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These cottage cheese sourdough discard waffles are a crispy, fluffy, high-protein breakfast made with simple ingredients and a perfect way to use up extra sourdough discard.
Cottage Cheese Sourdough Waffles
As a busy working mom, I understand the struggle of balancing a hectic schedule while trying to provide nutritious meals for the family.
Between work, daycare runs, meal planning, and grocery runs, finding time to cook can feel nearly impossible.
One of the easiest ways to ensure my family gets a healthy start to the day is by meal prepping, and one of our favorites is homemade waffles.
However, store-bought frozen waffles often fall short in terms of nutrition and flavor.
Thatโs why Iโve turned to a game-changer in our breakfast routine with making Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles.
Table of Contents
Why add Cottage Cheese to Waffles?
Adding cottage cheese to waffles might sound unusual, but itโs a brilliant addition.
Cottage cheese is packed with protein and adds a creamy richness to the batter.
This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the waffles more satisfying and filling.
Each bite is a delightful blend of tangy sourdough and creamy cottage cheese, providing a hearty and delicious start to the day.
Equipment You’ll Need
To prepare these Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles, you’ll need:
Why use Sourdough in Waffles?
Sourdough isn’t just for bread.
Sourdough discard, the leftover starter you would normally throw away during the feeding process, can be repurposed to make waffles.
Sourdough offers numerous health benefits. Itโs easier to digest than regular flour, thanks to the fermentation process that breaks down gluten.
Sourdough also has a lower glycemic index, which means it won’t spike your blood sugar as much as regular waffles might.
Plus, the natural yeast and bacteria in sourdough are great for gut health.
How to make Light and Airy Waffles
The combination of sourdough discard and cottage cheese results in waffles that are exceptionally light and airy.
The fermentation process of the sourdough adds a unique depth of flavor and a slight tang, while the cottage cheese keeps the texture tender and moist.
These waffles are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
How to Meal Prep and Store Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles?
Meal prepping these cottage cheese sourdough waffles is a breeze and a true lifesaver on busy mornings. Hereโs how you can store them:
In the Fridge: Once the Cottage Cheese Sourdough waffles have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Theyโll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. When youโre ready to eat, simply pop them in the toaster or oven to reheat. This keeps them crisp and delicious.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, arrange the cooled cottage cheese sourdough waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, you can toast them straight from the freezer or let them thaw slightly before toasting.
Finding the Best Waffle Iron
To achieve the perfect waffle, a good waffle iron is essential. Look for one with adjustable temperature settings so you can control the level of crispness.
Non-stick surfaces are a must for easy removal and cleanup.
Some waffle irons also come with removable plates, which can be very handy for thorough cleaning.
Reading reviews and choosing a reputable brand can ensure you get a durable and efficient waffle maker that will last for years.
Here is a link to the exact waffle iron I use in my YouTube video.
Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles Recipe
Hereโs a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough discard โ Adds a tangy depth of flavor and helps create a light, tender texture.
- 1 cup cottage cheese โ Provides creaminess, protein, and a subtle richness to the batter.
- 2 eggs โ Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a fluffy structure.
- 1 cup milk โ Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter consistency.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter โ Enhances the flavor and gives the final product a soft, rich texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract โ Adds warmth and a touch of sweetness to complement the tangy flavors.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour โ Provides structure and stability to the batter.
- 1 tablespoon honeyโ Adds a hint of sweetness to balance out the tanginess.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder โ Helps the batter rise by creating air pockets.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda โ Works with the acidity of the sourdough discard to create lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt โ Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Instructions:
Preheat your waffle iron.
In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, cottage cheese, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Grease your waffle iron if necessary and pour the batter onto the hot surface. Cook according to your waffle ironโs instructions until golden brown and crispy.
Serve immediately or store as instructed above.
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What are the Health Benefits of Sourdough?
Sourdough is rich in vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.
The fermentation process also increases the bioavailability of these nutrients, making them easier for your body to absorb.
Additionally, the beneficial bacteria in sourdough can improve digestion and gut health, promoting overall well-being.
By incorporating these Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles into your meal prep routine, youโre not only saving time but also providing a nutritious and delicious breakfast for your family.
With their high protein content, gut-friendly properties, and irresistible flavor, these waffles are a win-win for busy moms everywhere.
So, grab your waffle iron and get cooking โ your mornings just got a whole lot easier and healthier!
