Are you ready to take your baking game to the next level with the tangy, slightly sour flavor of homemade sourdough? Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this list of 18 fluffy sourdough recipes for beginners has got you covered. From classic breads and sweet treats to savory pastries and indulgent desserts, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating your own sourdough starter and using it to make a wide variety of delicious baked goods.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of sourdough baking and provide you with the confidence and skills needed to create your own signature sourdough creations. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to dive into the wonderful world of sourdough!
Classic Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread has a unique flavor and texture that’s achieved through the natural process of fermentation using wild yeast and bacteria. This recipe yields a crusty, chewy loaf with a tangy sourdough taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F/32°C)
– 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sourdough starter. Mix until dissolved.
2. Add bread flour one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until just combined (5-7 minutes).
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let ferment at room temperature (around 70°F/21°C) for 4-6 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
6. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sourdough Pancakes
Start your day with a stack of fluffy, tangy sourdough pancakes, infused with the unique flavor and texture of a natural starter culture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough starter, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk until smooth.
3. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the pan.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on thickness of pancakes)
Sourdough Pizza Dough
This recipe yields a flavorful and tangy sourdough pizza dough that’s perfect for homemade pizzas. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying your own delicious pies in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F to 100°F)
– 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (at room temperature)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sourdough starter. Mix until fully incorporated.
2. Add the bread flour and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rest at room temperature (around 70°F to 75°F) for 2 hours.
5. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
6. Punch down the dough, shape into your desired pizza shape, and top as desired.
Cooking Time:
– Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and toppings are cooked through.
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Elevate your cinnamon roll game with the tangy, chewy goodness of sourdough! This recipe combines the natural fermentation process of sourdough starter with the warmth and comfort of classic cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and cinnamon. Mix until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Spread with butter and sprinkle with cinnamon.
5. Roll up tightly, cut into 8 equal pieces, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Let rise at room temperature for 2 hours, or until puffed.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Focaccia
Transform your sourdough starter into a delicious Italian-style flatbread with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Coarse sea salt, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and flour. Mix until just combined, then add salt and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet, shape into a rectangle or oval, and dimple with your fingers.
5. Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the top (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the focaccia is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Bagels
Bring a touch of tanginess and chewiness to your breakfast routine with these delicious sourdough bagels, made with a natural starter culture instead of commercial yeast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and ripe)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup water
– Sesame or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, salt, and sugar. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add water while mixing until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
5. Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then use your thumbs to create a hole in the center, stretching the dough outward to form a bagel shape.
6. Place bagels onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Sourdough Pretzels
Transform your sourdough starter into a delicious and addictive snack with these simple pretzels. Perfect for munching on while enjoying the company of friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sourdough starter. Mix until smooth.
2. Add flour, one cup at a time, until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into a pretzel shape. Place on prepared baking sheets.
7. Brush melted butter onto the pretzels and sprinkle with sesame seeds or pretzel salt if desired.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sourdough English Muffins
Start your day with a tangy, crumbly delight by baking these Sourdough English Muffins using your trusty sourdough starter. These moist and flavorful treats are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Add sugar, egg, and buttermilk. Mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into an English muffin shape.
6. Place the muffins onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Waffles
Elevate your breakfast game with this recipe that combines the tanginess of sourdough starter with the crispy, fluffy texture of waffles. The result is a unique and delicious treat that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (at room temperature)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sourdough starter, eggs, milk, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on your waffle iron’s heat and size.
Sourdough Banana Bread
Moist and flavorful, this Sourdough Banana Bread recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough starter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Perfect for a breakfast treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, mashed bananas, whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda. Mix until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let cool on wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Sourdough Chocolate Cake
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and moist sourdough chocolate cake, featuring a tangy twist from the fermented starter. This indulgent dessert is perfect for special occasions or cozy night-ins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sourdough starter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sourdough Biscuits
These tender and flavorful biscuits are a perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, stews, or breakfast dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, flour, sugar, and salt until just combined.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it comes together in a cohesive mass.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Sourdough Cornbread
This Sourdough Cornbread recipe combines the tangy flavor of sourdough starter with the sweetness of corn, resulting in a moist and flavorful bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Honey or maple syrup to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add sourdough starter, melted butter, egg, and honey or maple syrup. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sourdough Garlic Knots
Elevate your snack game with these addictive sourdough garlic knots, perfect for any gathering or just because. With a hint of tanginess from the sourdough starter and a pungent kick from the garlic, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and warm water. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, then shape into 8-10 knots.
4. Place knots on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each knot.
5. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, and drizzle with egg wash (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Sourdough Dinner Rolls Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your dinner table with these tender and flavorful sourdough dinner rolls, infused with the tangy zip of a natural starter culture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water (around 90°F to 95°F)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, flours, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add the sugar and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise at room temperature (around 70°F to 75°F) for about 2 hours, or until almost doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Shape each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into disk shapes. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sourdough Blueberry Muffins
Elevate your breakfast game with these tangy and sweet sourdough blueberry muffins, bursting with fresh flavor from the natural yeast fermentation process.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
4. Fold in sourdough starter until smooth.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Apple Fritters
Sourdough Apple Fritters Recipe
These tender and crispy fritters combine the natural tang of sourdough with the sweetness of apples, creating a delightful autumn treat. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other sweet-tart variety)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough starter, flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
3. Fold in the diced apples.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
7. Remove fritters from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sourdough Donuts
These Sourdough Donuts are a game-changer – with the tangy flavor of sourdough, they’re a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar or glaze of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and flour. Mix until just combined.
2. Add sugar, salt, and milk. Mix until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture and let it rest at room temperature for 2 hours.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
5. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
6. Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove donuts from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar or top with your favorite glaze.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total (2 hours resting time)
Summary
Get started with the art of sourdough baking! This collection of 18 recipes is perfect for beginners, covering a range from classic bread to sweet treats and savory delights. From fluffy pancakes and pizza dough to cinnamon rolls and chocolate cake, these sourdough recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With simple instructions and tips for maintaining your starter, you’ll be whipping up delicious bakes in no time.