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Dorothy Thomas

Beginner Sourdough Bread Recipe

A simple, no-fuss sourdough bread recipe perfect for beginners. This recipe yields a flavorful, slightly tangy loaf with a crisp crust and soft, airy interior—no commercial yeast required!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 1 12
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 100g (½ cup) Active sourdough starter
  • 400g (3 ¼ cups) Bread flour
  • 50g (⅓ cup) Whole wheat flour
  • 300g (1 ¼ cups) Water (room temp)
  • 8g (1 ½ tsp) Salt

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Kitchen scale (recommended for accuracy)
  • Banneton proofing basket (optional)
  • Dutch oven or heavy baking pot
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, water, flours, and salt. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Rest (Autolyse): Cover with a damp towel and let sit for 30 minutes to hydrate the flour.
  3. Stretch & Fold: Every 30 minutes for 2 hours, wet your hands and stretch the dough upward, then fold it over itself (4 folds per session).
  4. First Rise: Let the dough ferment at room temperature for 6-12 hours (or until doubled in size).
  5. Pre-shape: Turn the dough onto a floured surface, gently shape into a round, and rest for 20 minutes.
  6. Final Shape: Tighten the dough into a boule (round) or batard (oval). Place seam-side up in a floured banneton or bowl lined with a towel.
  7. Second Rise: Refrigerate for 12-24 hours (cold proof) OR proof at room temp for 1-2 hours.
  8. Preheat: Place a Dutch oven in the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C) for 30 minutes.
  9. Score & Bake: Turn the dough onto parchment paper, slash the top with a razor, and transfer to the Dutch oven. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 20 minutes until deep golden brown.
  10. Cool: Let the bread rest on a wire rack for 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

  • Starter Readiness: Your starter should float in water before use.
  • No Dutch Oven? Use a baking stone or sheet pan with steam (place a tray of water below).
  • Storage: Keep in a paper bag for 2 days or freeze for longer storage.