sourdough sandwich loaf

Sourdough Sandwich Loaf: Soft, Tangy, and Perfect for Sandwiches

Nothing beats the flavor of homemade sourdough bread, especially when it’s baked into a soft, sandwich-ready loaf. A Sourdough Sandwich Loaf combines the tangy taste of naturally fermented sourdough with a tender, airy crumb—perfect for toast, sandwiches, or even French toast.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying sourdough for the first time, this recipe guides you through making a soft, golden loaf that holds up beautifully for all your sandwich needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally fermented sourdough with tangy flavor
Soft, tender crumb ideal for sandwiches
Holds up well for slicing and toasting
Made with simple ingredients: flour, water, salt, and starter
Can be made in a loaf pan for a classic shape

Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter, fed and bubbly
1¼ cups (300ml) lukewarm water
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
1 tablespoon sugar or honey
1½ teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil or melted butter

Optional Toppings

Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or oats for sprinkling

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Loaf pan (8×4 inch recommended)
Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
Bench scraper or spatula
Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Starter

Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. Feed it 4–6 hours before mixing for best results.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine water and sourdough starter. Stir in sugar or honey. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6–7 minutes.

Step 4: Bulk Fermentation

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 3–5 hours at room temperature, or until doubled in size. Stretch and fold the dough every hour to develop structure.

Step 5: Shape the Loaf

Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a log to fit your loaf pan. Grease the pan and place the dough inside. Cover and let it rise for 1–2 hours, until it slightly puffs above the pan’s edge.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Optionally, brush the top with water or egg wash and sprinkle seeds.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. An internal temperature of 200°F (93°C) ensures it’s fully baked.

Step 8: Cool

Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Cooling allows the crumb to set and prevents sogginess.

Tips for Perfect Sourdough Sandwich Loaf

Use a strong, active starter for optimal rise and flavor.
Do not rush fermentation—the long rise develops flavor and texture.
Knead thoroughly to build gluten for a soft, elastic crumb.
Cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy interior.
Adjust hydration if needed: the dough should be soft but not overly sticky.

Variations

Whole Wheat: Replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Seeded Loaf: Fold in sunflower seeds, flax, or chia for added texture.
Milk Sourdough: Substitute water with milk for a softer, richer loaf.
Herb Loaf: Mix in rosemary, thyme, or garlic for a savory twist.

Storage

Room Temperature: Keep in a bread bag or wrapped in a tea towel for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Not recommended; it can dry out bread faster.
Freezing: Slice and freeze in an airtight bag for up to 3 months; toast directly from frozen.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Slice – 12 slices)

Calories: ~180
Protein: 6g
Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g

Why This Loaf Works

This Sourdough Sandwich Loaf combines the flavor of naturally fermented sourdough with a soft, pillowy crumb that is perfect for slicing and spreading. The long fermentation enhances both texture and flavor, creating a bread that is more digestible and satisfying than quick-rise sandwich breads.

Serving Suggestions

Classic sandwiches with ham, cheese, or turkey
Toast with butter and jam for breakfast
Grilled cheese sandwiches
French toast for a decadent breakfast

Final Thoughts

A Sourdough Sandwich Loaf is the ultimate homemade bread: flavorful, versatile, and wholesome. With a soft interior and a slightly tangy taste, it’s perfect for everyday use or special occasions. Once you make your first loaf, you’ll never look at store-bought sandwich bread the same way again.