Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crusty Homemade Sourdough Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 43 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 15 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This classic Sourdough Bread features a crisp golden crust and a soft, chewy interior with a subtle tangy flavor. Made with an active sourdough starter, it’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter.

Ingredients

Starter and Dough

  • ½ cup active sourdough starter
  • 1½ cups warm water
  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Mix Starter and Water: In a large bowl, combine the active sourdough starter with warm water until evenly mixed.
  2. Add Flour: Add the bread flour to the mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms with no dry flour remaining.
  3. Autolyse Rest: Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 30 minutes to hydrate and start gluten development.
  4. Add Salt and Knead: Incorporate the salt into the dough and knead gently until it is fully mixed in.
  5. Bulk Fermentation with Stretch-and-Fold: Cover the dough and let it rise for 4 to 6 hours at room temperature, performing stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes during the first 2 hours to build structure.
  6. Shape the Loaf: After fermentation, shape the dough into a round loaf, tightening the surface to create good tension.
  7. Proof in Basket: Place the shaped dough into a floured proofing basket and refrigerate overnight for a slow cold proof.
  8. Preheat Oven and Dutch Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) along with a Dutch oven placed inside to ensure it is thoroughly heated.
  9. Score and Bake Covered: Transfer the dough onto parchment paper, score the top with a sharp blade to allow expansion, and carefully place it into the hot Dutch oven. Bake covered for 25 minutes to trap steam.
  10. Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown and crisp.
  11. Cool Completely: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool fully on a wire rack to set the crumb and develop flavor before slicing.

Notes

  • Use an active, bubbly sourdough starter to ensure the best rise and fermentation.
  • Cooling the bread fully before slicing helps develop flavor and maintain texture.
  • Store the bread at room temperature in a paper bag or bread box for up to 3 days to preserve freshness.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: European

Find it online: https://sarasplate.com/crusty-homemade-sourdough-bread-recipe/