9 Beginner Sourdough Bread Recipes

There is nothing better than freshly baked homemade bread — and sourdough bread is the King of bread. What is sourdough? It’s bread risen with wild yeast instead of commercially produced yeast, and the fermentation process that happens to the wheat and other grains transforms the bread into something extraordinary.

Sourdough is how our ancestors leavened bread, and the popularity of this bread in recent years continues to grow.

Some people are intimidated by starting and maintaining of a sourdough starter, but as someone who does it while managing small children and a busy homestead — it’s easy. You just have to get started and let it become a part of your routine.

Check out these beginner-friendly sourdough bread recipes and learn some fun things about sourdough.

Same-Day Sourdough Bread

A golden brown sourdough bread boule in a pan.
Photo Credit: Crave The Good.

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Ancient Origins: Sourdough bread is one of the oldest forms of leavened bread, dating back thousands of years. It predates commercial yeast and relies on wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria for fermentation.

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Easy Overnight Dark Rye Bread

Sliced dark rye bread loaf on a cloth.
Photo Credit: Occasionally Eggs.

Wild Yeast: Sourdough bread is made by capturing wild yeast from the environment. This yeast is responsible for the natural fermentation process that gives sourdough its distinctive flavor and rise.

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Buckwheat Sourdough Bread Recipe

Sliced buckwheat sourdough bread.
Photo Credit: The Picky Eater.

San Francisco Sourdough: San Francisco is famous for its unique sourdough bread. The local microorganisms and climate have contributed to developing a distinct flavor profile that can’t easily be replicated elsewhere.

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Cheddar Jalapeno Sourdough Bread

Sourdough boule cut in half revealing cheddar cheese and jalapeños inside.
Photo Credit: Lynn’s Way Of Life.

Health Benefits: Sourdough fermentation breaks down gluten and phytates, making it easier to digest for some people. Additionally, it has a lower glycemic index compared to regular bread, potentially helping to regulate blood sugar levels. (Sources: Healthline, Colorado State University.)

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No-Knead Sourdough Brioche Bread

A loaf of golden brown sourdough brioche bread.
Photo Credit: Milk and Pop.

Starter Culture: Sourdough bread requires a “starter,” a mixture of flour and water that captures and feeds the wild yeast and bacteria. Many families have passed down their sourdough starters for generations.

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Sourdough Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Sourdough Cinnamon Raisin Bread boule dusted with rice flour.
Photo Credit: Lynn’s Way Of Life.

Lactic Acid Fermentation: The lactic acid produced during sourdough fermentation is what gives the bread its tangy flavor. It also acts as a natural preservative, extending the bread’s shelf life.

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Sourdough Dinner Rolls

Small sourdough dinner rolls on a counter.
Photo Credit: Lynn’s Way Of Life.

No Commercial Yeast: Traditional sourdough recipes do not use commercial yeast. Instead, they rely entirely on the microorganisms naturally present in the environment.

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Easy Homemade Sourdough Bread Bowl Recipe

A small sourdough bread boule with the inside torn out, turning it into a bowl.
Photo Credit: Garden Grown Recipes.

Versatile: While the classic sourdough loaf is well-known, sourdough can be used to make a wide range of baked goods, including pancakes, waffles, pizza crust, and more.

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Easy Caraway Rye Bread

Seeded, rectangular sourdough caraway rye bread loaf.
Photo Credit: Foody Wise.

Artisan Appeal: Sourdough bread is often associated with artisanal bakeries, as it requires time, patience, and skill to master. Many home bakers take pride in creating their own unique sourdough recipes.

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