The Best Sourdough Hamburger Buns

Why Make Sourdough Hamburger Buns?

Have you ever made a homemade burger, crafted everything from scratch - except the bun? It’s time to level up your burger game with sourdough hamburger buns! The bun is just as important as the patty - it holds everything together and contributes to the overall flavor and texture. A well-made bun should be soft yet sturdy, with just the right amount of chew.

By using sourdough starter, you can create light, fluffy, and flavorful buns with a slight tang that pairs beautifully with juicy burgers. Plus, sourdough fermentation improves digestibility and enhances nutrition. Once you try these, there’s no turning back!

Ingredients for Sourdough Hamburger Buns

To make soft sourdough hamburger buns, you’ll need:

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)

• 250g (1 cup) milk

• 180g (3/4 cup) active sourdough starter

• 50g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tbsp sugar (optional but recommended, for slight sweetness)

• 15-25g (1-2 tsp) salt

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• Sesame seeds/flaky salt (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Feed Your Sourdough Starter

For the best results, feed your sourdough starter the night before so it's active and bubbly in the morning. If you're new to sourdough, check out our guide on maintaining a sourdough starter.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl:

1. Combine warm milk, sourdough starter, and sugar.

2. Add sifted flour and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead in soft butter and salt, ensuring everything is well incorporated.

4. Knead for 8-10 minutes until you achieve a soft, elastic dough.

Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

• Cover the dough, and let it rise at room temperature

• Perform a fold every hour - hour and a half for 3-4 hours to strengthen the dough. Check out our post on folding dough!

• Timing depends on room temperature and the texture of the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Buns

1. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces (or as many as you like).

2. Shape each piece into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath.

3. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray, leaving space to expand.

Step 5: Second Rise

• Cover and let the buns proof for 2-4 hours until puffy and light.

• If desired, place the tray in the fridge overnight for overnight sourdough rolls (bake straight from the fridge).

Step 6: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Brush buns with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

4. Let cool before slicing.

Pro tip: Adding steam to the oven, just like with sourdough bread, helps the buns rise better while keeping them moist. This prevents the outer layer from hardening too quickly, resulting in lighter, fluffier buns.

They look yummy! 

Customizing Your Buns

Sourdough Discard Hamburger Buns

If you forgot to feed up your starter, use sourdough discard instead of active starter.

No-Yeast Sourdough Buns

For a true wild fermentation, skip commercial yeast and rely solely on sourdough.

Same-Day Sourdough Buns

Need buns quickly? Shorten the fermentation time by proofing in a warm environment (27-30°C / 80-85°F).

How to Store Sourdough Hamburger Buns

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

FAQ

How do sourdough buns differ from regular burger buns?

Sourdough buns have a deeper flavor, better texture, and improved digestibility compared to traditional yeast-based buns.

Can I make sourdough brioche hamburger buns?

Yes! Use more butter, eggs, and milk for a richer, brioche-like texture.

Are sourdough burger buns healthy?

Yes! Fermentation reduces gluten content, enhances nutrition, and improves gut health.

Final thoughts

With this recipe, you’ll have the best sourdough hamburger buns - light, airy, and perfect for any burger. Try them today and elevate your burger game!

More Posts like this:

Folding Dough: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

How to Make Homemade Sourdough Bread: A Beginner’s Guide

How to Make a Sourdough Starter from Scratch: A Foolproof Guide