Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

This Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread is a delightful treat that combines the tanginess of sourdough with a sweet cinnamon sugar swirl. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. The soft texture and aromatic spices make it a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: This recipe breaks down each step clearly, making it beginner-friendly.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it as toast, in French toast, or even as a dessert.
• Deliciously Sweet: The cinnamon sugar swirl adds a warm sweetness that complements the sourdough flavor.
• Great for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings or family breakfasts, this bread can serve many.
• Homemade Goodness: Baking your own bread ensures quality ingredients and freshness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything at hand will streamline your efforts.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Dough scraper
• Proofing basket
• Dutch oven
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Dutch oven: This tool helps create steam while baking, resulting in a crusty exterior.
• Proofing basket: It supports the dough during its final rise, helping it maintain shape.

Ingredients

This Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread is an easy, beginner-friendly loaf made with an active starter and sweet cinnamon sugar swirl. Perfect for morning toast or brunch.

For the Dough

• 1 ¼ cups + 2 tablespoons (330 grams) warm water (80-90℉)
• ½ cup (100 grams) active sourdough starter (or fresh discard (1-2 days old))
• 4 cups + 3 tablespoons (500 grams) bread flour
• 3 ½ teaspoons (10 grams) Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt (for Morton’s brand or table salt, use 1 ¾ teaspoons or weigh in grams)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl

• ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose or bread flour
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (plus more for dusting proofing basket (optional))

Additional Ingredients

• Rice flour (for dusting proofing basket)
• 2 ice cubes (for steam)

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

Step 1: Feed Your Starter

Feed your sourdough starter 6–12 hours before starting so it’s active, bubbly, and doubled in size. A warmer kitchen requires closer to 6 hours; a cooler one may take up to 12.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together warm water and the active starter.
2. Add the bread flour and salt.
3. Mix until a rough dough forms.
4. Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Stretch and Fold Technique

With lightly damp hands:
1. Perform one set of stretch-and-folds by lifting one edge of the dough.
2. Stretch it up as far as it can go without tearing, then fold over to the opposite side.
3. Rotate the bowl 90° and repeat around all four sides.
4. Gather into a rough ball and place seam-side down back in the bowl.
5. Cover and rest for another 20 minutes. Repeat this step three more times.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature until doubled in size—this can take anywhere from 4 to 12 hours depending on various factors.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together the granulated sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon.
2. Set aside for later use.

Step 6: Shape Your Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface:
1. Stretch gently into a rectangle.
2. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the surface.
3. Fold one long edge toward the center and sprinkle on part of the remaining sugar mixture before folding again.
4. Add remaining mixture before folding short edges like a letter.
5. Flip seam-side down on counter and round gently into a ball.

Step 7: Final Proofing

Place dough seam-side up in a rice flour-dusted proofing basket:
1. Pinch seams closed if necessary.
2. Cover and refrigerate overnight for about 12–16 hours.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

The next day:
1. Place a Dutch oven with its lid inside your oven.
2. Preheat to 450°F; let it heat an additional 30–45 minutes after reaching temperature.

Step 9: Bake

Flip dough onto parchment or bread sling:
1. Score top as desired before transferring to hot Dutch oven.
2. Drop in ice cubes for steam; cover quickly with lid.
3. Bake covered for 40 minutes; uncover and bake another 5–10 minutes until golden brown.

Step 10: Cool & Slice

Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least two hours before slicing to ensure proper texture!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Toast with Butter

• Spread a generous layer of butter on a warm slice for a rich and indulgent start to your day.

French Toast

• Dip slices in a mixture of eggs and milk, then cook on a skillet for a sweet twist on traditional French toast.

Cinnamon Sugar Bread Pudding

• Cut the bread into cubes and bake with a custard mixture for a comforting dessert that’s perfect warm.

Whipped Cream Cheese Spread

• Mix whipped cream cheese with honey and cinnamon to create a sweet spread that complements the bread beautifully.

Yogurt Parfait

• Layer pieces of the bread with yogurt and fresh fruits for a delicious breakfast or snack option.

Simple Snack

• Enjoy plain slices as an afternoon pick-me-up. The sweetness of the cinnamon sugar makes it satisfying on its own!

How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

Achieving the perfect Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread takes practice and attention. Here are some tips to help you master this delightful recipe.

• Use an active starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and has doubled in size before using it for best results.

• Temperature matters: Keep your dough in a warm place during rising to encourage good fermentation and a better rise.

• Don’t rush the rise: Allow ample time for the dough to rise until it’s doubled in size. Patience leads to better flavor and texture.

• Proper scoring: Score the top before baking to control how the bread expands in the oven, giving it an appealing look.

• Create steam: Adding ice cubes to the Dutch oven creates steam, which helps form a crispy crust while baking.

• Cool completely: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the texture inside for easier cutting.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

Pairing your Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread with complementary side dishes elevates your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that work well together.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bread perfectly.

2. Maple Syrup Drizzle
   Enhance each slice with a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness and flavor depth.

3. Nut Butter Variety
   Serve different nut butters (like almond or cashew) for spreading, adding protein and richness alongside sweetness.

4. Chai-Spiced Tea
   A warm cup of chai tea complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully while providing comforting warmth.

5. Herbed Cream Cheese Dip
   This savory option balances out the sweetness when served alongside slices, creating an interesting flavor contrast.

6. Coconut Yogurt with Honey
   This creamy side pairs well, offering tanginess to offset the sweet notes from the bread.

7. Smoothie Bowl
   A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with granola provides crunch while complementing your sourdough delight nicely.

8. Caramelized Bananas
   Sweet bananas cooked until golden add another layer of flavor that harmonizes wonderfully with cinnamon sugar bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread can be fun, but it’s easy to stumble on a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring Starter Activity: Always ensure your sourdough starter is active before using it. A weak starter will lead to flat bread. Feed it 6–12 hours prior for best results.

• Skipping the Rest Periods: Don’t rush the dough by skipping rest periods. These allow gluten to develop, resulting in a better texture. Follow the timings in the recipe for optimal results.

• Overflouring the Surface: While it’s tempting to add lots of flour while shaping, excessive flour can dry out the dough. Use just enough flour to prevent sticking.

• Not Scoring the Dough: Failing to score your dough can lead to uneven rising and cracking during baking. Make shallow cuts with a sharp knife to control how it expands.

• Opening the Oven Too Soon: Avoid opening the oven door during the first half of baking. This lets heat escape and can affect the rise and crust quality of your bread.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread in an airtight container.
• item It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

• item Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• item Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes for a crispy crust.
• Microwave: Heat slices for about 15-20 seconds, but note that this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes per side for a toasted finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread.

How do I make my own sourdough starter?

To create a sourdough starter, mix equal parts of flour and water and let it sit at room temperature, feeding it daily until bubbly and active—usually about 5-7 days.

Can I substitute different flours in this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with whole wheat flour or spelt flour, but keep in mind that this may affect texture and flavor.

How can I customize my Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread?

Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into your dough before shaping for added flavor and texture.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, check that your sourdough starter was active enough when you mixed it in. Also, ensure your kitchen is warm enough for fermentation.

Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

While a Dutch oven helps create steam for crust formation, you can use any heavy pot with a lid or even bake it on a baking sheet with water on another pan below.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Bread is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! Enjoy it as breakfast toast, serve it at brunch, or use it in inventive recipes like French toast. Customize your loaf with different spices or add-ins to make it uniquely yours!