If you’re a fan of both scones and sourdough, why not combine the two to create a treat that’s both flavorful and nutritious? Sourdough scones offer the perfect combination of fluffy, tender crumb with the signature tang of sourdough. Whether you’re using an active starter or discard, these scones bring something new and exciting to the table. Let’s explore how you can make the perfect sourdough scones while also diving into the benefits, variations, and tips for success.
What is a Sourdough Starter?
A sourdough starter is the magic behind these flavorful scones. It’s a fermented mixture of flour and water that contains naturally occurring wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria. These microbes work together to leaven your dough while adding the tangy flavor that sourdough is known for.
When making sourdough scones, you can use either active sourdough starter or discard. Active starter is bubbly and ready to raise your dough, while discard is typically used when the starter hasn’t been fed recently. Both can be used in baking, but each will yield slightly different results.
For those unfamiliar with starters, maintaining a healthy sourdough starter is essential for ensuring your baked goods rise properly. If you’re interested in exploring other recipes that utilize a starter or fermented dough, check out this French Bread Recipe for more inspiration on sourdough’s versatility.
What is Sourdough Discard?
If you’re just beginning your sourdough journey, you might wonder what to do with all the leftover discard from feeding your starter. Sourdough discard is the portion of the starter that you remove when feeding it to refresh the yeast and bacteria. While discard is not strong enough to leaven bread on its own, it adds a tangy flavor and can be a fantastic ingredient in recipes like pancakes, crackers, and of course, scones.
Using sourdough discard in baking helps reduce waste while still giving you the tangy flavor that sourdough fans love.
Sourdough Starter vs. Discard in Scones
While you can use either active starter or discard for sourdough scones, the texture and rise will be slightly different:
- Active Starter: Results in a lighter, fluffier scone with more rise.
- Discard: Denser texture, but still flavorful with the signature sourdough tang.
Health Benefits of Sourdough Scones
One of the most significant advantages of baking with sourdough is the health benefits. Thanks to the fermentation process, sourdough scones are easier to digest than traditional scones. The fermentation breaks down gluten, which can be easier on your digestive system, and the presence of lactic acid bacteria improves gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Sourdough’s long fermentation time also helps reduce phytic acid, an antinutrient that can block the absorption of minerals like iron and zinc. This means that sourdough scones may help you absorb more nutrients from the food you eat.
If you’re looking to enjoy more health benefits from your baking, consider trying this Cottage Cheese Bread for another high-protein, nutrient-packed option.
Key Health Benefits of Sourdough Scones:
- Gut-friendly: The lactic acid bacteria in sourdough improves digestion and gut health.
- Lower Glycemic Index: Sourdough bread and scones are typically easier on blood sugar levels due to the slower fermentation process.
- Nutrient-Rich: Fermentation increases the bioavailability of nutrients such as folate, magnesium, and zinc.
Types of Sourdough Scones
The beauty of sourdough scones is their versatility. Depending on your flavor preferences and ingredients on hand, you can easily switch up your scone recipe. Below are some variations you can try:
1. Plain Sourdough Scones
Plain sourdough scones are an excellent starting point for those new to baking with sourdough. With a simple ingredient list, these scones deliver a subtle tang from the sourdough starter, paired with a tender crumb.
2. Flavored Sourdough Scones
For a more adventurous option, you can add various flavors and ingredients to your scones. Popular flavors include:
- Chocolate chip sourdough scones: A sweet and indulgent option that pairs tangy sourdough with rich chocolate.
- Lemon poppy seed sourdough scones: A bright, zesty flavor perfect for a springtime brunch.
- Cinnamon raisin sourdough scones: A comforting classic, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
You can also experiment with savory scones by adding cheese, herbs, and spices like rosemary or thyme.
3. Sourdough Discard Scones
For those looking to reduce kitchen waste, sourdough discard scones are an excellent option. These scones have a denser crumb but retain all the delightful sour flavor you expect from sourdough. If you’re trying to find creative ways to use your sourdough discard, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients Breakdown for Perfect Sourdough Scones Recipe
Creating the perfect sourdough scone starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Sourdough starter or discard: Provides the signature tangy flavor and acts as a natural leavening agent.
- Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but you can substitute whole wheat or even gluten-free flour if needed.
- Butter: Cold, cubed butter is crucial for creating a flaky texture in your scones. Dairy-free alternatives like vegan butter also work well.
- Milk or cream: Adds moisture and richness. Dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk are great for vegan versions.
- Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness. You can use alternatives like honey or maple syrup if you prefer natural sweeteners.
Optional add-ins like fresh or dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture of your scones.
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Sourdough Scones
Now that you’re familiar with the ingredients and health benefits, let’s dive into the recipe. Follow these steps for perfect sourdough scones every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sourdough starter (or discard)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional add-ins: dried fruits, nuts, chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the sourdough starter: Stir in the sourdough starter (or discard) and milk until a dough forms.
- Fold in add-ins: If using fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough.
- Shape the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and pat it into a 1-inch thick round. Cut into 8 wedges.
- Bake: Place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
Sourdough scones are best served warm with a spread of butter, jam, or cream. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even though sourdough scones are relatively easy to make, there are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results:
- Overmixing the dough: Overworking the dough can result in tough, dense scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Not chilling the butter: Warm butter won’t create the flaky layers that make scones so delightful. Be sure to use cold butter and handle the dough quickly.
- Ignoring the sourdough starter: Make sure your starter is fresh and active for the best rise, or if you’re using discard, ensure it hasn’t been sitting too long.
Tips for Customizing Sourdough Scones Recipe
Sourdough scones are incredibly customizable. Here are a few tips to help you tailor them to your preferences:
- Sweet scones: Add fresh or dried fruits like blueberries, cherries, or apricots.
- Savory scones: Incorporate cheeses like cheddar or feta, along with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or spices like paprika.
- Gluten-free options: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan options: Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk.
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Scones Recipe
To keep your sourdough scones fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Storing baked scones: Store your scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing scones: Scones freeze well. To freeze, place baked scones in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
If you’d like to explore more delicious baked goods that store well and can be enjoyed over time, consider this easy-to-make Pistachio Muffins Recipe.
FAQs About Sourdough Scones Recipe
Here are some frequently asked questions about making and baking sourdough scones:
What is the best way to use sourdough discard in scones?
Sourdough discard works wonderfully in scones because it adds a tangy flavor without needing to be fully active. Just make sure your discard is not too old or inactive for the best results.
Can I make sourdough scones without a starter?
Technically, no. The key to sourdough scones is the use of a sourdough starter. However, you could make similar scones using baking powder as a leavening agent if you don’t have a starter on hand.
How long does sourdough starter last for baking scones?
A properly maintained sourdough starter can last indefinitely. However, discard should be used within one week for the best flavor and activity level.
Are sourdough scones healthier than regular scones?
Yes! The fermentation process in sourdough makes it easier to digest and may lower the glycemic index compared to regular scones.
How do I get my scones to rise properly?
Use cold butter and avoid overmixing the dough. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best results.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Sourdough Scones
Sourdough scones are not just a delicious twist on a traditional baked good—they’re also a healthier option due to the benefits of fermentation. With a versatile range of flavors and endless customization options, sourdough scones are a must-try for any home baker. Whether you stick to a basic recipe or experiment with different flavors, these scones are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
If you’re interested in exploring more unique baking recipes, you may want to check out this Brown Sugar Bread Recipe for another delightful option to add to your baking repertoire.