Best Sourdough Bread Recipe

 

Made with an active sourdough starter, pantry staples, and a simple process, this Sourdough Bread recipe is perfect for beginners and first-time bakers. It can be made in a single day or split over two days, and there are no complicated techniques required.

Like most people, bread is the first thing I started making once I had an active sourdough starter. I actually started with sourdough sandwich bread, which is made with sourdough discard and still requires yeast, and sourdough rolls. But then I started a mission to make a classic sourdough bread recipe that uses only sourdough starter (no yeast) and is easy to make.

I’m happy to say I’ve found it. This easy sourdough bread recipe is perfect for beginners because it skips all of the complicated techniques and extra steps found in some recipes. It does still take a good bit of time to make, but about 90% of that is hands-off time. A long rise time is just part of the sourdough experience! I do love that I can prepare this all in one day or start it the night before and still have freshly baked bread for dinner. It’s perfectly dense yet tender, holds up well, and has that signature sourdough flavor. So good!

Why This Is The Best Sourdough Bread Recipe

• Simple process. This sourdough bread recipe is great for beginners because it doesn’t require any complicated techniques or special equipment. All you need is a sourdough starter, water, flour, salt, and a Dutch oven.
• No kneading. Instead of kneading, this bread is made with a simple stretch and fold technique. It’s much easier and faster, and doesn’t require a mixer or lots of effort.
• Works on your schedule. This recipe can be made in one day or spread across two days because the bulk fermentation (first rise) can be done in several hours at room temperature or overnight in the fridge. I include a few timeline examples to show you how you can fit the process into your dough.

What Is Sourdough Bread?

Sourdough bread is simply bread made with an active sourdough starter instead of packaged yeast. The starter acts as the leavening agent and adds the signature tangy sourdough flavor.

Key Ingredients

This beginner sourdough bread recipe is made with just a sourdough starter and three other very basic ingredients. Be sure to check the recipe card at the end of the post for the exact measurements.

• Flour – Flour gives the bread structure, holds gas from fermentation, and determines your texture. Bread flour is the best option as it’s higher in protein and gives the bread the best structure and rise. However, all-purpose flour also works and gives you a slightly softer crumb. For a heartier loaf, use up to 20-30% whole wheat flour or a blend of all-purpose/bread flour and whole wheat for flavor and structure.
• Water – Water hydrates the flour and allows gluten to develop. It also controls how open or tight your crumb is. Warmer water speeds up fermentation and cooler water slows it down. You can reduce water slightly if the dough feels too sticky (especially when starting out).
• Sourdough starter – It is a natural leavening agent. It makes the bread rise and gives it a tang. A strong starter creates air pockets, adds flavor, and drives fermentation. You can make your own starter in about a week or buy one.
• Salt – Salt strengthens gluten, controls fermentation, and enhances flavor. Without it, your bread will taste flat and ferment really quickly. Fine sea salt or kosher salt both work.

• How Do I Know If My Sourdough Starter Is Ready To Use?

  A strong starter is key to this recipe. It should be doubling in size regularly, usually within 8-12 hours of being fed. If it’s been a while since you’ve fed it, especially if stored in the fridge, you may want to feed it twice a day for 2 days or so before beginning this recipe. A starter that isn’t fully active will result in dense bread that doesn’t rise properly.

  How To Make Sourdough Bread

  This recipe works great for beginners because it requires no kneading and can be done in a single day or across 2-3 days. The printable instructions can be found in the recipe card below.

  

  

  

  • Make the dough. Add the sourdough starter and water in a bowl. Whisk until it appears milky, then add the flour. Mix until everything is combined. It will look shaggy and messy.