Looking for the perfect way to use up your sourdough discard? These sourdough discard hamburger buns are soft, fluffy, and ready in under 2 hours. Whether you’re firing up the grill or making sliders for dinner, these quick sourdough buns are a delicious, no-fuss addition to any meal.
Made with instant yeast and a touch of sourdough discard, this recipe gives you the best of both worlds: the rich flavor of sourdough buns with the speed of a traditional yeast dough.
Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Hamburger Buns
- Uses just ½ cup of sourdough discard or starter
- Comes together quickly with instant yeast
- Makes soft, flavorful discard burger buns for any occasion
- No long fermentation required — just mix, rise, and bake!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons instant yeast
- ¾ cup sourdough discard or active starter
- ½ cup warm water
- 2 cups hot water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 5 tablespoons melted butter or avocado oil
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg (for the dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing tops before baking)
How to Make Sourdough Discard Hamburger Buns
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant yeast, warm water, and sourdough discard. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the hot water, sugar, salt, melted butter or oil, and one egg. Stir to combine. Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead & First Rise
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Return to the bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 30–45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Final Rise
Cover and let the buns rise again for 20–30 minutes while your oven preheats to 375°F (190°C).
Step 6: Brush & Bake
Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the buns cool slightly before slicing and serving with your favorite burgers or sandwiches.
Sourdough Discard Hamburger Buns
These sourdough dsicard hamburger buns are light and fluffy never dry and perfect for your summer cookout burgers!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons instant yeast
- ¾ cup sourdough discard or active starter
- ½ cup warm water
- 2 cups hot water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 5 tablespoons melted butter or avocado oil
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg (for the dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing tops before baking)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant yeast, warm water, and sourdough discard. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until slightly foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the hot water, sugar, salt, melted butter or oil, and one egg. Stir to combine. Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead & First Rise
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Return to the bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 30–45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape into smooth balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Final Rise
Cover and let the buns rise again for 20–30 minutes while your oven preheats to 375°F (190°C).
Step 6: Brush & Bake
Brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the buns cool slightly before slicing and serving with your favorite burgers or sandwiches.
Tips for Perfect Quick Sourdough Buns
- Use hot but not boiling water to help activate the yeast quickly.
- For extra softness, brush with melted butter after baking.
- Add sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning after brushing with egg wash for a gourmet finish.
- These sourdough hamburger buns freeze beautifully — just cool and store in a zip-top bag.
Serving Suggestions
These fluffy sourdough buns are perfect for:
- Classic beef or veggie burgers
- Pulled pork or BBQ chicken sandwiches
- Breakfast sandwiches with egg, cheese, and sausage
- Sliders or mini sandwiches for parties
More Sourdough Discard Recipes
These sourdough discard hamburger buns are a fast, flavorful way to use your starter and elevate your sandwich game. With a fluffy texture and rich, slightly tangy flavor, they’re a crowd-pleaser for weeknights, cookouts, or anytime you're craving a homemade bun.
Debi
Can you half the recipe?
The Evergreen Acre
Hi Debi,
You sure can! I would stick with one egg for the dough. The consistency should be pretty similar!