8 Sourdough Bread Recipes That Use a Starter

"Most people say that this kind of bread takes soooo long to make, but actually it takes no longer than other bread, you just have to spread your activities out over 2 days instead of a solid half an hour. No matter what, it is worth it," says reviewer yogamommy. Join over 300 home cooks who have made this classic recipe.

This is a great recipe for first timers! Chef John lays out in detail how to make sourdough bread: "Making your own sourdough bread does take a while, but the amount of actual work is minimal--and the bread you'll get is spectacular! See the footnote link to how to make the sourdough starter."

"A hearty grain and seed filled sourdough bread. Any good sourdough starter will work in this bread," says recipe creator JACLYN. Reviewers agree, but some added a pinch of salt.

"Since I've been given a sourdough starter, I've been making sourdoughs like crazy so the starter doesn't take over my fridge. This is the best of the whole wheat ones I've tried," says reviewer MACKALLEN. "It rose nicely, but that probably has something to do with me kneading the heck out of it and also me being patient with the dough." Sourdough rye makes a  perfect sandwich bread. 

Recipe creator Janic says, "Dried cranberries and pecans are added to a basic bread fermented with a sourdough starter. We love to make French toast with it." 

Good sourdough bread takes time to make, and this recipe could take a couple of days depending on how long you allow for the two rises.

"This crusty, chewy, tangy bread can't be beat. You'll be shocked at how simple it is to create such a professional loaf at home. Glossy, crunchy crust. Resilient, airy crumb. Baking inside a Dutch oven (set in your kitchen oven) does an excellent job simulating the effects of a professional bread oven." —hrabbot

This sourdough recipe includes its own starter recipe, you can use it to make sourdough from start to finish. Reviewer JUDY SAXBY says, "My husband loves sourdough bread. And he loved this recipe."