Noncontrolling Interest (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Net loss attributable to BioFuel Energy Corp.	$ (4,124)	$ (10,582)	$ (8,759)	$ (19,990)
Increase in BioFuel Energy Corp. stockholder's equity from issuance of common shares in exchange for Class B common shares and units of BioFuel Energy, LLC	0	46	0	46
Change in equity from net loss attributable to BioFuel Energy Corp. and transfers from noncontrolling interest	$ (4,124)	$ (10,536)	$ (8,759)	$ (19,944)