Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

This Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread is perfect for any occasion. With its fluffy texture and soft crust, it elevates everything from sandwiches to French toast. This recipe is unique because it requires minimal effort and no complicated techniques, making it accessible even for beginners. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just craving a delicious slice of bread, this sourdough will not disappoint!

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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
• Toast Ideas
• Breakfast Options
• How to Perfect Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Best Side Dishes for Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Reheating Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make my Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread fluffier?
• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
• What is the best way to store Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread?
• How long does it take to make Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread?
• Can I add seeds or herbs to this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward process ensures that anyone can bake this delicious bread without prior experience.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even as a base for French toast.
• Fluffy Texture: Enjoy the light and airy consistency that makes each bite delightful.
• Long Shelf Life: This bread stays fresh longer than other types due to the natural fermentation process.
• Flexible Timing: Fit the baking process into your schedule easily with flexible timing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Dough hook attachment
• Mixing bowls
• Loaf pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing dough, ensuring a consistent texture.
• Dough hook attachment: Helps develop gluten effectively without tiring your arms.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and allowing dough to rise properly.

Ingredients

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 of flour and about 1 1/3 cups of warm water. Let the starter sit at room temperature until it becomes active and rises to the top. Once active, proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Combine Pre-ferment Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 2 cups of milk or buttermilk, 2 cups of active sourdough starter, and 3 cups of 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 in 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. Continue mixing for another 2–3 minutes.

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. If it’s cold outside, this may take longer.

Step 5: Shape the Loaves

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

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover loaves and let them rise until just above edges of pans. This usually takes about 2–3 hours; watch closely to avoid over-proofing.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a bread lame or 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 softer crust. Let bread cool completely before slicing. Serve with butter and jam or use for sandwiches or toast!

How to Serve Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Soft sourdough sandwich bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast option or a satisfying lunch, this bread complements a variety of toppings and fillings.

Classic Sandwiches

• Turkey and Avocado – Layer sliced turkey with ripe avocado for a nutritious meal.
• BLT – Crisp bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes make for a classic combination.
• Grilled Cheese – Melt your favorite cheese between two slices, then grill until golden.

Toast Ideas

• Avocado Toast – Smash ripe avocado on toasted bread and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Nut Butter Delight – Spread almond or peanut butter and top with banana slices or honey.
• Tomato Bruschetta – Top toasted slices with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic drizzle.

Breakfast Options

• French Toast – Dip slices in an egg mixture, then pan-fry for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Egg Sandwich – Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies for a filling start to the day.

How to Perfect Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

To achieve the best soft sourdough sandwich bread, keep these tips in mind for a successful bake every time.

• Bold Starter Maintenance – Ensure your sourdough starter is active before use. A healthy starter contributes to better flavor and rise.
• Bold Temperature Awareness – Adjust liquid temperatures based on your kitchen’s climate. Warm liquids help yeast activity in cooler environments.
• Bold Flour Quality – Use high-quality flour for optimal gluten development and texture in your bread.
• Bold Dough Monitoring – Keep an eye on dough during rises. Over-proofing can lead to flat loaves.
• Bold Cooling Time – Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain texture and crust quality.

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Best Side Dishes for Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

Soft sourdough sandwich bread pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garden Salad – Fresh greens tossed with seasonal vegetables create a light complement to any sandwich.
2. Soup of the Day – A warm bowl of soup like tomato bisque or chicken noodle pairs perfectly with buttery sourdough.
3. Potato Chips – Crunchy chips add texture contrast to soft sandwiches; opt for homemade if possible!
4. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit mix adds a sweet note that balances savory dishes well.
5. Pickles or Olives – These tangy bites provide an excellent contrast to the soft texture of the bread.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrients and flavor complexity alongside your sandwiches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking soft sourdough sandwich bread can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will lead to better results.

• Skipping the Pre-ferment: Neglecting this step can result in dense bread. Always allow your pre-ferment to ferment overnight for the best flavor and texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little flour or liquid can throw off your dough. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Ignoring Dough Temperature: If your dough is too cold, it won’t rise properly. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially in cooler weather.
• Over-proofing the Dough: Allowing the dough to rise for too long can lead to flat loaves. Keep an eye on it and shape when it has doubled in size.
• Failing to Slash the Loaves: Skipping this step can cause uneven baking. Use a sharp blade to create slashes on top of the loaves before baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in a plastic bag or airtight container.
• Can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

• Slice before freezing for easier use later.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in freezer bags.
• Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 10-15 seconds; check often to prevent dryness.
• Stovetop: Toast slices in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread fluffier?

Adding more milk or buttermilk can enhance moisture and softness. Ensure thorough mixing to develop gluten as well.

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

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Start with 50% and adjust based on your desired texture.

What is the best way to store Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer shelf life. For extended storage, freeze individual slices.

How long does it take to make Soft Sourdough Sandwich Bread?

The total process takes about 24 hours, but only about 10 minutes of active effort is needed. Plan accordingly!

Can I add seeds or herbs to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in seeds like sesame or poppy, or herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the dough for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

This soft sourdough sandwich bread is not only versatile but also easy to customize with different flavors and add-ins. Its fluffy texture makes it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even French toast! Try making it today and enjoy a delicious homemade treat that elevates any meal.

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