Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe is the perfect blend of cozy flavors and a delightful baking experience. This bread captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and rich pumpkin puree, making it ideal for breakfast or as an accompaniment to your favorite soup. The unique sourdough fermentation adds depth and character, elevating this seasonal treat for any occasion, from Thanksgiving feasts to Halloween gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice creates an irresistible taste that defines autumn.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
• Versatile Use: Enjoy it toasted for breakfast, served with butter, or alongside soups and salads for a cozy meal.
• Healthy Twist: Incorporating pumpkin not only adds flavor but also nutrients, making it a wholesome choice.
• Sourdough Perks: The fermentation process enhances digestibility and infuses a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet spices.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin your baking adventure with the Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Dough scraper
• Baking stone or baking sheet
• Kitchen scale
• Proofing basket (banneton)
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without making a mess.
• Baking stone or baking sheet: Ensures even heat distribution for a perfectly baked crust on your sourdough bread.
• Kitchen scale: Provides precise measurements for consistent results in your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe: Golden Sourdough Bread Recipe with Warm Fall Spices and Pumpkin Puree.

For the Dough

• 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1 Cup Filtered Water (luke warm to speed things up, cold to slow things down)
• 1/2 Cup Inactive Sourdough Starter (mine was pulled from refrigerator)
• 95 Grams Active Sourdough Starter
• 390 Grams Filtered Water
• 100 Grams Pumpkin Puree
• 530 Grams Bread Flour
• 2 Tsps Fine Sea Salt

For the Flavor

• 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1/2 Tbsp Pumpkin Spice
• 1/4 Cup Sugar

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Starters

Start by ensuring your active sourdough starter is bubbly and ready. If you’ve stored it in the refrigerator, take it out at least 12 hours before use to allow it to come to room temperature.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, active sourdough starter, water, and pumpkin puree until well mixed.
2. Gradually add in the bread flour while mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Let the mixture rest for about 30 minutes (this is called autolyse).

Step 3: Add Spices and Salt

After resting:
1. Sprinkle in the fine sea salt, ground cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and sugar.
2. Knead gently until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Bulk Fermentation

Allow the dough to rise:
1. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
2. Let it sit at room temperature for about 4 hours, performing stretch and folds every hour.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Once bulk fermentation is complete:
1. Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
2. Gently shape it into a round loaf using your hands or a bench scraper.

Step 6: Final Proofing

Transfer the shaped dough into a proofing basket:
1. Cover it with a cloth.
2. Let it rise for another 1-2 hours at room temperature or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor development.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C):
1. If using a baking stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
2. Carefully transfer your dough onto parchment paper or directly onto the baking stone.
3. Bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe

Serving your homemade Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread can enhance its flavor and make it even more delightful. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a cozy side dish, there are plenty of ways to elevate this fall favorite.

For Breakfast

• With Butter and Jam: Spread a generous layer of butter on warm slices and add your favorite fruit jam for a sweet start to the day.
• Toasted with Cream Cheese: A creamy layer of cream cheese pairs beautifully with the spices and pumpkin flavors.

As a Snack

• With Nut Butter: Enjoy slices with peanut or almond butter for a protein-packed snack that satisfies hunger.
• Accompanied by Cheese: Pair it with sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese to balance the sweetness.

For Dessert

• With Whipped Cream: Top warm bread with whipped cream for an indulgent treat after dinner.
• Drizzled with Honey: A light drizzle of honey adds extra sweetness, perfect for a cozy evening.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe

Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh flour and active sourdough starter for optimal rise and flavor.
• Control the Temperature: Keep your dough in a warm spot during fermentation to encourage yeast activity.
• Hydrate Properly: Adjust water based on your flour’s absorption rate; wetter doughs often yield better sourdough.
• Knead Thoroughly: Ensure you knead long enough to develop gluten, giving structure to your bread.
• Score before Baking: Use a sharp blade to score the top of your dough; this allows steam to escape and creates an attractive crust.
• Cool Completely: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing to maintain its texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread can create a complete meal or an inviting spread. Here are some delicious options.

1. Autumn Salad: A mixed greens salad with apples, walnuts, and feta complements the warm spices perfectly.
2. Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup enhances the fall flavors, making it an ideal pairing.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts bring out the earthiness of the bread.
4. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts nicely with the sweetness of pumpkin bread.
5. Pumpkin Chili: A hearty chili with pumpkin integrates perfectly into the fall theme while providing warmth.
6. Cheese Platter: Create a board with assorted cheeses, fruits, and nuts that balance well with the sweet notes of your bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking sourdough bread can be tricky, especially when adding seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Starter Selection: Using an inactive starter can lead to dense bread. Always ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before baking.
• Incorrect Measurements: Skipping precise measurements can ruin your dough. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially with flour and water.
• Ignoring Temperature: The temperature of your water affects fermentation. Use lukewarm water to speed up the process or cold water to slow it down, depending on your timing.
• Over-Kneading Dough: Kneading too much can lead to tough bread. Knead just enough until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Not Allowing Enough Rise Time: Rushing the rising process results in flatter loaves. Be patient and allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size.

Save it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
• Pumpkin spice sourdough bread lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe

• Wrap slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes for warmed slices.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Toast slices in a skillet over medium heat for a crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition, but keep in mind it may affect the texture.

How do I know when my bread is done baking?

The bread should have a golden-brown crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of around 200°F (93°C) is ideal.

Is this Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe contains no animal products, making it perfect for vegan diets.

Can I add nuts or dried fruits?

Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or dried fruits like cranberries can enhance the flavor and texture of your pumpkin spice sourdough bread.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe is not only cozy and comforting but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you serve it at breakfast or as a side dish during autumn gatherings, it’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or mix-ins!