Beginner Sweet Sourdough

Name: Beginner Sweet Sourdough
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1 cup warm water; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love experimenting with sourdough, and this Beginner Sweet Sourdough recipe has become one of my favorites. It's a perfect introduction to the world of sourdough baking, combining the characteristic tang with just the right amount of sweetness. The aroma that fills my kitchen while it's baking is absolutely heavenly, and the texture is both soft and slightly chewy. This bread is fantastic for breakfast or as a delightful snack, and I can't wait to share this simple yet effective recipe with you!

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:04:16.187Z

While perfecting my sourdough technique, I discovered that adding a touch of sweetness can transform a traditional loaf into something truly special. The balance between the tangy flavor of the sourdough starter and the delightful sweetness makes every bite a little celebration. I often serve it with butter or jam, but trust me, it’s delicious on its own too!

Another aspect I love about this recipe is the long fermentation time. It allows for deep flavor development while also ensuring that the bread maintains a wonderful structure. Just be patient and you'll be rewarded with a soft, airy interior and a beautiful crust that is hard to resist.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Soft texture with a perfectly crisp crust
Great for breakfast or an afternoon treat

      

Understanding Sweet Sourdough

Sweet sourdough is a delightful twist on traditional sourdough bread, harmonizing sweetness with the signature tanginess of sourdough. This unique flavor profile is created by adding sugar during the dough preparation, which enhances the fermentation process and brings out caramel notes during baking. It’s important to use a well-fed, active sourdough starter to ensure the yeast is lively enough to create a fluffy texture while balancing the sweetness.

The combination of sugar and sourdough culture can yield a beautifully golden crust with a slightly chewy interior. As the bread bakes, the sugars caramelize, producing those warm, enticing aromas that make this loaf irresistible. Keep an eye on the color of the crust; you'll want it to be a rich golden brown, indicating it’s fully baked and ready for slicing.

Key Techniques for Success

Kneading is a crucial step in developing the gluten structure that gives the bread its delightful texture. Aim for a smooth and elastic dough by kneading for about 10 minutes. If your dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it—too much flour can lead to dry bread. You’ll know the dough is ready when it springs back after gently poking your finger into it.

During the first rise, keep the dough in a warm, draft-free spot. This environment encourages the yeast to work efficiently, doubling in size within approximately 8 hours. If your kitchen is chilly, consider placing the dough in an oven with the light on to create a cozy atmosphere for fermentation. Patience during this rise is key to achieving an airy loaf with the right crumb structure.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 cup active sourdough starter
1 cup warm water
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your own Beginner Sweet Sourdough:

Mixing the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and warm water. Stir in the sugar until dissolved. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing with a spatula or your hands until a rough dough forms.

Kneading

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Incorporate the melted butter during the last few minutes of kneading.

First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 8 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shaping and Second Rise

Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise again for about 2 hours.

Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).

Cooling

Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked bread with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. If you prefer a sweeter loaf, increase the sugar slightly.

Ingredient Variations

While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with bread flour, which has a higher protein content and can contribute to a chewier texture. If you're looking for a whole grain option, consider substituting up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients and a nuttier flavor. Just remember that whole grain may require slight adjustments in hydration due to its absorbency.

For those needing a dairy-free option, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or coconut oil. This swap will maintain a rich flavor without compromising on texture. Additionally, for a vegan version, substitute sugar with coconut sugar or another vegan sweetener, ensuring any additions align with your dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This sweet sourdough bread makes a fantastic make-ahead option. If you want to prepare it in advance, after the first rise, you can refrigerate the shaped loaf. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure it rises properly in the oven.

If you have leftover bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in a sealed bag, where it can keep for up to 3 months. Simply toast the slices directly from the freezer for a delicious, warm treat anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may affect the texture.

→ How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Your starter should double in size within a few hours of feeding and have a pleasant, slightly tangy aroma.

→ How long can I store the bread?

The bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze.

→ Can I make this recipe without a sourdough starter?

This recipe requires a sourdough starter for fermentation and flavor. You cannot substitute it directly with yeast.