Easy Sourdough Bread Recipes

Try these easy sourdough bread recipes to bake fresh and delicious loaves of homemade goodness.

We live in a world where fast food and instant gratification often take center stage. But the timeless art of using easy sourdough bread recipes beckons us to slow down. Baking fresh bread helps us connect with our roots and savor life’s simple pleasures. The world of homemade bread begins a culinary journey that has been cherished by generations.

Home-baked sourdough bread transcends cultures and continents. Join us as we embark on a journey that delves into the heart and soul of sourdough bread. We will reveal its rich history, demystifying its intricate process.

Want recipes? We’ve got delectable and easy sourdough bread recipes that will inspire your own sourdough baking adventures.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, it’s time to venture into the captivating world of sourdough. You will gain the knowledge and confidence to create your own perfect loaf of artisanal bread.

So, roll up your sleeves, dust off your apron, and get ready to discover the magic of easy sourdough bread recipes.

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Now, let’s learn more about sourdough bread and check out some of our favorite sourdough baking recipes.

The History of Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread, with its rustic crust and tangy flavor, has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world for centuries. It stands as a testament to the ancient art of bread-making, an art that has been handed down through generations, transcending borders and cultures.

The history of sourdough bread and easy sourdough bread recipes begins long before commercial yeast was readily available. It was born out of necessity as early humans discovered the magical transformation of dough through the process of fermentation. This discovery probably took place around 6,000 BCE in ancient Egypt or Mesopotamia. In that climate, wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria naturally fermented the dough, creating the characteristic sour taste.

Sourdough Goes Global

As civilization spread, so did sourdough bread. It became a staple in various ancient cultures, from the Greeks and Romans in Europe to the Chinese and Egyptians in the East. The sourdough starter was a mixture of flour and water teeming with wild yeast and beneficial bacteria. This allowed people to bake bread long before commercial yeast became available.

During the Gold Rush in the 19th century, sourdough bread helped sustain miners and settlers in the American West. These pioneers treasured their sourdough starters as precious commodities, even passing them down as family heirlooms.

Sourdough bread became an essential part of military rations during both World War I and World War II. Its longevity, nutritional value, and resistance to spoilage made it an ideal choice for soldiers in the field. Soldiers often kept their sourdough starters close, nurturing them as a symbol of comfort and continuity in times of turmoil.

Modern Resurgence of Easy Sourdough Bread Recipes

While commercial yeast gained popularity in the 20th century for its convenience, sourdough never truly faded away. Now there is been a resurgence of interest in traditional baking methods, driven by a desire for healthier, more authentic foods. Sourdough has experienced a renaissance, with artisanal bakeries and home bakers alike embracing the age-old techniques of sourdough fermentation.

Sourdough bread has made a fascinating journey through time and culture. This wholesome bread remains a cherished symbol of our shared culinary history.

At Home Garden and Homestead, we welcome you to the world of bread baking with these easy sourdough bread recipes. We’ve even included recipes for sourdough pizza crust, sourdough cinnamon rolls, and more.

So, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start baking!

Easy Sourdough Bread Recipes—and More!

Hopefully, you have already purchased a Sourdough Bread Kit from the Home Garden and Homestead store on Amazon. If not, order your kit here. Then, choose a sourdough recipe and let’s get started!

 Classic Sourdough Bread with Rosemary

Let’s begin our easy sourdough bread recipes the the classic loaf that is made special by adding crushed rosemary to give the bread an Italian flavor!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 Tablespoons crushed rosemary

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flour, and water. Mix until it forms a shaggy dough.
2. Add salt and knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 4-6 hours or until doubled in size. Sprinkle crushed rosemary over top.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Shape the dough into a round boule and place it in a lightly floured proofing basket.
5. Allow the dough to rise for another 1-2 hours. Transfer it to a preheated Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, then 15 minutes with the lid off until golden brown.

 Whole Wheat Sourdough Bread

For those of you who want to embrace a healthier diet, this sourdough bread recipes like this one include some whole wheat flour to give the finished loaf a darker color.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups active sourdough starter
• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups lukewarm water
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Mix the sourdough starter, flours, and water until a sticky dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Add salt and knead for 10-15 minutes until the dough is smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 6-8 hours.
3. Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan. Allow it to rise for another 2-3 hours.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Sourdough Pizza Crust

Easy sourdough bread recipes for pizza crust, too? Yes indeed!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup lukewarm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Mix the sourdough starter, flour, water, and salt to form a dough. Knead until smooth, then let it rise for 4-6 hours.
2. Divide the dough into pizza-sized portions. Roll them out on a floured surface.
3. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Place the rolled-out dough on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
4. Brush the crust with olive oil and add your favorite toppings. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Sourdough bread recipes also include dinner rolls and breakfast cinnamon rolls! Follow this recipe to turn your sourdough starter into a delicious batch of cinnamon rolls with a “secret” ingredient.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup lukewarm milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Mix the sourdough starter, flour, milk, butter, sugar, and salt to form a soft dough. Knead for 8-10 minutes.
2. Let the dough rise for 2-3 hours. Roll it out into a rectangle, spread butter, sprinkle sugar, and cinnamon, then roll it up.
3. Cut into slices and place in a greased baking pan. Allow them to rise for an additional 1-2 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

 Sourdough Pancakes

Here’s one of our favorite sourdough bread recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add melted butter and milk. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.
3. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup portions of batter onto the griddle. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

Gluten-Free Sourdough

Yes, you can bake delicious gluten-free sourdough bread. The key is to use gluten-free sourdough starter.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup gluten-free sourdough starter
• 2 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
• 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Mix the gluten-free sourdough starter, gluten-free flour, and lukewarm water until a sticky dough forms. Allow it to rest for 30 minutes.
2. Add salt and knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 6-8 hours.
3. Shape the dough into a round boule and place it in a lightly floured gluten-free proofing basket. Allow it to rise for another 1-2 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Transfer the dough to a preheated Dutch oven and bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, then 15 minutes with the lid off until golden brown.

Gluten-Free Sourdough Pancakes

After you have a gluten-free sourdough starter (see above recipe), you are not limited to making just gluten-free sourdough bread. Easy sourdough bread recipes also include pancakes!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup gluten-free sourdough starter
• 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 cup dairy-free milk (almond, coconut, or any non-dairy milk)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine gluten-free sourdough starter, gluten-free flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add melted butter and dairy-free milk. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.
3. Let the batter rest for 10-15 minutes. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour 1/4 cup portions of batter onto the griddle. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

Editor’s Note: Make sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients to ensure the recipes are truly gluten-free. Adjustments may be needed based on the specific gluten-free flour blend you use. Enjoy your gluten-free easy sourdough bread recipes and creations!

Final Thoughts on Easy Sourdough Bread Recipes

Embrace the world of baking sourdough bread and other delicious sourdough delights! Don’t be afraid to experiment with new recipes. And feel free to create your own recipes to further enjoy making and baking fresh bread and other baked goods at your home or homestead!

Are you a fan of homemade pies? Read How to Make Never-Fail Homemade Pie Crust and you’re one step closer to making the world’s best apple pie!