Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Baking your own Sourdough Sandwich Bread at home is one of those small joys that can transform your kitchen into a cozy haven. The smell of fresh bread wafting through the house is simply unbeatable. This recipe isn’t just about making bread; it’s about crafting something special. Whether you’re layering it up with savory meats or spreading a bit of jam on a warm slice, homemade sourdough brings a unique flavor that’s hard to resist.

The delightful sourness of the bread adds a lovely contrast to your favorite fillings, making every bite something to savor. It’s an adventure where you can express yourself in the kitchen, and trust me, the satisfaction of pulling that golden loaf out of the oven is worth every ounce of effort. So, grab your apron and let’s roll up our sleeves to create something wonderful together!

What is Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Sourdough Sandwich Bread is a type of bread that uses naturally fermented dough, which gives it a characteristic tangy flavor. It differs from regular bread due to the sourdough starter, a mixture of flour and water that has wild yeast and beneficial bacteria. This process not only provides flavor but also enhances the bread’s texture, making it deliciously soft yet slightly chewy—perfect for sandwiches.

While some may think making sourdough requires extensive knowledge or special skills, this recipe makes it accessible and fun. Anyone can master it with a little patience and practice. By following the steps closely, you’ll find that the art of bread-making is not as complicated as it may seem!

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Imagine biting into a slice of freshly baked sourdough, its crust crispy on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside. You’ll appreciate the depth of flavor, which is a masterpiece of both the fermentation process and the ingredients used. Plus, you’ll discover that it’s not just versatile for sandwiches; it’s great toasted for breakfast or served alongside a warm bowl of soup.

This bread is also healthier than many store-bought alternatives since it contains fewer preservatives and can be made with organic ingredients. Homemade sourdough is an incredible way to ensure your family enjoys wholesome meals. Sharing this bread with loved ones creates meaningful moments and cherished memories.

Ingredients for Sourdough Sandwich Bread

To get started on your sourdough journey, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 teaspoons (10 g) sourdough starter
• 3 tablespoons (25 g) all-purpose flour
• 5 teaspoons (25 g) water
• ¼ cup (50 g) active sourdough starter
• 1 cup + 2½ tablespoons (275 g) water
• 4 tablespoons (60 g) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup/sugar)
• 4 cups + 2 tablespoons (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) sea salt

Having these ingredients on hand means you’ll be well on your way to a delicious loaf of sourdough sandwich bread.

Preparing Your Sourdough Sandwich Bread Starter

Feed Your Sourdough Starter

To ensure your bread rises beautifully, feed your sourdough starter 12 hours before you mix your dough. You’ll need:

• 2 teaspoons (10 g) sourdough starter
• 3 tablespoons (25 g) all-purpose flour
• 5 teaspoons (25 g) water

Stir everything together in a clean jar, cover it loosely, and allow it to rise at room temperature, which should be around 68-72°F (20-22°C). You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size!

Mixing the Dough

In the evening, it’s time to mix the dough. Combine the following ingredients in a large mixing bowl:

• ¼ cup (50 g) active sourdough starter
• 1 cup + 2½ tablespoons (275 g) water
• 4 tablespoons (60 g) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 4 cups + 2 tablespoons (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) sea salt

Using a dough whisk or a stiff spatula, mix until everything comes together into a shaggy mess. This part can get a bit sticky, but don’t worry! Cover the bowl and let it rest for about 1 hour. This resting period is essential as it allows the flour to absorb the water.

Kneading and First Rise

After your dough has rested, knead it on low speed with a stand mixer using a dough hook for about 8-10 minutes. If you’d prefer to put in a little elbow grease, you can certainly knead by hand. Once kneaded, cover the bowl and let your dough rise at room temperature for 10-12 hours, or until it has doubled in size. Patience is key here as the slow fermentation enhances the bread’s flavor!

Shaping and Second Rise

Shape Your Dough

The following morning, you’ll find a beautifully risen dough waiting for you. Turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Gently press the dough into a rectangle, making sure the short end is facing you. Now fold the left and right sides into the center. It’s like tucking your dough in for a cozy rest! Then, roll it away from you into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal it well. Place it seam-side down in a lightly greased bread pan, or you can line it with parchment paper. Let it rise until it sits about 1 inch above the rim of the pan, which should take around 2-3 hours.

Baking Your Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Preheat and Bake

Once the dough has risen, it’s baking time! Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Right before baking, carefully transfer the pan into the oven and reduce the temperature down to 375°F (190°C). Bake your bread for about 45-50 minutes until it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. After baking, let your bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

You’ll want to enjoy your Sourdough Sandwich Bread freshly baked, and here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Spread with butter, almond butter, or a favorite jam.
• Layer it with fresh veggies, meats, and cheeses to create delicious sandwiches.

The possibilities are endless, and every bite will be a celebration of your hard work.

Tips for Success

• Make sure your sourdough starter is active prior to starting the recipe for the best results.
• Always keep your dough covered during proofing stages. This helps to prevent it from drying out, which can affect the final texture.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this basic recipe! Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Add herbs or spices for an extra flavor boost.
• Sprinkle seeds like sesame or poppy on top before baking for added texture.

Storage Tips

To keep your homemade bread fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, slice your bread and freeze it. It can last for up to 3 months!

Pairing Ideas

Sourdough Sandwich Bread pairs beautifully with various dishes. For example:

• Serve it alongside creamy soups to soak up every drop.
• Use it to make indulgent French toast or rich bread pudding.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

2. How can I tell if my sourdough starter is ready?
Your starter should be bubbly, doubled in size, and have a pleasant sour smell.

3. Is it necessary to use a stand mixer?
While a stand mixer makes the process easier, you can knead the dough by hand if you prefer.

4. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Check the temperature of your environment and make sure your starter is active. Sometimes, you may just need to give it a bit more time.

5. Can I make this bread recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends, though the texture might vary.

Making Sourdough Sandwich Bread at home not only fills your house with a delightful aroma but also provides a comforting and tasty alternative to store-bought bread. As you enjoy the process of baking, you’ll find that each loaf becomes a little piece of art filled with love. Happy baking, and enjoy every slice!

More Easy Breakfast & Brunch Recipes:

• Potato Au Gratin
• Peanut Butter Banana Bread
• Chicken Sandwiches
• Buttermilk Pancakes

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Sourdough Sandwich Bread offers a deliciously tangy flavor with a crispy crust and a soft interior, making it ideal for sandwiches or as a warm side dish.

• Total Time: 12 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 teaspoons (10 g) sourdough starter
• 3 tablespoons (25 g) all-purpose flour
• 5 teaspoons (25 g) water
• ¼ cup (50 g) active sourdough starter
• 1 cup + 2½ tablespoons (275 g) water
• 4 tablespoons (60 g) olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup/sugar)
• 4 cups + 2 tablespoons (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10 g) sea salt

Instructions

• Feed your sourdough starter 12 hours before mixing the dough.
• Mix active sourdough starter, water, olive oil, honey, all-purpose flour, and salt in a large bowl until shaggy.
• Cover and let rest for 1 hour.
• Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth, then let rise for 10-12 hours until doubled in size.
• Shape the dough and let it rise until it sits 1 inch above the pan rim.
• Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes.

Notes

Ensure your sourdough starter is active for best results.
Cover the dough during proofing to prevent drying out.

• Author: Rachael
• Prep Time: 12 hours
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 0.5
• Sodium: 180
• Fat: 4.5
• Saturated Fat: 0.5
• Unsaturated Fat: 3
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 25
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 4
• Cholesterol: 0