Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread

Name: Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always been fascinated by the magic of sourdough, and this Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread captures that enchantment beautifully. The combination of slightly sweet flavors with the tang from the sourdough starter creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that's perfect for any meal. After experimenting with different techniques, I found that allowing the dough to rise slowly overnight enhances its aroma and flavor, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:10:26.497Z

We don’t just bake bread; we create a sensory experience every time we make our Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread. I remember the first time I pulled a fresh loaf from the oven, its golden crust crackling as it cooled. The smell was irresistible, drawing everyone to the kitchen for a taste. I learned that the key to lovely flavor lies in patience, as letting the dough develop overnight yields an unparalleled depth.

As I perfected this recipe, I discovered that the addition of a touch of honey not only sweetens the bread but also helps achieve that enviable crust. Plus, the moist interior stays fresh longer, making it an ideal companion for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance between soft sweetness and tangy sourdough flavor
Rich, aromatic crust that crackles when you cut into it
Perfect for toasting or paired with your favorite jams and spreads

      

Understanding the Sourdough Starter

The sourdough starter is the heart of this Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread. It not only provides leavening but also adds depth of flavor through natural fermentation. Make sure your starter is active and bubbly; a well-fed starter will double in size within 4-6 hours after feeding, indicating it's ready for baking. If your starter isn't performing well, consider refreshing it more frequently before beginning this recipe to ensure it has the strength needed to give your bread the perfect rise.

Strong hydration is key to achieving the desired texture. The combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour helps create a tender crumb while the honey balances the sour notes, enhancing the overall flavor. If you prefer a sweeter bread, adjust the honey to 1/3 cup; however, too much sweetness can affect the fermentation process and rise.

Kneading Techniques

Kneading is vital for gluten development and achieving that soft texture. When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth, elastic surface. If you notice the dough is sticky, sprinkle in a little additional flour, but avoid over-flouring, which can lead to a dense loaf. The dough is ready when it springs back when gently poked, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes of kneading, ensuring it's well incorporated with the olive oil for added moisture.

During the first rise, keep the dough in a warm area, ideally around 75-80°F (24-27°C), as warmth encourages fermentation. If your kitchen is chilly, consider placing the bowl in the oven (turned off) with a bowl of hot water to create a warm, steamy environment.

Baking and Storage Tips

For the best crust, place a shallow pan of water in the oven while the loaf bakes. This steam creates a beautiful crisp exterior and helps with oven spring. If your bread is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is a rich golden-brown, and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, typically around 30-40 minutes.

After your bread has cooled completely on a wire rack, store it in a paper bag to maintain its crust, or wrap it tightly in plastic for soft storage. For longer storage, you can slice the bread and freeze it, ensuring it retains its flavor and texture. To enjoy later, simply toast frozen slices directly from the freezer for a quick treat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to start making your Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread:

Bread Ingredients

1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil

Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread:

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, warm water, and honey. Stir until well mixed, then gradually add the flours and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, incorporating olive oil halfway through, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 6-8 hours or overnight until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaf

Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 1-2 hours.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it's ready when your dough finishes its second rise.

Bake the Bread

Bake the loaf for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread!

Pro Tips

To enhance the sourdough flavor, you can refrigerate the shaped loaf for 2-4 hours before baking. This slow fermentation creates a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This Soft Sweet Sourdough Bread is incredibly versatile. It's delightful toasted with a smear of butter or your favorite jam for breakfast, or served alongside soups and salads. To elevate it further, try adding nuts or dried fruits during the mixing process; walnuts and cranberries complement the sweet notes beautifully.

For a savory twist, consider spreading herbed cream cheese on a slice, topped with smoked salmon for a brunch classic. This bread's inherent sweetness pairs well with sharp cheeses, making it an excellent choice for a cheese board alongside fruits and nuts.

Variations You Can Try

If you're in the mood for a bit of experimentation, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or cardamom to the dough, which can transform this recipe into a delightful sweet loaf perfect for breakfast. Additionally, replacing honey with maple syrup or brown sugar will introduce different flavors while maintaining the sweet profile.

For a more robust flavor experience, you can incorporate seeds like sunflower or sesame into the dough before shaping it. Brushing the top with olive oil before baking can help any seeds stick and provides a gorgeous golden finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular yeast instead of sourdough starter?

Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ significantly. Follow your yeast bread recipe instead.

→ How do I know when my dough has risen enough?

The dough should be roughly double in size and feel puffy and airy to the touch.

→ Can I make this bread gluten-free?

You can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture will vary.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store it in a bread box or a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze it.