Why Youโll Love These Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles
These cottage cheese sourdough discard waffles are the perfect combination of crispy, fluffy, and protein-packed. If youโre looking for a delicious way to use extra sourdough discard while adding more nutrition to breakfast, this recipe checks every box.
First, the cottage cheese adds a boost of protein while keeping the waffles soft and tender on the inside. It blends seamlessly into the batter, so you get the nutritional benefits without an overpowering flavor.
Second, this recipe is a fantastic way to reduce food waste. Instead of throwing away sourdough discard, you can turn it into a flavorful breakfast that the whole family will love.
Another reason these waffles are a favorite is their crispy golden exterior. The sourdough discard contributes subtle tang and helps create beautifully crisp edges when cooked in a waffle iron.
Finally, these waffles are incredibly versatile. They work just as well for a cozy weekend breakfast as they do for meal prep. Simply make a batch, freeze the extras, and reheat them in the toaster for a quick weekday breakfast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sourdough Discard Waffles
Even though this recipe is simple, a few small mistakes can affect the texture of your waffles. Avoid these common issues for the best results.
Overmixing the Batter: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense waffles instead of light and fluffy ones.
Skipping the Preheated Waffle Iron: A properly heated waffle iron is essential for crispy waffles. If the iron isnโt hot enough, the waffles may stick and turn out pale instead of golden brown.
Using Too Much Sourdough Discard: While sourdough discard adds flavor, too much can make the waffles overly tangy or heavy. Stick to the recipe measurements for the best balance of flavor and texture.
Not Greasing the Waffle Iron: Even if your waffle iron is non-stick, lightly greasing it with cooking spray or oil helps ensure the waffles release easily.
Opening the Waffle Iron Too Early: Resist the temptation to peek. Opening the waffle iron before the waffles are fully cooked can cause them to tear or stick.
Perfect Sides to Serve with Waffles
These cottage cheese sourdough discard waffles are satisfying on their own, but pairing them with protein-rich sides helps create a balanced and filling breakfast.
Scrambled Eggs: Soft scrambled eggs add extra protein and pair perfectly with the slightly tangy waffles.
Chicken Sausage: Chicken sausage is a flavorful and lean option that complements the crispy waffles without feeling too heavy.
Greek Yogurt with Fresh Fruit: A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt topped with berries adds additional protein and a refreshing contrast to the warm waffles.
Crispy Turkey Bacon: Turkey bacon provides a savory, smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of maple syrup or fruit toppings.
For a complete breakfast, serve your waffles with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt for a nourishing and satisfying start to the day.
FAQs for Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles
Can you taste the cottage cheese in these waffles?
No. The cottage cheese blends into the batter and melts into the waffles as they cook, leaving behind a creamy texture and added protein without a strong flavor.
Do I need an active sourdough starter for this recipe?
No active starter is required. This recipe uses sourdough discard, which is the unfed portion of starter typically removed during feeding.
Can I make these waffles ahead of time?
Yes! These waffles are perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can you freeze sourdough discard waffles?
Absolutely. Place cooled waffles in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the toaster or oven until warm and crispy.
Can I blend the cottage cheese for a smoother batter?
Yes. If you prefer a completely smooth waffle batter, you can blend the cottage cheese before adding it to the mixture.
What toppings go best with these waffles?
Popular toppings include maple syrup, fresh berries, sliced bananas, nut butter, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey.
Can I make these waffles gluten-free?
If your sourdough discard is gluten-free, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend for the regular flour in the recipe.
Why are my waffles sticking to the waffle iron?
This usually happens when the waffle iron isnโt fully preheated or isnโt lightly greased. Make sure the iron is hot and lightly coated with cooking spray before adding the batter.
Cottage Cheese Sourdough Discard Waffles
Ingredients
- 1ยฝ cups All purpose flour
- 2 T Honey
- ยฝ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup Sourdough Discard
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 3 T melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and have them measured out and ready to go.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together sourdough discard, milk, cottage cheese, and eggs until fully combined.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it's okay if there are a few lumps.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat a waffles iron over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour batter into sprayed waffle iron until it almost fill the waffles iron, but not all the way to the edges as it will spread when the lid is closed. Cook until the light on your waffle iron turns green.
- Keep Warm: Transfer the cooked waffles to a plate and keep warm. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter, greasing the iron as needed.
- Serve the waffles warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or peanut butter.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe for yourself? Leave a comment and photos below!
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Nutrition Disclaimer: Our Family Cooks is not a dietitian or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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