Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

This Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread is a delightful addition to any meal. Its fluffy texture and soft crust make it ideal for sandwiches, avocado toast, or even French toast. This simple, no-fuss recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this bread lets you enjoy homemade goodness with just 10 minutes of active time.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For Pre-ferment:
• For the Dough:
• How to Make Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Step 1: Feed Sourdough Starter
• Step 2: Combine Pre-ferment Ingredients
• Step 3: Mix the Dough
• Step 4: First Rise
• Step 5: Shape the Loaves
• Step 6: Second Rise
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
• How to Serve Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Classic Sandwiches
• Toasted Options
• Dips and Spreads
• How to Perfect Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Reheating Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?
• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
• How long does soft sourdough sandwich bread last?
• What can I use this sourdough bread for?
• How can I customize my soft sourdough sandwich bread?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Minimal hands-on time allows you to enjoy freshly baked bread without complicated steps.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or a delicious side to your favorite soups and salads.
• Fluffy Texture: The long fermentation process creates a light and airy crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Flexible Timing: Adapt the baking schedule to fit your lifestyle; it works around your day!
• No Stretching or Folding Required: Simplifies the process so anyone can bake it successfully.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking this soft sourdough sandwich bread, gather a few essential tools. Having them on hand will streamline your process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Dough hook attachment
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes mixing the dough easier and ensures proper gluten development.
• Loaf pans: Help shape the bread during rising and baking for perfectly formed loaves.
• Cooling rack: Prevents steam buildup, keeping the crust crisp as the bread cools.

Ingredients

This soft sourdough sandwich bread requires straightforward ingredients that combine to create its delicious flavor.

For Pre-ferment:

• 2 cups active sourdough starter
• 2 cups water, milk, or buttermilk (warm if your house is cool)
• 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour

For the Dough:

• 1/4 cup fat (butter, oil, melted coconut oil, or beef tallow; warm if the house is cool)
• 1/2 cup sweetener (honey or sugar)
• 4 teaspoons salt
• 3 cups milk or buttermilk (any kind; warm if the house is cool)
• 9–11 cups all-purpose or bread flour

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How to Make Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Step 1: Feed Sourdough Starter

Feed your sourdough starter by combining no more than 1/2 cup of starter with 2 cups flour and about 1 1/3 cups warm water. Let it sit at room temperature until it becomes active and rises to the top.

Step 2: Combine Pre-ferment Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 2 cups milk or buttermilk, 2 cups active sourdough starter, and 3 cups flour. Mix on low speed with the dough hook attachment for about 1 minute. Cover and allow the mixture to ferment overnight at room temperature.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

The next morning, add the fat, sweetener, salt, and milk to the pre-ferment mixture. Mix on low speed until partially combined. Add 5 cups of flour and mix on medium speed for 5–10 minutes to develop gluten. Gradually add another 4–6 cups of flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is only slightly sticky.

Step 4: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a large oiled mixing bowl. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 2–3 hours until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Loaves

Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide into four equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a rectangle; fold corners inward to form a triangle. Roll away from you to form a loaf while tucking edges under as needed.

Step 6: Second Rise

Place shaped loaves in greased loaf pans. Cover them and let them rise until they are just above pan edges—typically takes another 2–3 hours.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a razor blade, slash tops of loaves for expansion during baking. Bake for about 30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Remove loaves from pans onto cooling racks. Brush tops with butter for a soft crust finish. Allow cooling completely before slicing for best results!

How to Serve Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Soft sourdough sandwich bread is incredibly versatile and can elevate any meal. Its fluffy texture and soft crust make it perfect for various serving ideas, from classic sandwiches to gourmet creations.

Classic Sandwiches

• Turkey and Swiss: Layer sliced turkey and Swiss cheese with a touch of mustard for a delicious lunch.
• BLT: Combine crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes for a classic favorite.
• Grilled Cheese: Melt your choice of cheese between two slices and grill until golden brown.

Toasted Options

• Avocado Toast: Smash ripe avocado on toasted slices, seasoned with salt and pepper for a quick snack.
• French Toast: Dip slices in an egg mixture, cook on the skillet, and serve with syrup or powdered sugar.

Dips and Spreads

• Hummus Spread: Serve sliced bread with a bowl of hummus for a healthy appetizer.
• Cream Cheese Delight: Spread cream cheese topped with herbs or smoked salmon for a savory treat.

How to Perfect Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Achieving the perfect soft sourdough sandwich bread requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your loaves come out just right.

• Bold Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using. This helps in achieving the best rise.
• Warm Ingredients: Use warm liquids when mixing, especially in cooler temperatures, to encourage fermentation.
• Knead Thoroughly: Properly mix and knead the dough to develop gluten, which provides structure and softness.
• Watch the Rise: Keep an eye on your dough during the first and second rises; over-proofing can lead to dense bread.
• Slash Before Baking: Make slashes on top of the loaves before baking. This allows controlled expansion during baking.
• Cool Completely: Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Soft sourdough sandwich bread pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh salad loaded with seasonal veggies balances the richness of sandwiches.
2. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips add texture contrast; opt for homemade or gourmet varieties.
3. Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a sharp contrast that enhances flavors in sandwiches.
4. Soup of Choice: Pair your sandwiches with a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal combination.
5. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, making it an ideal side.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers sweetness that complements savory flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking soft sourdough sandwich bread can be rewarding, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Inactive Starter: Always ensure your sourdough starter is active before use. Feed it and let it rise for several hours before incorporating it into your recipe.
• Skipping the Fermentation Time: Allowing the pre-ferment to sit overnight is crucial for flavor development. Don’t rush this step; it enhances the bread’s taste and texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. This ensures you have the right proportions for a perfect dough consistency.
• Ignoring Temperature Conditions: Dough rises best in a warm environment. If your kitchen is cold, consider warming your liquids or extending the rising time.
• Overworking the Dough: Kneading too much can make the bread tough. Mix just until combined and let the dough rest to develop gluten naturally.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soft sourdough sandwich bread in a plastic bag to keep it fresh.
• It can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Freezing Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Store individual portions in separate bags to maintain freshness.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes per side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active?

Your sourdough starter is active when it doubles in size within 4-6 hours after feeding and has a pleasant, tangy aroma.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. Consider mixing with all-purpose flour for better results.

How long does soft sourdough sandwich bread last?

When stored properly, this bread lasts up to 1 week in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

What can I use this sourdough bread for?

This soft sourdough sandwich bread is versatile! It’s great for sandwiches, toast, French toast, or simply enjoyed with butter and jam.

How can I customize my soft sourdough sandwich bread?

You can add herbs, spices, seeds, or even cheese to customize flavors. Experiment with different mix-ins to create your perfect loaf!

Final Thoughts

Soft sourdough sandwich bread offers a delightful blend of flavor and texture that caters to various uses—from sandwiches to toast. With its simple process and flexibility in timing, anyone can master this recipe. Feel free to experiment with ingredients and toppings that suit your taste!

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