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Dorothy Thomas

Simple Sourdough Bread Recipe

A classic, crusty sourdough bread with a soft, airy interior—perfect for beginners! Made with just flour, water, salt, and a bubbly sourdough starter.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 17 hours
Servings: 1 12
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 100g (½ cup) Active sourdough starter
  • 350g (1½ cups) Warm water
  • 500g (4 cups) Bread flour
  • 10g (2 tsp) Salt

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Kitchen scale
  • Banneton (proofing basket) or bowl
  • Dutch oven
  • Parchment paper
  • Razor or sharp knife (for scoring)

Method
 

  1. Add Salt: Sprinkle salt over the dough. Wet your hands and fold it in.
  2. Bulk Ferment: Cover and let rise at room temp for 4–6 hours, folding the dough every 30 mins for the first 2 hours.
  3. Shape: Turn dough onto a floured surface. Shape into a round loaf and place seam-side up in a floured banneton or bowl.
  4. Final Proof: Refrigerate for 8–12 hours (or leave at room temp for 1–2 hours).
  5. Preheat: Place Dutch oven in the oven and preheat to 475°F (245°C) for 30 mins.
  6. Bake: Transfer dough to parchment paper, score the top, and bake covered for 25 mins. Remove lid and bake for 20–25 mins until deep golden.
  7. Cool: Let bread cool on a wire rack for 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

  • Starter Tips: If your starter isn’t doubling in size, it may need more feedings.
  • No Dutch Oven? Use a baking sheet with a steam tray (place ice cubes in a tray below the bread).
  • Storage: Keep wrapped in cloth for 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.