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beginner-friendly sourdough bread - featured image

Beginner-Friendly Sourdough Bread: No Starter Needed


  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 4 hours
  • Yield: 1 loaf (12 slices) 1x

Description

A forgiving, fast-rise sourdough bread that uses buttermilk and baking soda to create a tangy flavor and crusty texture without the need for a traditional starter.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (500g) All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) Buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) Unsalted Butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) Baking Soda
  • 1 ½ teaspoons (9g) Salt
  • 1 tablespoon (15g) Honey or Sugar
  • Extra Flour for dusting
  • Butter or Olive Oil for brushing

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, honey, and salt until smooth and emulsified.
  2. Add the flour and baking soda to the wet mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy, soft, and slightly tacky dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Shape the dough into a round ball or oval. Place seam-side down in a loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet, tucking edges under to create tension.
  5. Cover loosely with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until puffed and jiggly.
  6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife or razor blade, cutting a deep slash about ½ inch deep.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped, or until internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C).
  8. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Ensure baking soda is fresh for proper rise. If using table salt, reduce amount to 1 teaspoon. For a crispier crust, place a pan of hot water in the oven during preheating. Do not refrigerate leftovers as it stales the bread faster; store at room temperature or freeze.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 320
  • Fat: 4
  • Saturated Fat: 2
  • Carbohydrates: 30
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 5

Keywords: sourdough bread, no starter sourdough, beginner bread recipe, quick sourdough, buttermilk bread, homemade bread, crusty bread