Beginner Sourdough Bread

Beginner Sourdough Bread ( 72% Hydration)

(Using grams is preferred for accuracy)

Ingredient Grams Approx. Volume Equivalent
Bread flour 500 g 4 cups
Whole wheat flour 50 g 1/3 cup
Water 385 g 1 2/3 cups
Active sourdough starter 110 g 1/2 cup (a heaping 1/2 cup)
Salt 11 g 2 tsp

Instructions

Mixing & Bulk Fermentation

  1. In a large bowl, mix water, starter, flour, and salt until fully combined.

  2. Let rest (autolyse) for 30 minutes.

Folding Schedule

  • Stretch & Fold #1 → Rest 30 minutes

  • Stretch & Fold #2 → Rest 30 minutes

  • Coil Fold #1 → Rest 30 minutes

  • Coil Fold #2 → Then proof for 4 hours at 77°F (25°C) (See table below)

Use this handy guide to dial in your bulk fermentation 


Shaping & Cold Rest

  1. Pre-shape, then rest for 30 minutes.

  2. Final shape, place into a banneton or proofing basket.

  3. Let rest 1 hour at room temperature, then refrigerate for 12 hours .


Baking

  1. In the morning, preheat oven to 482°F (250°C).

  2. Score loaf and bake with a tray of water (for steam) for 5 minutes.

  3. Second score, remove the tray, and reduce oven to 428°F (220°C).

  4. Bake for another 30 minutes.