If you’re craving something that captures the essence of autumn in every bite, you have to try our Pumpkin Spice Sourdough. This delicious bread combines the tangy depth of traditional sourdough with a cozy blend of pumpkin and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. With a golden crust and a soft, aromatic crumb, this recipe is the perfect seasonal treat to bake, share, and savor on chilly mornings or laid-back afternoons.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and Inviting Flavors: The pumpkin and spice blend brings comforting autumn vibes straight to your kitchen.
- Natural Tangy Goodness: The sourdough starter delivers a rich, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Versatile and Nutritious: Packed with pumpkin, it adds moisture and nutrients without compromising the bread’s hearty texture.
- Perfect for Any Skill Level: Whether you’re a sourdough pro or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
- Great for Sharing or Gifting: The stunning golden loaf makes a wonderful homemade gift or centerpiece at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines through with simple, wholesome ingredients that complement one another beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s building flavor, texture, or that perfect autumn color.
- Sourdough Starter: The backbone of your bread, delivering natural yeast and that signature tangy taste.
- Pumpkin Puree: Adds moistness, subtle sweetness, and a lovely orange hue.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and works perfectly with the sourdough fermentation.
- Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves blend to create the classic pumpkin spice character.
- Salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the gluten network in the dough.
- Water: Hydrates the dough, activating the starter, and helps develop the crumb.
Variations for Pumpkin Spice Sourdough
Feel free to make this Pumpkin Spice Sourdough your own! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, whether to suit dietary needs or simply to experiment with flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for sourdough baking.
- Sweetened Loaf: Add natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a sweeter twist.
- Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Vegan Version: Ensure your starter is plant-based and swap honey for maple syrup or agave.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount and type of spices based on your preference for more or less warmth.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sourdough
Step 1: Prepare the Sourdough Starter
Feed your active starter about 4-6 hours before starting to bake, ensuring it’s bubbly and lively for a strong rise.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your flour, warm spices, and salt to evenly distribute the flavors.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin Puree and Water
Mix the pumpkin puree and water into the dry ingredients until a loose dough forms, incorporating the natural moisture of the pumpkin.
Step 4: Add the Starter and Knead
Fold in your sourdough starter and knead gently until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, around 10 minutes by hand or 6 minutes with a stand mixer.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it ferment at room temperature for 4-6 hours, allowing those wonderful flavors to develop.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Gently deflate your dough, shape into a tight round loaf, and place it into a floured banneton or bowl for the final proof.
Step 7: Final Proof
Let the dough proof for another 2-3 hours at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor and easier handling.
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a Dutch oven inside, then bake the dough covered for 20 minutes, remove the lid, and bake for another 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the loaf to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to let the crumb set and flavors settle.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Sourdough
- Use a Well-Fed Starter: Make sure your starter is active and bubbly for the best rise and flavor.
- Don’t Skip Autolyse: Letting the flour and water sit before adding starter boosts gluten development.
- Control Hydration: Pumpkin puree adds moisture—adjust water amounts accordingly to maintain dough consistency.
- Watch Your Proof Times: Overproofing can lead to a flat loaf, so keep an eye on your dough’s volume.
- Score Creatively: Use a sharp blade to slash the dough and let it expand beautifully while baking.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sourdough
Garnishes
A light spread of cinnamon honey butter or cream cheese pairs beautifully to enhance the pumpkin spice notes.
Side Dishes
Serve slices alongside a hot bowl of butternut squash soup or a cozy apple chutney for an authentic autumn meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your loaf into delicious pumpkin spice sourdough toast topped with avocado, nut butter, or seasonal jams for breakfast or snacks that wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your pumpkin spice sourdough in a paper bag or bread box at room temperature for up to three days to retain crustiness.
Freezing
Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to preserve freshness for up to two months.
Reheating
Refresh your bread by warming slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked texture and aroma.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent, but you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin for an even fresher taste.
What if I don’t have a sourdough starter?
You can start one from scratch, buy a ready-made starter, or try substituting with commercial yeast, though the flavor will differ.
How long does the dough take to rise?
Usually between 4 to 6 hours for the first rise and 2 to 3 hours for the final proof, but timing varies depending on room temperature.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, use a certified gluten-free sourdough starter and a gluten-free flour blend designed for bread baking for best results.
What’s the best way to store leftover bread?
Store at room temperature in a breathable container like a paper bag to keep the crust crisp and the crumb soft for a few days.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Spice Sourdough is a truly special bread that captures the warmth and sweetness of fall in every slice. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and utterly delicious, it’s the perfect recipe to cozy up your kitchen and delight family and friends. So go ahead—bake a loaf today and taste the magic of autumn with every bite!