Sourdough Biscuits

Introduction

Sourdough biscuits are a delicious twist on traditional biscuits, featuring a signature tangy flavor and flaky texture. By incorporating sourdough starter, you enhance both taste and texture while benefiting from the natural fermentation process. Whether you’re a seasoned sourdough baker or just starting out, this guide will walk you through making perfect sourdough biscuits at home.

Benefits of Sourdough Biscuits

Health Benefits of Sourdough Fermentation

• Easier digestion due to the breakdown of gluten
• Enhanced nutrient absorption from fermented flour
• Potential for better gut health thanks to probiotics

Want to learn more about sourdough fermentation? Check out our guide on how to test your sourdough starter for optimal baking results.

Unique Flavor Profile

Sourdough adds a rich, complex tang that balances beautifully with butter and other biscuit ingredients, making these a standout compared to regular biscuits.

If you love the tangy twist in baked goods, try our sourdough discard scones for another delicious treat!

Reduced Food Waste

Using sourdough discard in biscuit recipes is an excellent way to minimize waste while creating something delicious.

Essential Ingredients

Sourdough Starter Easy sourdough biscuits

A bubbly, active sourdough starter will give your biscuits extra lift and flavor. You can also use sourdough discard for a milder taste.

Flour Selection

All-purpose flour is a great choice, but you can experiment with whole wheat or a mix for added texture and nutrition. If you’re interested in whole grain sourdough baking, check out our whole wheat sourdough bread guide.

Fats: Butter vs. Shortening

• Butter: Adds rich flavor and crisp edges.
• Shortening: Creates a softer, flakier texture.

Looking for another butter-based delight? Try our perfect sourdough sugar cookies.

Leavening Agents: Baking Powder & Baking Soda

Even with sourdough, adding baking powder or soda helps ensure a good rise and airy texture.

Sweeteners & Additional Flavor Boosters

A touch of honey, sugar, or maple syrup enhances the tangy flavor, while mix-ins like cheese, herbs, or garlic can elevate the biscuits further.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sourdough Biscuits

1. Preparing the Sourdough Starter

Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active, or use discard for a milder sourdough flavor.

2. Mixing the Dough

• Combine dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, etc.).
• Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Mix in sourdough starter and a bit of milk or buttermilk.

For another discard-friendly dough, check out our quick sourdough discard pizza dough.

3. Rolling and Cutting the Biscuits

• Roll dough gently to about ½-inch thickness.
• Use a biscuit cutter (or glass) to cut out rounds.

Want a similar flaky texture in a different recipe? Try our flaky sourdough discard croissant cake.

4. Baking to Perfection

• Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Tips for the Best Sourdough Biscuits

• Keep all ingredients as cold as possible.
• Don’t overwork the dough to prevent tough biscuits.
• Bake immediately after cutting for the best rise.

Need more baking tips? Read our perfect sourdough coffee cake guide.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Flat Biscuits

• Use fresh baking powder and ensure your sourdough starter is active.

Dry or Crumbly Texture

• Use enough liquid and avoid over-baking.

Dough Not Rising Properly

• Ensure your starter is active or add extra baking powder.

For more discard-based troubleshooting, visit our easy sourdough discard recipes.

Variations of Sourdough Biscuits

Cheddar & Chive Biscuits

Add shredded cheddar and chopped chives for a savory twist.

Try our easy jalapeño cheddar sourdough bread for another cheesy delight!

Honey Butter Biscuits

Mix in honey for a touch of sweetness and brush with melted butter after baking.

Garlic & Herb Biscuits

Add garlic powder and fresh herbs for an aromatic, flavorful biscuit.

If you love garlic-infused bakes, check out sourdough garlic bread.

Serving Suggestions

• Best Toppings: Butter, honey, jam, or gravy.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve with soups, stews, or as a breakfast sandwich base.

For more breakfast-friendly sourdough recipes, visit our top sourdough discard breakfast recipes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked biscuits for later baking.
• Reheating: Warm in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

Looking for another make-ahead sourdough recipe? Try our sourdough bread pudding.

Sourdough Biscuits

Sourdough biscuits offer a delicious twist on traditional biscuits, featuring a signature tangy flavor and flaky texture. By incorporating sourdough starter, you enhance both taste and texture while benefiting from natural fermentation.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Biscuits

Cuisine American

Servings 12 biscuits

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Biscuit Cutter
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

Sourdough Biscuit Dough

• 1 cup sourdough starter active or discard
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter cold, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup buttermilk or milk

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Mix in the sourdough starter and buttermilk until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness on a floured surface.
• Cut out biscuits using a biscuit cutter and place them on a lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding shredded cheese, herbs, or a touch of honey to the dough.

Keyword Biscuits, Sourdough

Conclusion

Sourdough biscuits are a fantastic way to enjoy the tangy depth of sourdough in a light, flaky, and buttery biscuit. With simple ingredients and a little technique, you can create a homemade delight that pairs perfectly with any meal.

For more creative sourdough recipes, check out our 50 creative recipes using sourdough bread and starter.

FAQs