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Amish Sourdough Bread Starter Recipe

Unlock the secrets of amazing homemade bread with this heirloom Amish sourdough starter recipe! Passed down through generations, this starter takes just 10 days to ferment, then you're ready to bake delicious loaves, doughnuts, cinnamon buns, and more! The slightly sweet starter (don't worry, the bread won't be sweet!) provides the perfect base for incredible flavor. Once your starter is ready, share the tradition by gifting it to loved ones or freeze portions for future baking adventures. Get ready to experience the unparalleled taste and texture of truly authentic sourdough!

Prep Time 0 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 275.9 kcal
Protein 12g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Amish Sourdough Bread Starter 101

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Amish Sourdough Bread Starter

  • 2 packages (4 1/2 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • Honey (not used in this recipe)
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • Eggs (not used in this recipe)
  • Whole Wheat Flour (not used in this recipe)
  • Egg White (not used in this recipe)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

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How to Make Amish Sourdough Bread Starter

  1. Day 1-10: Prepare the Starter (see detailed instructions in the starter section below)
  2. Once the starter is ready, combine 1 cup of active starter with 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast in a large bowl.
  3. Add 1 cup warm water (105-115°F) and stir until the yeast is dissolved.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 cup starter.
  5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  7. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  8. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.
  9. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  10. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Bake for 60-80 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  12. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

7 g

Sugar

85g

Fat

5g

Carbs

18g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Sweets & Sides Side Dishes American Vegetarian Vegan Baking

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Main Ingredient Preparation For Large Groups Healthy Dietary Low Cholesterol Healthy 2 Low In Something Pasta Rice And Grains Number Of Servings 4 Hours Or Less