Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread

Name: Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1 cup warm water; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love baking, and nothing makes my kitchen smell better than freshly baked sourdough bread. This Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread recipe transforms traditional baking into a delightful experience with minimal effort. Utilizing my sourdough starter, I've crafted a loaf that's sweet, soft, and perfect for slathering with butter or enjoying on its own. The balance of sweetness and that signature tang makes it an irresistible treat. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned baker, this easy recipe will make sourdough a staple in your home.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:37:14.661Z

When I first started making sourdough bread, I didn't expect to fall in love with the process. The blend of patience and creativity was refreshing, and the payoff was absolutely delicious. My friends and family would rave about the lovely aroma that filled my home as the bread baked. The secret to this recipe’s sweetness lies in the perfect balance of honey and the tang from the starter, creating a unique flavor profile.

One detail that made a massive difference for me was allowing the dough to bulk ferment overnight. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but it also helps develop texture. Give this easy recipe a try, and soon enough, you'll have a loaf that looks as incredible as it tastes!

        Why You'll Love This Bread
        Delightfully sweet with a hint of sourness
Perfectly soft and fluffy texture
Great for breakfast or as a snack

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of your Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread lies in the active sourdough starter. This cultured mixture of flour and water carries natural yeast, which is crucial for the rise and flavor development. If you're using your own starter, ensure it’s bubbly and active, having been fed within the last few hours. This will lead to a better rise and a wonderfully tangy flavor profile.

Honey is the magic ingredient that sweetens this loaf while contributing to its moist texture. It not only enhances the flavor but also helps retain moisture after baking, ensuring your bread stays soft for days. If you need a substitute, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar, both of which will provide a similar sweetness and moisture.

Perfecting the Technique

Kneading is a vital step in developing the gluten structure of your sourdough, which gives the bread its characteristic fluffy texture. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough by kneading it for about 10 minutes on a floured surface. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as excess flour can lead to a denser loaf.

During the rising phases, warmth plays a key role in the fermentation process. If your kitchen is too cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) or near a warm radiator. This optimized environment helps the yeast become active and influences the overall flavor of your sourdough. Watch for the dough to double in size—this typically takes about 6-8 hours for the first rise, but can vary based on the ambient temperature.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup active sourdough starter
1 cup warm water
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your sourdough bread:

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, warm water, honey, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the kneaded dough back in the bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 6-8 hours or until doubled in size.

Shape and Second Rise

Gently punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for an additional 2-3 hours.

Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom of the loaf to check if it sounds hollow.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy it fresh or toasted with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding nuts or dried fruits into the dough during the second kneading stage for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once cooled, store your Easy Sweet Sourdough Bread in a paper bag to keep the crust crisp while allowing airflow. For longer storage, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature or toast it directly from the freezer for a delicious crispy texture.

This bread is incredibly versatile! It's perfect for a morning toast topped with butter and jam or served alongside soup for a comforting meal. You can also slice it thinly for sandwiches, using its subtle sweetness to complement savory fillings like ham or cheese.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your bread doesn't rise as expected, check your sourdough starter. It should be active and bubbly—if not, give it additional feedings until it shows signs of vitality. Also, ensure that your ingredients are at the right temperature; using water that's too hot can kill the yeast.

If your loaf comes out dense, it may be due to overworking the dough during the kneading step. Pay attention to the consistency and aim for a smooth, elastic feel. Additionally, be cautious with flour measurements—too much flour can affect the dough's hydration and result in a denser loaf.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, you can replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How do I store the bread?

Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ What if my dough doesn't rise?

Check the activity of your sourdough starter. It should be bubbly and active. If it's too old or inactive, refresh it before using.

→ Can I add flavors to this bread?

Absolutely! Experiment with spices like cinnamon or add vanilla extract to give it a unique twist.