Classic Sourdough Bread With Starters

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If you’ve ever sliced into a golden, crusty loaf of sourdough and admired the tangy aroma and bubbly crumb, you know the magic of homemade sourdough bread. This rustic beauty isn’t just bread—it’s a lifestyle, a practice in patience, and a celebration of fermentation. Made with a bubbly starter, this sourdough boasts a caramelized crust, soft chewy center, and that signature tang that store-bought loaves just can’t match.

The best part? Once you master the rhythm of sourdough baking, you’ll find it’s easier and more forgiving than you thought. Whether you love slathering slices in butter, building artisan sandwiches, or simply enjoying a hunk fresh from the oven, this recipe will become a weekly staple.

What Kind of Flour Should I Use for Sourdough?

A blend of bread flour and whole wheat flour creates the perfect structure and flavor. Bread flour offers high protein for good gluten development, while a touch of whole wheat adds depth. You can experiment with rye or spelt too, just adjust hydration accordingly.

Ingredients for the Classic Sourdough Bread With Starters

Bread Flour
Gives the dough strength and elasticity for that classic chewy texture and open crumb.

Whole Wheat Flour
Adds a slightly nutty flavor and improves fermentation thanks to its natural nutrients.

Sourdough Starter
The heart of the bread! A well-fed starter introduces wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria for rise and flavor.

Water
Hydrates the dough, activates gluten development, and ensures the right consistency.

Salt
Strengthens the gluten structure and enhances the final flavor.

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How To Make the Classic Sourdough Bread With Starters

Step 1: Feed and Activate Your Starter

Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active. Feed it 4-6 hours before mixing your dough. It should double in size and pass the float test.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine 500g bread flour, 100g whole wheat flour, and 375g water. Mix until just combined and let it rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Add Starter and Salt

Add 100g active sourdough starter and 10g salt. Use a wet hand to pinch and fold the dough until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Bulk Fermentation with Stretch and Folds

Cover and let rest at room temp for 4-6 hours. Every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours, perform stretch-and-folds to develop structure.

Step 5: Shape and Cold Proof

Turn the dough out, shape it into a tight boule or batard, and place into a floured banneton. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours).

Step 6: Score and Bake

Preheat your oven to 475°F with a Dutch oven inside. Turn out the dough onto parchment, score with a lame, and bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 25-30 minutes.

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How to Serve and Store Sourdough Bread

Let the sourdough cool completely before slicing to preserve its crumb structure. Serve with soft butter, homemade jam, or alongside soup and salad. It also makes excellent toast and sandwiches.

To store, wrap in a clean kitchen towel or place in a bread box. For longer storage, slice and freeze. Toast straight from the freezer!

What to Serve With Classic Sourdough Bread?

Creamy Soups

Pair with bowls of Cheeseburger Soup or Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for cozy comfort meals.

Savory Spreads

Enjoy with Shrimp Butter Spread or herbed cream cheese for brunch-worthy bites.

Rustic Breakfasts

Top with smashed avocado, poached eggs, or jam for quick breakfast ideas packed with nutrition.

Hearty Dinners

Serve alongside Crispy Chicken Fried Chicken or Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy for a comforting plate.

Sweet Pairings

Try with Gooey Cinnamon Cream Cheese Muffins or fruit preserves for a balanced snack.

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Want More Bread Ideas with Character?

If you’re hooked on baking with starters, you’ll love diving into more of these soul-warming recipes:

• Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia Recipe — airy, olive-oil kissed goodness.
• Apple Fritter Bread Recipe — a sweet, cinnamon-speckled indulgence.
• Cranberry Orange Bread with Simple Glaze — tangy and festive.
• Classic Vanilla Fudge — perfect for gifting alongside bread baskets.
• Creamy Crab Pasta Salad — pairs well with a thick sourdough slice.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this beautiful artisan loaf to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always within reach when the craving for homemade bread hits.

Tried a twist? Maybe you swapped flours or added seeds? Tell me how it turned out in the comments below!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite recipe is waiting!

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