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EatYay Kitchen Tested Recipe

Soft Easy Sourdough Bread

Craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? This Soft Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe brings the charm of artisanal baking straight to your kitchen. With a tender crumb, a slightly tangy flavor, and a golden crust, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply

Prep Time 15m
Cook Time 25m
Total Time 40m
Yield 4 servings
Soft Easy Sourdough Bread

Ingredients

Main Ingredients
  • □ 500 g 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
  • □ 60 g 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened and cut into cubes
  • □ 12 g 12 g (1 tbsp) sugar
  • □ 9 g 9 g fine sea salt
  • □ 50 g 50 g (1/4 cup) bubbly, active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
  • □ 270 g 270 g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) warm water
Main Ingredients
  • □ 1 First, I combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Then I add the sourdough starter and warm water, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Once all ingredients come together, I fold in the softened butter gradually. The dough should feel elastic but slightly tacky—this is what creates a soft crumb later.

Instructions

  1. The key to soft, flavorful sourdough bread lies in the dough preparation. Here’s how I make mine step by step.

  2. Proper shaping ensures an even rise and a beautiful crust. Here’s my method:

  3. Deflate the Dough Gently: After bulk fermentation, I turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently press it down to release air.

  4. Shape into a Loaf: I fold the edges into the center, creating tension on the surface. Then I roll the dough gently into a tight oval or round shape depending on your baking vessel.

  5. Final Proofing: I place the shaped dough in a floured banneton or a greased bread pan and cover it for 1-2 hours, allowing it to rise until slightly puffy.

  6. Baking is where the magic happens.

Why This Recipe Works: Craving the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread? This Soft Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe brings the charm of artisanal baking straight to your kitchen. With a tender crumb, a slightly tangy flavor, and a golden crust, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. Even if you’re new to sourdough, this recipe keeps things simple without compromising on flavor or texture.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips: If you want to save it for longer, I slice the loaf and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Toast or gently warm slices straight from the freezer for a fresh-baked experience anytime.

Recipe from EatYay (https://eatyay.com) — Discover more chef-tested recipes & USDA nutrition facts.