Sourdough Beer Bread Recipe: A Flavorful Artisan Loaf

Sourdough Beer Bread Recipe: A Flavorful Artisan Loaf

Written by: Home Bakers

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Published on

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Time to read 2 min

Sourdough Beer Bread Recipe: A Flavorful Artisan Loaf Posted by Home Bakers | November 2024

The Perfect Loaf for Bread Lovers

Have you ever wondered what happens when you combine the tangy goodness of sourdough with the malty richness of beer? Magic! This sourdough beer bread is a flavor-packed loaf that's perfect for family dinners, hearty breakfasts, or even a cozy snack with butter and jam. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your sourdough journey, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to baking success.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines sourdough tanginess with the depth of beer.
  • A perfect project for weekend baking.
  • Family-friendly and versatile – pair it with soups, stews, or your favorite spreads.
  • Easy-to-follow instructions for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Ingredients: What You'll Need

Levain:

  • 10g active sourdough starter
  • 50g all-purpose flour
  • 50g water

Main Dough:

  • 500g bread flour
  • 200g beer (lager or ale works best)
  • 100g water
  • 100g active levain
  • 10g salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Levain (Night Before, 9:00 PM)

Combine your starter, flour, and water in a small bowl. Cover and leave it at room temperature overnight (8-12 hours). By morning, your levain should be bubbly and ready to use.

Step 2: Mix the Dough (Next Day, 9:00 AM)

In a large bowl, mix the bread flour, beer, water, and levain until just combined. Cover and let the mixture rest for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Add Salt and Knead (9:30 AM)

Sprinkle the salt evenly over the dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Bulk Fermentation (9:45 AM - 1:45 PM)

Let the dough ferment, covered, for about 4 hours. Perform 3 sets of stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes to build strength and structure.

Step 5: Shape and Proof (2:00 PM - 5:15 PM)

Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and place it in a proofing basket or a bowl lined with a floured kitchen towel. Let the dough proof at room temperature for about 3 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 6: Bake (5:30 PM)

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a baking stone or Dutch oven inside. Carefully transfer your dough to the hot surface, score the top, and bake:

  • 20 minutes covered to trap steam.
  • 20-25 minutes uncovered for a golden, crispy crust.

Step 7: Cool

Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy the amazing aroma filling your kitchen!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

  • Choose the Right Beer: Use a beer with flavors you love – darker beers add depth, while lighter lagers keep it mild.
  • Crust Perfection: Brush the crust with melted butter after baking for a softer, golden finish.
  • Storage Tip: Keep the bread in a breathable bag to maintain its crusty exterior while keeping the inside soft.

Why Home Bakers Loves This Recipe

This sourdough beer bread is more than just a recipe; it's an experience. The process of fermenting, shaping, and baking is deeply rewarding. And the end result? A loaf that tastes as incredible as it looks. At Home Bakers, we're all about making artisan baking approachable for everyone.

Share Your Creations

We'd love to see your sourdough beer bread! Share your photos on Instagram with #HomeBakers and tag us @HomeBakersOfficial for a chance to be featured.

Related Recipes

  • Classic Sourdough Starter Guide
  • Soft Sourdough Pretzels
  • Sourdough Pizza Crust

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