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: 500g bread flour; 350ml warm water; 100g active sourdough starter; 50g sugar; 10g salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always loved the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through my kitchen, and this Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread has become one of my favorite recipes. The perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess makes it an ideal companion for breakfast or dessert. I particularly enjoy how simple it is to make—using just a few ingredients that combine seamlessly to create a deliciously soft loaf. With minimal effort and a bit of patience, you’ll have a delightful bread that fills your home with warmth and happiness.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:13:09.211Z

When I first attempted to make sourdough bread, I was intimidated by the lengthy process and the starter culture. But after some trial and error, I discovered that making an easy sweet version was not only a great introduction to sourdough, but also incredibly rewarding. The use of a little sugar enhances the bread's natural flavors beautifully, creating a crust that’s both crispy and sweet.

I recommend measuring your ingredients accurately—especially the flour and starter—because the right ratio makes all the difference in achieving the perfect texture. Additionally, allowing the dough to rest overnight really develops the flavors and creates that characteristic sourdough tang. You’ll be amazed at the results!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Simple ingredients that anyone can find.
Great for toasting and pairing with butter or jam.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread plays a critical role in creating its unique flavor and texture. The active sourdough starter is essential for the leavening process, introducing natural fermentation which gives this bread its distinctive tang. The sugar not only enhances sweetness but also aids in achieving a beautiful crust, while the salt strengthens gluten development and adds depth to the flavor profile. Using high-quality bread flour ensures the dough creates a sturdy structure, allowing it to rise properly.

It's important to note that the quality of your sourdough starter significantly influences the overall taste of your bread. If your starter is too young or not active enough, the bread may not rise as expected. Ideally, your starter should be fed and bubbly when used. If you run out of active starter, consider using a different type of leavening agent— though this will alter the flavor and texture of the bread.

Techniques for Perfecting Your Loaf

Kneading is a vital step that develops the dough's gluten, which gives the bread its chewy texture. When kneading, focus on achieving a smooth and elastic dough—this usually takes about 10 minutes. If the dough feels too sticky, lightly flour your hands and the surface, but avoid adding too much flour as it can result in a dense loaf. Trust the process; the dough will come together with persistence.

During the rising times, be mindful of the environment. The ideal rising temperature is around 24-27°C (75-80°F). If your kitchen is too cold, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or covering it with a warm towel to create a warmer microclimate, which helps the dough rise more effectively.

Ingredients

For the Dough

500g bread flour
350ml warm water
100g active sourdough starter
50g sugar
10g salt

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active sourdough starter. Stir until well mixed. Add the sugar, salt, and bread flour gradually, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise at room temperature for about 6 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for an additional 4-6 hours.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Once preheated, bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 90°C (190°F).

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips

For an even sweeter touch, you can add raisins or chocolate chips into the dough while kneading. If you prefer a darker crust, consider baking with steam in the oven during the first 10 minutes.

Storing and Serving

This sourdough bread can be stored at room temperature in a bread box or wrapped in cloth for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, consider freezing slices; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply toast the slices directly from frozen, giving you a warm, fresh taste whenever you want it.

Enjoy this Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread with a variety of toppings. I love spreading it with creamy butter and my favorite homemade jam, but it also pairs beautifully with avocado or thick slices of cheese for a savory twist. Consider serving it alongside a warm bowl of soup as a delightful dipping option.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to experiment by adding mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit to the dough during the shaping stage. This can introduce additional texture and flavor, making your bread uniquely yours. For an extra sweet touch, try sprinkling a cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top before baking for a delightful crunchy crust.

If you're aiming for a more robust flavor profile, consider incorporating whole wheat flour into the bread flour—start with a ratio of 70% bread flour to 30% whole wheat. This will add complexity while still maintaining the desired rise and texture. Just remember to adjust the water slightly because whole wheat flour absorbs more.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, all-purpose flour can be used, but the texture may be slightly different—bread flour helps achieve a chewier crust.

→ How long can I store the bread?

Stored at room temperature, the bread can last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze it.

→ What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

Ensure your sourdough starter is active. If the kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warmer spot or extending the rise time.

→ Can I use this recipe to make rolls instead of a loaf?

Absolutely! Divide the dough into smaller pieces to shape into rolls and adjust the baking time accordingly.