Are you ready to dive into the world of sourdough baking, but not sure where to start? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 favorite fluffy sourdough recipes perfect for beginners. From classic breads and sweet treats to savory snacks and breakfast staples, these recipes will help you get started on your sourdough journey.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, the art of making sourdough is all about patience, practice, and a little bit of magic. And with our easy-to-follow recipes and tips, you’ll be whipping up fluffy sourdough goodies in no time. So grab your mixing bowl, your starter, and let’s get started!
Classic Sourdough Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously tangy and chewy sourdough bread, perfect for sandwiches or toasting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and water. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the flour and salt. 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 in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise at room temperature (68°F – 72°F) for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your 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 the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sourdough Pancakes
Elevate your breakfast game with these fluffy and tangy sourdough pancakes, made using a natural starter culture instead of commercial yeast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (at room temperature)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk, at room temperature
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Flavorings of your choice (e.g., vanilla extract, fruit)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the sourdough starter, milk, egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
3. Let the batter rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the starter to activate.
4. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop the batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Sourdough Pizza Dough
Get ready to elevate your pizza game with this simple recipe for sourdough pizza dough! This naturally leavened dough requires a little patience, but the unique flavor and texture it produces is well worth the wait.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and water. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature (around 70°F to 75°F) for 24 hours.
3. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
4. Punch down the dough, then shape into desired form (e.g., ball, rectangle, etc.).
5. Top with your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with the sweetness of cinnamon rolls, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
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 salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Add sugar, melted butter, egg, and cinnamon. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball and then roll out into a cylinder shape.
7. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each roll.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy your sourdough cinnamon rolls!
Sourdough Focaccia
Get ready to enjoy a delicious and authentic Italian-style bread with this Sourdough Focaccia recipe, perfect for sandwiches or as a side dish. This recipe uses your sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast, giving the focaccia its unique tangy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and bread flour. Mix until just combined.
2. Add salt and mix until well incorporated.
3. Gradually add olive oil while using a wooden spoon or stand mixer to incorporate the dough.
4. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rest at room temperature for 2-3 hours.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Gently shape the dough into a rectangle or circle and place on prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Sourdough Focaccia!
Sourdough Bagels
Elevate your bagel game with this recipe that combines the tanginess of sourdough starter with the chewy texture and crispy crust of traditional bagels. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– Sesame or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, salt, and sugar. Mix until just combined.
2. Add water and mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Shape into 8-10 bagels and place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Proof at room temperature for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Waffles
Start your day with a crispy and deliciously tangy sourdough waffle, perfect for topping with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (at room temperature)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Unsalted butter, melted
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, whisk together sourdough starter, sugar, eggs, and milk until smooth.
4. Add the melted butter and whisk until well combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for 2-3 waffles.
Sourdough Pretzels
Transform your sourdough starter into a delicious batch of soft and buttery pretzels.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons salt
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and warm water. Stir to dissolve any lumps.
2. Add salt and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a long rope and twist into a pretzel shape. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Proof the pretzels at room temperature for 1 hour, or until they have doubled in size.
8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yield: 8-10 pretzels
Sourdough English Muffins
Rise to the occasion with these tangy and crumbly sourdough English muffins, perfect for breakfast or a snack. With a hint of acidity from your sourdough starter, these muffins will transport you back to a bygone era.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Add the sugar and lukewarm water, and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Flatten slightly to form an English muffin shape.
6. Place the muffins on 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 Banana Bread
This moist and delicious bread combines the tanginess of sourdough starter with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, perfect for a snack or breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, mashed bananas, sugar, and flour. Mix until just combined.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sourdough Discard Crackers
Turn your sourdough starter’s discard into crispy, flavorful crackers that are perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter discard (100% hydration)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the sourdough starter discard, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add the water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or strips).
6. Place crackers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious sourdough discard crackers!
Sourdough Garlic Knots
These Sourdough Garlic Knots are a delicious twist on classic garlic knots, using the tangy flavor of sourdough starter to elevate their taste. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these knots are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Add warm water and mix until dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out dough into a long rope. Cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a knot, tucking ends under to secure.
7. Place knots on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each knot.
8. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic and Parmesan cheese (if using).
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Dinner Rolls
Elevate your dinner table with these tender and flavorful sourdough dinner rolls, infused with the tanginess of your own sourdough starter. Perfect for accompanying your favorite roast or soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, salt, and sugar. Mix until just combined.
2. Add melted butter and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Form into balls or desired shape.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Chocolate Cake
Moist and flavorful, this sourdough chocolate cake is a game-changer for anyone who loves rich, dark chocolate. The tangy kick from the sourdough starter adds depth and complexity to the classic chocolate cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sourdough starter, whole wheat flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in vanilla extract.
4. Melt butter and whisk it into the batter until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sourdough Blueberry Muffins
These sweet and tangy muffins combine the natural acidity of sourdough starter with the sweetness of fresh blueberries, resulting in a delicious breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Salt to taste
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. In a separate bowl, whisk together sourdough starter, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sourdough Cornbread
Rich and crumbly sourdough cornbread infused with the warmth of cornmeal and the tanginess of a natural starter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (at peak strength)
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, and salt.
3. Add sourdough starter, honey or sugar, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sourdough Apple Fritters
Sourdough Apple Fritters Recipe
These sweet and crispy fritters are infused with the tangy flavor of sourdough starter and the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a fall treat or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or other firm variety)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sourdough starter, flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until smooth.
3. Fold in 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 batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Flatbread
Discover the simplicity of homemade flatbread with a tangy twist! This Sourdough Flatbread recipe yields a crispy, slightly sour crust and a tender interior that’s perfect for snacking or as a base for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
3. Add olive oil and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal pieces, depending on desired thickness.
6. Roll out each piece to your desired thickness (about 1/8 inch).
7. Place flatbreads on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sourdough Donuts
Rise to the occasion with these tangy and tender sourdough donuts, infused with the natural yeast of your starter culture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add milk and melted butter; mix until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture and let it rest at room temperature for 4-6 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Using a piping bag or spoon, drop donut batter into hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
6. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the size of your donuts)
Enjoy your delicious sourdough donuts!
Sourdough Cheese Bread
This recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough with the creaminess of melted cheese, resulting in a rich and satisfying loaf perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, salt, and sugar. Mix until just combined.
3. Add 1/4 cup of grated cheese and mix until well distributed.
4. Gradually add water, mixing until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
5. Knead for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 2 hours.
6. Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place in prepared pan.
7. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of sourdough baking with these 20 easy and delicious recipes, perfect for beginners! From classic bread to sweet treats like cinnamon rolls and donuts, this collection has something for everyone. Learn how to make fluffy sourdough pancakes, pizza dough, and more using your very own sourdough starter. Perfect for adventurous cooks looking to take their baking skills to the next level.
