10+ Sourdough Summer Recipes That Are Great For Hot Days

When you’ve got an active starter on the counter or a jar of discard in the fridge, there are so many easy, light, and tasty ways to enjoy sourdough in the summer. On hot days, I love making lighter sourdough recipes that my family can enjoy—and now I’m excited to share 10+ of our favorite sourdough summer recipes for you to try too!

These sourdough recipes are a great fit for summer gatherings—or simply as a breakfast, brunch, a snack, or dinner for your family.

Sourdough Discard Blueberry and Lemon Quick Bread

Sourdough Discard Blueberry and Lemon Quick Bread is a great way to use up extra sourdough starter. This quick bread combines juicy blueberries and fresh lemon zest for a bright, slightly sweet flavor. The result is a moist, soft loaf with just enough richness to enjoy as a light dessert or a snack.

Aromatic Rosemary Sourdough Bread Recipe

The earthy aroma and flavor of fresh herbs shine in this loaf, making Rosemary Sourdough Bread a delicious upgrade from the classic version. Easy to make and wonderfully fragrant, this variation keeps the simplicity of traditional sourdough while adding a savory twist that’s perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying with everyday meals.

Sourdough Focaccia Bread Recipe

Soft, airy, and topped with a crispy golden crust, Sourdough Focaccia Bread is the kind of recipe that easily fits into any schedule—whether you bake it the same day or let it rise overnight. Its versatility makes it perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or enjoying with your favorite toppings. This simple and flexible bread is always a crowd-pleaser, especially in my family.

Sourdough Pull Apart Garlic Bread

With its fluffy texture, rich buttery layers, and bold garlic flavor, Sourdough Pull-Apart Garlic Bread stands out as an irresistible, hands-on favorite. The dough tears apart effortlessly, making each bite soft and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare, with the option for a same-day bake or an overnight rise for added flexibility.

Sourdough Discard Banana Bread

Moist and tender with deep banana flavor, Sourdough Discard Banana Bread is a smart way to use up extra discard and ripe bananas. The sourdough adds a subtle richness that elevates the classic, all in a simple one-bowl recipe that’s easy to whip up anytime.

Sourdough Lemon Balm Sheet Cake

A bright and refreshing twist on a classic, Sourdough Lemon Balm Sheet Cake brings zesty flavor and subtle sourdough depth to your dessert table. Its light texture and herbal citrus notes make it a standout treat, especially for warm-weather gatherings. This one’s sure to be a seasonal favorite for picnics and beyond.

Sourdough Discard Poppy Seed Muffins

These Sourdough Discard Poppy Seed Muffins have a tender crumb with a light lemon flavor and a subtle tang from the discard. Their moist, delicate texture makes them a perfect breakfast or snack option. Quick and easy to make, they’re a great way to use up leftover sourdough discard.

Sourdough Discard Key Lime Ricotta Cookies

These Sourdough Discard Key Lime Ricotta Cookies have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture with bright citrus flavor. The ricotta adds a creamy richness, while the sourdough discard brings a gentle tang. Finished with a sweet and zesty lime glaze, they’re perfect for snacks, brunch, or dessert.

Sourdough Hot Dog Buns with Tangzhong

For ultra-soft Sourdough Hot Dog Buns perfect for summer grilling or family dinners, this recipe is a favorite. The secret is tangzhong—a Japanese method that turns flour and milk into a paste to lock in moisture. The result is fluffy, pillowy buns that stay moist and sturdy enough to hold any filling, from hot dogs to pulled pork.

Sourdough Blueberry Bagels with Frozen Blueberries

These Sourdough Blueberry Bagels stand out for their chewy New York-style texture made easy with frozen blueberries and a naturally fermented sourdough starter. This recipe delivers a homemade, yeast-free bagel that’s flavorful and perfectly chewy every time.

Sundried Tomato Sourdough Bagels with Olive Oil

The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and olive oil gives these bagels a rich, savory flavor. Sundried Tomato Sourdough Bagels with Olive Oil have a chewy texture and a tasty, Mediterranean twist. They are easy to make and perfect for a flavorful snack or breakfast.

Soft Sourdough Sandwich Rolls Recipe (No Yeast)

Soft Sourdough Sandwich Rolls offer a light, airy texture with the unique flavor of sourdough. They’re tender and perfect for making delicious sandwiches that hold up well to any filling.

Sourdough Pizza Crust

Here’s my step-by-step guide for making the perfect crispy and chewy sourdough pizza at home. This simple Sourdough Pizza Crust comes together easily in a stand mixer, or you can mix it up by hand. I’ll walk you through the steps so you can enjoy a molten cheesy pizza night.