Sweet Sourdough Bread Recipe

Name: Sweet Sourdough Bread Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 15 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Optional: sesame seeds or oats for topping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making my own Sweet Sourdough Bread at home. The process is surprisingly rewarding and the aroma that fills the kitchen is captivating. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a loaf that's not only soft and fluffy but also has a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with butter or jam. Sourdough is known for its unique tanginess, but this recipe brings a sweet twist that my family adores. Baking this bread has become a cherished weekend ritual in our home.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:52:14.916Z

When I first tried to make sourdough bread, I was apprehensive about the long fermentation process. However, after several attempts, I discovered the joy of nurturing the dough and watching it rise. I often experiment by adding honey or brown sugar to the dough for that sweet touch, making it perfect for breakfast or snacks.

One of my best tips is to ensure that your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you mix it into the dough. This makes all the difference in achieving that beautiful rise and unique sour flavor. I've also found that using a cast-iron Dutch oven helps create the perfect baking environment. Trust me, the results will be absolutely worth it!

        Why You'll Love This Sweet Sourdough Bread
        A perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess
Soft, airy texture that's deliciously satisfying
Versatile enough for both sweet and savory toppings

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Sweet Sourdough Bread plays a crucial role in developing flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides the structure for the loaf, while the active sourdough starter introduces beneficial wild yeast and bacteria, giving the bread its unique tang and depth of flavor. Honey or brown sugar not only sweetens the bread but also aids in achieving a beautifully browned crust due to caramelization during baking.

Salt is essential in this recipe; it enhances flavor and strengthens the gluten structure within the dough, resulting in a better rise. Warm water is used to activate the sourdough starter effectively and ensures that the dough remains pliable during mixing and kneading. The optional sesame seeds or oats sprinkled on top provide not only texture but also visual appeal, making your bread truly inviting.

Techniques for Perfect Texture

Kneading is a vital technique in this recipe that helps develop gluten, which gives the bread its chewy structure. While kneading for 10 minutes, you should look for the dough to become smooth and elastic; it should bounce back when you poke it gently. If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little flour as you knead, but avoid over-flouring, as this can lead to a dense bread.

The rising period is equally important. Make sure to allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is particularly cold, you might place the bowl in an oven that's been turned off but has been warmed slightly. This longer rise allows for flavor development, and you’ll know it’s ready when it has roughly doubled in size and feels airy to the touch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bread doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to an inactive sourdough starter. Always ensure your starter is bubbly and has been fed recently before using it. If you find your dough too dry, a little extra warm water can be incorporated during kneading, while a dough that’s too wet can be adjusted with a bit more flour, ensuring you achieve a shaggy but manageable consistency.

Another common issue is a bread that doesn’t have a good crust. To ensure a crispy exterior, make sure to preheat your Dutch oven thoroughly before placing your dough inside. The initial steam trapped in the pot during the first half of baking is what helps develop that crust, so don't skip this step. If you prefer a softer crust, you can brush the loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup active sourdough starter
1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/4 cups warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: sesame seeds or oats for topping

Instructions

Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, active sourdough starter, honey or brown sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water while mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for 8 hours or overnight until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaf

Once risen, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket or bowl, seam side up, and let it rise for another 2 hours.

Preheat the Oven

About 30 minutes before baking, place a Dutch oven inside the oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C).

Bake the Bread

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, place the dough inside (you can score the top with a knife if desired), cover it, and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy as is or with your favorite spreads!

Pro Tips

Make sure to adjust the hydration depending on the flour type. If you notice the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Always keep an eye on the dough during the rising process – it can vary depending on the environment.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Sweet Sourdough Bread, store it in a paper bag at room temperature. This method allows the crust to remain crisp while keeping the interior soft. If you need to keep it longer, consider slicing the loaf and storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap slices individually to allow for easy thawing.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen bread, simply take out a slice and let it thaw at room temperature. For an extra treat, you can lightly toast the bread in a skillet or toaster to revive its texture and flavor. If you prefer, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes will also give you a delightful warm crust.

Variations to Try

If you're eager to experiment with flavors, consider adding spices or herbs to the dough. For a sweet twist, you can fold in cinnamon or nutmeg, which can pair beautifully with the honey or brown sugar. Alternatively, if you prefer savory flavors, try including garlic powder, rosemary, or even sun-dried tomatoes for an entirely different bread experience.

Another tasty variation is to incorporate different toppings before baking. Instead of sesame seeds, you could experiment with poppy seeds, or sprinkle the top with a mixture of seeds and cheese for a unique flavor profile. Explore these variations to tailor the bread to your tastes and make it a special part of your meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long does it take to make sourdough bread?

The total time is about 15 hours, including rising overnight and baking.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added flavor and nutrition.

→ What can I serve with sweet sourdough bread?

It pairs beautifully with butter, jam, cream cheese, or even savory spreads like hummus.

→ How can I store leftover sourdough bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, slice and freeze it.