If you’re looking for a simple sourdough bread recipe that fits easily into your daily routine, this is the one. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you’ll get a beautiful loaf with a crisp crust, soft crumb, and delicious sourdough flavor.

Whether you’re new to sourdough baking or an experienced baker, this recipe is reliable, beginner-friendly, and perfect for everyday use.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Fermentation Time: 8–12 hours
• Baking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 9–13 hours

Ingredients

• 500g bread flour
• 350g water (room temperature)
• 100g active sourdough starter
• 10g salt

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the water and active sourdough starter. Stir until the starter is mostly dissolved.

Add the bread flour and mix until no dry flour remains. Cover and let the dough rest for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Add Salt

Sprinkle the salt over the dough and mix thoroughly until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Stretch and Fold

Perform 4 sets of stretch and folds, spaced 30 minutes apart. Cover the dough between each set.

You will notice the dough becoming smoother and stronger with each fold.

Step 4: Bulk Fermentation

Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until it has increased in volume by about 50%.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a tight round or oval loaf.

Place the dough seam-side up in a floured proofing basket or a bowl lined with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 6: Cold Proof

Cover and refrigerate for 8–12 hours. This slow fermentation develops flavor and improves the texture of the bread.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F) with a Dutch oven inside.

Carefully transfer the dough onto parchment paper and score the top with a sharp blade.

Place the dough into the hot Dutch oven.

Bake:

• 20 minutes with the lid on
• 20–25 minutes with the lid off

The bread should be deep golden brown with a crisp crust.

Step 8: Cool

Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Use an active, bubbly sourdough starter.
• Avoid adding extra flour unless necessary.
• Cold proofing overnight improves flavor and oven spring.
• Let the loaf cool fully before cutting to prevent a gummy texture.

Storage

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

Nutrition Information (Per Slice)

• Calories: 160
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour?

Yes, but bread flour generally produces a chewier texture and better rise.

How do I know when bulk fermentation is complete?

The dough should look puffy, feel airy, and increase in volume by about 50%.

Can I skip the cold proof?

Yes, but the flavor and crust may not be as developed.

Why is my sourdough dense?

Common causes include an inactive starter, under-fermentation, or insufficient gluten development.

This Daily Easy Sourdough Bread is the perfect recipe for anyone who wants fresh homemade bread with simple ingredients and dependable results every time.