Name: Same Day Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 150 g active sourdough starter; 300 g warm filtered water ((around 90°F)); 450 g flour ((300g bread flour + 150g all-purpose flour)); 12 g salt

There’s something irresistible about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. This Same Day Sourdough Bread recipe harnesses the magic of sourdough without the long wait time, allowing you to enjoy your creation in just a few hours. With a delightful crust and a soft, chewy center, this loaf is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply slathered with your favorite spread. Let’s dive into the world of sourdough and make a loaf that will impress your family and friends.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Same Day Sourdough Bread is a game changer for anyone who loves the tangy flavor and texture of traditional sourdough but doesn’t have the luxury of time. The combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour creates a perfect balance, providing structure while keeping the crumb soft. Additionally, the fermentation process, although quick, still allows for that signature sourdough taste, making it a hit with bread lovers of all ages. Whether served at a family dinner or a casual gathering, this bread is sure to be the star of the table.

Ingredient Checklist

To ensure your Same Day Sourdough Bread turns out perfectly, gather the following ingredients:

150g active sourdough starter
300g warm filtered water (around 90°F)
450g flour (300g bread flour + 150g all-purpose flour)
12g salt

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you embark on your sourdough journey, gather the necessary tools:

Large mixing bowl – for combining ingredients
Wooden spoon or dough whisk – for mixing
Bench scraper – for shaping the dough
Kitchen scale – for accurate measurements
Proofing basket or bowl – for the final rise
Dutch oven or baking stone – for baking
Sharp knife or bread lame – for scoring the dough

Stepwise Method: Same Day Sourdough Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 150g of active sourdough starter with 300g of warm filtered water. Stir until the starter is fully dissolved. Gradually add the 450g of flour (300g bread flour and 150g all-purpose flour) into the mixture. The dough will be shaggy and sticky at this stage.

Step 2: Add Salt

Once the flour is incorporated, sprinkle 12g of salt over the dough. Use your hands to pinch and fold the dough, ensuring the salt is evenly distributed throughout. This process is essential for flavor and structure.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle a little flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it by pressing down. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. Use your bench scraper to help you shape the dough tight.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough into a proofing basket or a bowl lined with a floured kitchen towel. Cover it with the damp cloth again and let it rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up noticeably.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust.

Step 8: Score the Dough

Once the dough is ready, carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Gently flip the dough onto a piece of parchment paper. Using a sharp knife or bread lame, score the top of the dough with a few shallow cuts. This allows the bread to expand during baking.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Using the parchment paper as a sling, carefully place the dough into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches about 200°F (93°C).

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. This step is essential to let the crumb set properly. Now, your Same Day Sourdough Bread is ready to be enjoyed!

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking to make your Same Day Sourdough Bread even healthier, consider these alternatives:

Whole wheat flour: Substitute part of the bread flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Flaxseed meal: Add a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for a boost of omega-3 fatty acids.
Olive oil: Incorporate a tablespoon of olive oil for a richer flavor and improved texture.
Seeds or nuts: Mix in sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped nuts for added crunch and nutrition.

Chef’s Notes

Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before starting this recipe for the best results.
Temperature plays a crucial role in fermentation; adjust your timing based on your kitchen’s temperature.
If you prefer a more pronounced sour flavor, let the dough rise longer before shaping.
Experiment with different flours to find your perfect combination and flavor profile.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Same Day Sourdough Bread fresh:

Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it in an airtight container. It can be toasted straight from the freezer.
Avoid storing bread in plastic, as it can make the crust soft and chewy.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours! Just keep in mind that using whole grain flours may require adjustments in hydration due to their absorbency.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to an inactive starter or insufficient warmth. Ensure your starter is bubbly and active before using. If your kitchen is cold, find a warm spot for the dough to rise.

Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can bake the bread on a baking stone or sheet. Just place a pan with water in the oven to create steam, which helps develop a crispy crust.

How can I enhance the flavor of my bread?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs, spices, or seeds to the dough. You can also let it ferment longer for a more complex flavor profile.

Bring It to the Table

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of slicing into a warm loaf of Same Day Sourdough Bread. Whether served alongside a hearty soup, topped with creamy butter, or transformed into an unforgettable sandwich, this bread is sure to elevate any meal. Gather your loved ones, share a slice, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Baking bread is not just about food; it’s about creating connections, memories, and moments that last a lifetime. Enjoy your baking adventure!