings – think maple syrup, whipped cream, or even more chocolate chips!

Substitutions by Diet

If you need to make adjustments based on dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

Dairy-free: Use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk.
Egg-free: Substitute 1/4 cup applesauce or 1/4 cup mashed banana for each egg.
Lower sugar: Reduce the honey or substitute it with a sugar-free sweetener.
Nut-free: Ensure the gluten-free flour does not contain nuts, and use sunflower oil instead of coconut oil.

Cook’s Commentary

These Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles are incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize them to suit your taste. Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even a scoop of protein powder for an added boost. The tanginess from the sourdough discard is a fantastic contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a balanced flavor profile that will have you coming back for seconds.

Try making a double batch and freezing extras for quick breakfasts during busy mornings.
If you prefer a crispier waffle, cook them a little longer until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Mix in different flavors of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or peanut butter chips, for a fun twist.

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles fresh, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerator: Store leftover waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the toaster or oven.

Handy Q&A

Can I use fed sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, you can use a fed sourdough starter, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly. The discard gives a more pronounced tanginess.

What can I serve with these waffles?

These waffles are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with maple syrup, fresh fruit, yogurt, or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

While you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance, it’s best to mix the wet ingredients just before cooking to ensure the waffles rise properly.

How do I know when the waffles are done cooking?

Your waffles are typically done when they are golden brown and the steam from the waffle maker has significantly reduced. Check your waffle maker’s instructions for specific indicators.

Before You Go

Now that you have the recipe for Chocolate Chip Sourdough Waffles, it’s time to get cooking! These waffles are not only a fantastic way to utilize sourdough discard but also a delicious addition to your breakfast table. Embrace the joy of homemade waffles and enjoy the scrumptious combination of flavors that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Happy cooking, and may your mornings be filled with the warmth and comfort of a fresh batch of these delightful waffles! Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face. Enjoy every bite!