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Happy National Waffle Day! This day was getting me pretty excited for a long time. I even purchased my first waffle iron for the occasion – and I was not disappointed. The sourdough waffles I made for our family gathering were a hit of the party. For those of you still on the fence in the waffle vs pancake debate (like my husband Micah), here are my top 5 reasons why waffles are better than pancakes. Bonus my sourdough waffle recipe at the bottom of this post!

Brief History of Waffles and Pancakes

The history of waffles dates back to ancient Greece, where they were made as flat cakes between metal plates. These evolved and spread through Europe, becoming a staple in France and the Low Countries by the 13th century. Intricately designed waffle irons gained popularity in the 17th century, symbolizing hospitality. Dutch immigrants brought waffles to North America, influencing American-style waffles. In contrast, pancakes have an even older history, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Romans and Greeks. Unlike waffles, pancakes are typically made from a batter poured onto a griddle or pan. While waffles have a distinct texture due to their grids, pancakes are flatter and more uniform. Both have evolved globally, but waffles are often associated with special occasions, while pancakes are commonly enjoyed as breakfast comfort food.

Why Waffles Are Better than Pancakes 

#1 Texture 

There is nothing that beats the crunchy little squares of a waffle. Crispy interior with a fluffy center – I mean…do I have to say more? Long fermented sourdough waffles made in a high-quality waffle maker will have especially crispy edges on the outside while staying nice and fluffy on the inside. Even the most perfect pancake won’t ever compare with texture. 

#2 Toppings

Yes, I know you can technically put toppings on both waffles and pancakes. And I have to admit, that adding things like chocolate chips or blueberries to pancake batter is an easy & fun way to change things up. But I would also argue that those same toppings are so much more enjoyable on a waffle than on a pancake. Take maple syrup for instance. Crunchy, syrupy waffles are so much better than the soggy mess that pancakes become once you add syrup. Another favorite waffle topping of ours is homemade raw milk ice cream. I can’t even imagine trying to have my pancakes with ice cream, but crispy waffles topped with a delicious frozen treat are so worth it. You can even get creative and make waffle cones! 

#3 Speed

This one really matters to me when it comes to breakfast foods. No matter how much I love my family or guests, I am not getting up hours ahead of everyone else just to make glorious breakfast treats. I often get irritated with how slowly you have to fry pancakes, especially when cooking for a large group. Yes, I use 3 pans at the same time, and I premake my batter the night before. And yet I get annoyed having to spend all that time staring at a frying pan, wondering if my pancakes are ready to be flipped. Not to mention that most of the fluff in my pancakes did have disappears by the time I make the last one. Cue my professional-level waffle iron and overnight sourdough batter. Each waffle is done in about 30 seconds to a minute. They come out with a perfectly crispy exterior. And because you can place your waffle iron just about anywhere, it doesn’t require me to be stuck in the kitchen while others are already eating, nor make the whole batch ahead of time.

#4 Fun 

This one is closely related to the previous point. But being able to use a waffle iron instead of having to stand by the stove means that even amateur cooks and other members of the family can make good waffles. This makes waffle making a fun activity that everyone can get involved in and creates less work for you. 

#5 Versatility

You can find waffles on a breakfast menu, lunch menu, or dinner menu. You can serve them as a main course, side dish, or dessert. A Belgian waffle is the ultimate brunch food. Serving fried chicken with a side of waffles is the epitome of comfort foods. Making brownie waffles or rainbow waffles makes for a really decadent dessert. The sky is the limit, which definitely can’t be said for pancakes. Pancakes are pretty much just..pancakes. A decent breakfast food that everyone is way too familiar with. 

My favorite waffle recipe

Equipment

• Waffle iron 
• Kitchen Aid or a Whisk
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

Overnight ferment batter:

• 1 cup sourdough starter
• 1 cup milk 
• 3 tbs honey
• 4 tbs melted butter 
• 2 cups flour (I like spelt)

Morning add-in ingredients: 

• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

1. In the bowl of your kitchen aid (or a large mixing bowl) mix together the sourdough starter, milk, honey, butter, and flour. Continue mixing until well combined. 
2. Cover the bowl and let stand on your kitchen counter overnight. 
3. The next morning, your batter should be nice and bubbly. Add the eggs, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined. 
4. Preheat your waffle iron. Pour about 1/2 cup of batter onto the iron and let cook until golden brown. 
5. Serve with your favorite toppings 

My favorite waffle toppings

A waffle is really like a blank canvas, all the toppings are what make it so much fun. Here is a list of my all-time favorites: 

• Peanut butter and banana 
• Melted chocolate (or homemade chocolate sauce) 
• Berries and homemade whipped cream 
• Maple syrup 
• Chicken wings (does that count as a topping lol)
• Chocolate chips and homemade whipped cream ​
• Yogurt with fruit 
• Homemade jam 
• Apple sauce 
• Shredded cheese and hot sauce​

Why you will love this recipe

• Basic ingredients that you probably already have at home 
• Fast to make & can prepare them ahead of time 
• Perfect meal for guests or large groups 
• Overnight fermentation means easier digestion, even for those sensitive to gluten

Benefits of Eating Fermented Waffles vs. Normal Batter Waffles:

1. Enhanced Flavor and Texture: Fermented waffles have a lighter, fluffier, and more flavorful texture due to the gases produced during fermentation, resulting in an appealing eating experience.
2. Improved Nutritional Value: Fermentation increases the bioavailability of nutrients by breaking down compounds like phytic acid, making essential minerals such as iron, zinc, and calcium more easily absorbed by the body.
3. Gut Health Promotion: Fermented foods introduce probiotics, beneficial microorganisms that support digestion and foster a balanced gut microbiome, contributing to better digestive health and potentially boosting the immune system.
4. Variety of Options: Fermented waffles offer a unique twist on traditional waffles, providing an alternative choice for those seeking a more nuanced flavor and nutritional profile.

​Sourdough Waffles FAQs

Can I use sourdough discard or do I have to use a fed sourdough starter?

You can use either! Both will work just fine for this recipe and make your waffles deliciously fluffy. 

How many waffles does this recipe make?

I find that waffle iron sizes vary, but this recipe makes about 4-5 standard-size waffles. I usually double or triple when we’re having company. 

Can you make this recipe day of?

​You certainly can, although they won’t be quite as fluffy. Simply mix all the ingredients together, allow to rest for about 20mins and continue to cook on a waffle iron as per the instructions above. 

Can I use any type of flour?​

Yes, you can get creative! All-purpose flour is your safest bet. I love using spelt flour. You might have to experiment a little with the amount of milk you’re using with different types of flour. 

How long does that batter have to ferment for? 

Overnight is ideal, but anywhere from 5-12 hours will do the trick. This depends on several different factors, like the maturity of your starter and the outside temperature. Do not leave your batter out for longer than 12 hours though. 

Other Sourdough Recipes You Will Love

• Easy Sourdough Crepes Recipe
• Pan-fried Sourdough Flatbread
• 10 ideas for what to eat sourdough bread with