Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread

Name: Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly; 1 cup warm water; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love baking bread, and there's something inherently satisfying about making sourdough. This Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread became a favorite in my household, especially with its delightful hint of sweetness that makes every slice a treat. The process might seem intimidating, but trust me, it's quite approachable! Using a sourdough starter gives this bread its unique flavor while adding a comforting aroma to my kitchen. I recommend trying it warm, slathered with butter for a truly indulgent experience.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:52:22.157Z

I remember the first time I made this sourdough bread. The enticing smell of freshly baked bread wafted through my home, and my family gathered around the kitchen, eager to taste it. It turned out beautifully golden and slightly sweet—perfect for breakfast or a snack. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare!

What I found particularly effective was the long fermentation time, which not only enhances the flavor but makes the bread so light and airy. I usually prepare the dough the night before, letting it rise slowly in the fridge. The next morning, I shape it and bake—it's that simple!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously sweet flavor that appeals to everyone
Chewy crust with a soft and airy crumb
Easy to make at home with minimal ingredients

      

Understanding Sourdough Starter

The key to a successful Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread lies in the health and activity of your sourdough starter. An active starter should be bubbly and have a pleasant, mildly tangy aroma. If your starter has been stored in the refrigerator, feed it at least 4-6 hours before starting the bread, allowing it to become bubbly and vigorous. This will ensure that your bread rises well and develops a depth of flavor.

If you find yourself without a starter, you can make a quick version by mixing equal parts flour and water. Allow this mixture to sit at room temperature for 24 hours, feeding it additional flour and water every few hours. While this method may not yield the same depth of flavor as a mature starter, it can still produce decent results in a pinch.

Kneading Techniques for Best Results

Kneading is essential in developing the gluten structure, which gives bread its chewy texture. When kneading your dough, make sure not to overdo it—aim for a smooth and elastic texture without it becoming too sticky. If you find the dough is too tacky, a light dusting of flour on your hands or kneading surface can help prevent sticking, but be cautious not to add too much, as this could alter the dough's hydration level.

A great technique I recommend is the stretch and fold method. Instead of traditional kneading, gently stretch the dough, then fold it over onto itself. Rotate and repeat until the dough becomes elastic and smooth. This method requires less effort and can also enhance the airiness of your bread.

Perfecting Your Baking Environment

Creating the ideal environment for your bread to rise is crucial. A warm, draft-free space is preferred, as yeast works best in temperatures between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C). If your kitchen is chilly, you can create warmth by preheating your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turning it off. Place your covered dough inside to rise without the cold air affecting it.

Additionally, consider using a baking stone or Dutch oven for baking your bread. Both retain heat well, helping to create a nice crust while keeping the interior moist. If using a Dutch oven, remember to preheat it as you warm the oven; this will aid in achieving that perfect golden crust.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start your sourdough journey:

Ingredients

1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
1 cup warm water
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread:

Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and warm water until smooth. Gradually add the flour, sugar, and salt, mixing until a rough dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, adding olive oil gradually. The dough should be smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 6 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Bread

Punch down the dough gently and turn it onto a floured surface. Shape into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.

Second Rise

Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 2 hours or until puffy.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 45 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade bread with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your sourdough starter is fed and bubbly before using. Experiment with adding nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread shines when served fresh and warm, but it's surprisingly versatile. For breakfast, I love to spread a generous amount of butter over a warm slice, allowing it to melt into the soft crumb. You can also top it with fruit preserves or honey to enhance its sweetness—a treat for any morning table.

For a more indulgent dessert, consider using it as the base for French toast. Dip slices into a mixture of eggs, milk, cinnamon, and sugar, then cook them on a hot griddle. The slight sweetness of the bread combined with the eggy custard creates an indulgent breakfast or brunch dish that everyone will love.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread, store it wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the whole loaf or individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer bag—this will prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen bread, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. For an extra touch, pop it in a warm oven (around 350°F or 175°C) for a few minutes to revive its crust and crumb texture before serving.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your bread hasn’t risen as expected after the first rise, it may be due to an inactive sourdough starter. Testing your starter's activity is crucial before starting. If it doesn't bubble up within a few hours after feeding, it may need a refresh. In future batches, adjust the hydration of your dough slightly if it feels too sticky or too dry—this can vary based on your flour and humidity levels.

Another common issue is overbaking, which results in a dry loaf. Check for doneness by tapping the bottom of the bread; it should sound hollow. Aiming for a golden-brown crust can also prevent overdrying. Adjust your baking time as needed, especially if you’re using different-sized pans or altitudes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works well, but the texture might be slightly different.

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

Your starter should double in size within a few hours after feeding and have a pleasant, tangy smell.

→ Can I refrigerate the dough overnight?

Absolutely! Refrigerating the dough can enhance the flavor and make it even better.

→ What should I do if the dough doesn't rise?

Check that your starter is active and the temperature is warm enough. If it's too cool, the rising may be slow.