It’s fall time! The aroma of freshly baked pumpkin sourdough loaf fills the air. This isn’t ordinary bread; it’s the ultimate fall treat, perfect for sandwiches or toast. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to sourdough, this recipe offers a delightful challenge and delicious reward. Let’s create a loaf that will become a seasonal favorite in your home.
Table of Contents
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup water
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, pumpkin puree, and water. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Add the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Fold in the pumpkin seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rest for 30 minutes to allow the flour to fully hydrate.
- Begin the bulk fermentation process. Over the next 4-6 hours, perform a series of stretch and folds every hour. To do this, grab one side of the dough, stretch it up and fold it over to the opposite side. Rotate the bowl and repeat this process 3-4 times during each folding session.
- After the bulk fermentation, shape the dough into a boule (round loaf). Place it in a proofing basket or a bowl lined with a well-floured kitchen towel, seam side up.
- Cover the shaped dough and transfer it to the refrigerator for an overnight cold proof, typically 8-12 hours.
- The next day, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
- Once the oven is hot, carefully remove your dough from the refrigerator and turn it out onto a piece of parchment paper. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife or bread lame.
- Carefully transfer the dough, parchment and all, into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the lid and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown.
- Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the crust with melted butter for a softer texture and beautiful golden sheen.
- Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips and Tricks
- Starter Activity: Ensure your sourdough starter is at peak activity before mixing it into your dough. A bubbly, active starter will result in better fermentation and a more flavorful loaf.
- Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for consistent results. If using homemade puree, make sure it’s not too watery to maintain the proper hydration level in your dough.
- Flour Mix: The combination of bread flour and whole wheat flour provides a good balance of structure and flavor. Feel free to adjust the ratio slightly based on your preference.
- Bulk Fermentation: Pay attention to your dough during this stage. In warmer temperatures, it may be ready in 4 hours, while cooler conditions might require the full 6 hours.
- Cold Proofing: The overnight cold proof in the refrigerator not only fits conveniently into most schedules but also allows for flavor development and easier handling of the dough.
- Baking Environment: The Dutch oven creates a steamy environment that promotes excellent crust development. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use a baking stone and create steam by placing a tray of boiling water on the bottom rack of your oven.
How to Serve
The Pumpkin Sourdough Loaf is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways:
- Hearty Fall Sandwiches: Create the ultimate fall sandwich by layering slices of roast turkey, cranberry sauce, and crisp apple between two pieces of this flavorful bread.
- Gourmet Grilled Cheese: Elevate your grilled cheese game by using this bread with sharp cheddar and fresh sage leaves for a decadent treat.
- Toast: Simply toasted and spread with butter, this bread makes a satisfying breakfast or snack. For an extra special touch, top with pumpkin butter or a generous smear of cream cheese.
- Soup Companion: Serve alongside your favorite fall soups, like butternut squash or roasted carrot, for a comforting and complete meal.
- French Toast: Use day-old slices to make a seasonal French toast, perfect for a cozy weekend brunch.
Master the Pumpkin Sourdough Loaf
The pumpkin sourdough loaf combines fall flavors with careful baking techniques. Its orange crumb, pumpkin seeds, and sourdough flavor make it a likely seasonal favorite. This bread is both tasty and versatile, complementing many fall dishes, and suitable for various occasions and meals. Enjoy making and eating this fall-inspired loaf.
