Soft and Fluffy Sourdough Sandwich Bread
This soft and fluffy sourdough sandwich bread is easy to make, perfectly sliceable, and ideal for everyday meals. A simple, from-scratch recipe for busy families who love homemade bread.
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter bubbly and fed
- 2 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup honey or 6 tablespoon sugar/maple syrup
- 8 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour for chewier texture
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 cup coconut oil or butter 113 grams
Instructions
- In a stand mixer bowl, add: sourdough starter, warm water, honey/sugar/ oil or butter.Add flour and salt. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
- Switch to a dough hook.Knead on medium-low speed for 8–10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl.Cover with a towel or lid.Let it rise at room temperature for 8–12 hours (overnight works well).
- Lightly flour your surface.Gently press the dough into a rectangle.Roll it up tightly (like a log), tucking the ends under.Place into a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise for 2–4 hours, until the dough rises just above the pan.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden brown.If the top browns too fast, loosely cover with foil.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.Then transfer to a wire rack.
The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not sticky.
Sourdough takes its time. A slow rise builds flavor and gives you that soft, airy texture.
If your kitchen is cool, place it near the oven with the light on.
Wait at least 1 hour before slicing. This keeps the crumb soft and not gummy.
Notes
- Want softer crust? Brush with butter right after baking
- Dough not rising? Your starter may need feeding or a warmer spot
- Too dense? Try a longer rise or switch to bread flour
- For extra softness: Add 1–2 tablespoons milk powder