Homemade Sweet Sourdough Loaf

Name: Homemade Sweet Sourdough Loaf
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 500g strong white bread flour; 300ml water, lukewarm; 100g sourdough starter, active; 50g sugar; 30g honey; 10g salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; Optional: dried fruits or nuts as desired

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve recently fallen in love with the art of baking sourdough, and this homemade sweet sourdough loaf has become a staple in my kitchen. There’s something magical about the tangy flavor paired with a hint of sweetness that makes it perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. The process is surprisingly easy, and once you master the technique, you can customize it with your favorite add-ins. Trust me, this loaf will elevate your baking game!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:58:20.141Z

Baking this loaf was an experiment that paid off beautifully. I tried different variations of sweetening the dough, settling on a mix of honey and sugar that perfectly balances the sour notes from the sourdough starter. The addition of a bit of cinnamon also gives it a warm, inviting aroma while it bakes!

One crucial tip I learned is to allow the dough to rise long enough to develop its flavor. Patience truly pays off in baking, and having that extra time results in a wonderfully fluffy texture that you won't want to miss out on.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfect blend of tangy and sweet flavors
Soft and airy texture with a delightful crust
Versatile for toast, sandwiches, or simply with butter

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this sweet sourdough loaf lies in its ingredients, each playing a critical role in flavor and texture. The strong white bread flour provides the necessary protein for gluten development, which is essential for achieving that airy structure. Choosing a high-protein flour, ideally above 12.5%, will ensure the loaf rises beautifully and has a lovely chewy crumb.

Sugar and honey not only sweeten the bread but also contribute to caramelization during baking, enhancing the crust's flavor and color. If you're looking for an alternative sweetness, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar, but be mindful that these may slightly affect the hydration level, so adjust the water accordingly.

Kneading Techniques

Kneading is a crucial element in developing the dough’s structure. When kneading, aim for a smooth and elastic texture—this can take around 10 minutes. A well-kneaded dough will pass the 'windowpane test,' where a small piece can stretch thin without tearing. If your dough feels too sticky, avoid adding too much flour, as this can alter the balance of ingredients; instead, keep kneading to develop gluten.

If you notice during the first rise that the dough isn’t doubling in size as expected, make sure your starter is active. A cool space may slow fermentation, so consider placing the bowl in a slightly warmer spot, or use a proofing box to maintain temperature around 75°F to 80°F for optimal fermentation.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a successful bake:

For the Dough

500g strong white bread flour
300ml water, lukewarm
100g sourdough starter, active
50g sugar
30g honey
10g salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional: dried fruits or nuts as desired

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious homemade sweet sourdough loaf:

Mixing the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the strong white bread flour, sugar, and cinnamon. In another bowl, mix the lukewarm water, active sourdough starter, and honey until well blended. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Kneading the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add the salt and knead until incorporated.

First Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm place for about 60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Shaping the Loaf

Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and allow it to rise again for about 30 minutes.

Baking

Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cooling

Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your homemade sweet sourdough loaf!

Ensure the loaf cools completely for the best slicing results.

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding walnuts or raisins to the dough during the mixing phase. If your starter isn't active, try feeding it the night before to ensure it's bubbly and ready for baking.

Serving Suggestions

This sweet sourdough loaf shines as a breakfast option, especially when toasted and smeared with butter or your favorite fruit preserves. It's also fantastic for sandwiches; consider pairing it with ham and sharp cheddar for a delightful contrast. The slight sweetness of the bread complements savory fillings beautifully, creating a balanced meal.

For an indulgent treat, slice the loaf and prepare French toast. Just dip the slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and vanilla, then cook them on a hot griddle until golden. Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries for a brunch-worthy dish that showcases your homemade bread.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To keep your sweet sourdough loaf fresh, store it at room temperature in a bread bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to maintain its crusty exterior. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you live in a particularly humid environment, consider storing it in the refrigerator to prevent mold growth, although this may slightly alter the texture.

If you want to extend its shelf life, freeze the loaf. Slice it before freezing, then wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When craving freshly baked bread, pop a slice into the toaster or let it thaw at room temperature for a quick and easy snack.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour will work, but it may make the loaf denser.

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

It should be bubbly and doubled in size within a few hours after feeding.

→ What can I add to the dough for flavor?

You can add spices like nutmeg or mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.

→ How should I store leftover bread?

Wrap the loaf in foil or place it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.