Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (+ optional 30-minute chill time)
Servings: 8 biscuits
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~220 kcal
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you have a jar of sourdough discard sitting in your fridge, this recipe is the perfect way to use it up! These biscuits are flaky, buttery, and slightly tangy, with a golden-brown crust that’s irresistible. They pair wonderfully with soups, stews, or just a smear of honey and butter.
Best of all, this recipe requires no yeast or baking powder—the sourdough discard provides a natural lift, making these biscuits light and airy.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup (240g) sourdough discard (unfed, at room temperature)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) cold milk or buttermilk
For Brushing (Optional):
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Flaky sea salt (for finishing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
- Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
- Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.
Step 3: Add Sourdough Discard & Milk
- Pour in the sourdough discard and cold milk (or buttermilk).
- Gently mix with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Shape & Cut the Biscuits
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat (do not roll) into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
- Fold the dough in half, then pat down again. Repeat 2-3 times for flaky layers.
- Use a 2.5-inch biscuit cutter (or a glass) to cut out biscuits. Avoid twisting—press straight down.
- Place biscuits on the baking sheet, close together (for taller biscuits) or spaced apart (for crispier edges).
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Optional: Chill biscuits in the fridge for 20-30 minutes for extra flakiness.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky salt right after baking.
Nutritional Information (Per Biscuit)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 7g |
Cholesterol | 30mg |
Sodium | 300mg |
Total Carbohydrate | 25g |
Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Sugars | 1g |
Protein | 4g |
Tips for the Best Sourdough Discard Biscuits
✅ Cold ingredients = flakier biscuits – Keep butter and milk chilled.
✅ Don’t overwork the dough – Handle gently to avoid tough biscuits.
✅ No sourdough discard? Substitute with 1/2 cup Greek yogurt + 1/2 tsp baking powder.
✅ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Slice and fill with sausage, egg, and cheese for a breakfast sandwich.
- Dinner Side: Serve with soup, chili, or fried chicken.
- Sweet Option: Drizzle with honey or jam for a quick treat.
Final Thoughts
These Sourdough Discard Biscuits are the perfect way to reduce food waste while enjoying a homemade, bakery-style treat. They’re easy, versatile, and delicious—whether you’re a sourdough pro or just starting out.

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