Sweet Sourdough Bread Recipe
Sweet sourdough bread combines the tangy depth of traditional sourdough with a delightful sweetness that makes it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even desserts. This recipe delivers a perfectly balanced loaf with a soft, slightly chewy interior and a golden, crisp crust.
Why Make Sweet Sourdough Bread?
- Natural Fermentation: Sourdough uses wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria for natural leavening, enhancing digestion and flavor.
- Rich, Complex Taste: The combination of sweetness and sourdough’s signature tang creates a unique flavor profile.
- Longer Freshness: Thanks to natural fermentation, sourdough bread stays fresh longer than commercial bread.
About the Dough
The dough used to make sweet rolls is similar to brioche dough but not as rich. That means it’s easier to handle by hand compared to a very buttery brioche. It still has eggs and butter for flavor, just less of them. You can use this dough to make fluffy cinnamon rolls, monkey bread, sticky buns, or even fried doughnuts!
This recipe doesn’t use commercial yeast. Instead, you’ll need an active sourdough starter. The starter is fed in a way that makes it thicker (called a stiff starter). Thicker starters take longer to rise, but this slow rise helps the dough grow steadily without over-fermenting.
To prepare the starter, mix it the night before using this ratio: 1 part starter, 2 parts flour, and 1 part water. This will form a firm dough ball. By morning, it should have doubled in size and be ready to use.
If you don’t have a sourdough starter yet, you’ll need to create one first.
Ingredients for Sweet Sourdough Bread
Starter & Dough
- 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter
- 3 ½ cups (420g) bread flour
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar or honey
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp (45g) butter, softened
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Toppings (Optional)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for brushing)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Starter
Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using. Feed it 4-6 hours before baking for the best rise.
2. Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the starter, then gradually mix in the flour, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until manageable.
4. Bulk Fermentation
Cover the dough and let it rise for 8-12 hours at room temperature. It should double in size. If your kitchen is cool, allow a longer rise.
5. Shape the Loaf
Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan or shape it into a round boule for a rustic look.
6. Second Rise
Cover and let it rise again for 2-4 hours until puffy but not overproofed.
7. Bake the Bread
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Brush the crust with honey or maple syrup for added shine and sweetness.
8. Cool & Enjoy
Let the bread cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. This ensures the crumb sets properly.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Sourdough Bread
- Use a mature starter for the best fermentation and rise.
- Control hydration: If using honey instead of sugar, adjust the flour slightly.
- Adjust sweetness by increasing or decreasing sugar/honey.
- Experiment with flavors like orange zest, nutmeg, or cocoa powder for variety.
How to Store Sweet Sourdough Bread
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Not recommended, as it can dry out the bread.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Sweet sourdough bread is a versatile and delicious treat that combines the best of natural fermentation with a touch of sweetness. Try this recipe and enjoy homemade goodness with every bite!
