Sourdough Scones Recipe: Tangy, Flaky, and Delicious

Sourdough scones bring a delightful twist to traditional scones, infusing them with the tangy flavor of sourdough discard. These scones are flaky, buttery, and slightly sweet, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or a scone lover, this recipe will elevate your baking repertoire.

What Makes Sourdough Scones Unique?

Sourdough scones are distinct from regular scones due to the addition of sourdough discard. This ingredient not only adds a unique tangy flavor but also helps reduce food waste by utilizing leftover sourdough starter. The result is a scone that’s tender on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior—ideal for pairing with your favorite spreads or enjoying on its own.

If you’re a fan of sourdough recipes, you might also enjoy these Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls, which are another delicious way to use up your sourdough discard. Additionally, for those exploring various ways to reduce kitchen waste, check out this guide on minimizing food waste for more tips and tricks.

Ingredients Needed for Sourdough Scones

To create the perfect sourdough scones, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Sourdough Discard: Adds a tangy flavor and helps bind the dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the scones.
• Cold Butter: Essential for creating flaky layers.
• Baking Powder: Helps the scones rise and become fluffy.
• Salt and Sugar: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma.
• Mix-ins: Options include blueberries, chocolate chips, or nuts.

For those who enjoy baking sweet treats, these Honey Butter Cornbread Cookies are another delightful recipe that balances sweetness and texture perfectly. If you’re new to baking with sourdough, this introductory guide to sourdough baking provides helpful tips to get started.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sourdough Scones

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

The first step in making sourdough scones is to prepare the dough:

• Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This forms the base of your scone dough.
• Cutting in the Butter: Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or two knives to cut it into the flour mixture. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.
• Adding Sourdough Discard and Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the sourdough discard, vanilla extract, and half-and-half. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 2: Shaping the Scones

Once the dough is ready, it’s time to shape the scones:

• Kneading the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and gently knead the dough 5 to 10 times, just until it comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the scones tender.
• Cutting the Dough: Shape the dough into a round disc, about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or a bench scraper to cut the disc into 8 wedges.

Step 3: Baking the Scones

Baking the scones is the final step:

• Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Baking Time: Place the scones on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Brush the tops with a little extra half-and-half and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

For a sweet treat after dinner, consider serving these scones alongside another indulgent dessert like Funnel Cake, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Variations of Sourdough Scones

Sourdough scones are incredibly versatile and can be customized with a variety of flavors:

Sweet Sourdough Scones

For a sweet treat, consider adding mix-ins like:

• Chocolate Chips: For a rich, indulgent scone.
• Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries add a burst of flavor.
• Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or apricots work well.

Savory Sourdough Scones

For a savory twist, try these combinations:

• Cheddar and Chives: A classic flavor pairing that works beautifully in scones.
• Bacon and Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits and sharp cheddar for a hearty snack.

Gluten-Free Sourdough Scones

To make gluten-free sourdough scones, use a gluten-free flour blend. This substitution will ensure that everyone can enjoy these tangy treats.

Vegan Sourdough Scones

For a vegan version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs (a mixture of ground flaxseed and water) instead of regular eggs.

Serving Suggestions for Sourdough Scones

Sourdough scones can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Clotted Cream and Jam: For a traditional British tea-time experience, serve your scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
• With Butter and Honey: For a simpler option, spread butter and drizzle honey over warm scones.
• Pairing with Beverages: Enjoy your scones with a cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk.

Nutritional Information and Health Considerations

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of these scones:

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories per scone, depending on the size and ingredients used.
• Fat Content: These scones are rich in fat, primarily from the butter, which contributes to their flaky texture.
• Sugar Content: The sugar in the recipe adds sweetness, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Healthier Alternatives

For a healthier version of these scones:

• Reduce Sugar: Use less sugar or substitute with a natural sweetener.
• Use Whole-Grain Flour: Swap some or all of the all-purpose flour for whole-grain flour to increase fiber content.
• Low-Fat Options: Consider using a low-fat butter substitute or reducing the amount of butter in the recipe.

For more tips on making baked goods healthier, check out this guide to healthier baking.

FAQs About Sourdough Scones

Conclusion

These scones are a delightful way to enjoy the unique flavor of sourdough in a different format. Whether you prefer them sweet or savory, these scones are versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch of scones that are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy the tangy, flaky goodness of homemade sourdough scones!

For more inspiration and tips on baking scones, be sure to explore these delicious Honey Butter Cornbread Cookies, which offer a sweet, buttery alternative to your usual baked goods.