Warmed sourdough bread, especially handmade bread, has a timeless and reassuring quality. Our favorite recipe at Thing Stories is a traditional sourdough loaf that has swiftly established itself as a breakfast mainstay. We frequently hear from pleased bakers that “this is one of our favorite breakfast breads, perfect for morning toasts,” they say. And we couldn’t be more in agreement.

Perfect for Beginners, Loved by Everyone

Why is this sourdough so unique? It’s more than just the taste. The recipe is easy to follow, flexible, and ideal for both novice and seasoned bakers. With less hydration and a large proportion of type 550 C/D wheat flour, this dough is manageable, does not adhere to surfaces, and yields a gorgeously shaped loaf with little effort. It’s the kind of bread even picky eaters and little ones love—crusty on the outside, soft inside, and full of character.

A Slice of Fun: Spot the Hidden Charm

Sourdough doesn’t just taste great — it looks delightfully unique too. Our kids love guessing what animal the bread slices resemble (hint: it has ears). Every loaf tells a story, and that’s what makes homemade bread so magical.

Don’t forget the setting and serve this rustic bread with your favorite jam, creamy avocado, or a little salted butter. A gorgeous table is worthy of a magnificent bread.

Serve it on a table covered with linen tea towel or napkin cloth or present it with a touch of homey elegance. Every home experience, especially those centered around food, should feel special, in our opinion at Thing Stories.

Create the Perfect Sourdough Moment with Linen

There’s nothing quite like enjoying fresh sourdough on a linen-covered table. Our naturally woven linen napkins and tablecloths, comfortable aprons, and tea towels are the perfect companions to your homemade baking ritual. They’re breathable, eco-friendly, and beautifully timeless — just like your favorite loaf.

Browse our home linen collection and turn every sourdough morning into a cozy, beautiful experience.

Why Sourdough Bread Is Better for You: Top Benefits

Sourdough bread is more than just a delicious, rustic loaf — it’s a healthier and more satisfying alternative to conventional bread. Thanks to its natural fermentation process, sourdough offers a unique combination of taste, texture, and wellness benefits that make it a favorite among bakers and food lovers alike.

Here are the top advantages of choosing sourdough bread:

• Easier to digest. Natural fermentation breaks down gluten and phytic acid, making it gentler on the stomach and easier to digest.
• Gut-friendly. Fermentation produces prebiotics and beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome.
• Lower glycemic index. Sourdough causes slower blood sugar spikes compared to regular bread, offering longer-lasting energy.
• More nutrient absorption. Fermentation increases the bioavailability of minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium.
• Naturally preserved. Its natural acidity helps prevent mold growth, giving it a longer shelf life without added preservatives.
• Superior flavor and texture. The slow rise creates a tangy, complex flavor with a perfectly crispy crust and soft interior.
• More filling. Rich in texture and nutrients, sourdough keeps you fuller for longer and helps reduce unnecessary snacking.

Sourdough bread brings together the best of tradition, health, and flavor — a simple pleasure that’s better for your body and your table.

Sourdough Bread Recipe

Baker’s Notes:

• Dry ingredients: 550 g
• Water: 350 g
• Hydration: 64%

Ingredients:

• 500 g flour
  • 70% wheat flour (type 550 C/D)
  • 30% bread flour (type 812 C/D)
• 110 g starter (levain)
• 300 g water
• 10 g salt

Process

1. Levain (starter) preparation

Use 10 g of active sourdough, 50 g flour, and 50 g water. Prepare the levain in the evening and let it ferment for about 12 hours overnight. It’s best to feed your existing starter in the morning (1:2:2 ratio) and prepare the levain at a 1:5:5 ratio.

2. Autolyse

Mix the flour and water. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let rest for at least 30 minutes until the levain is ready.

3. Mixing the main dough

Add the levain and salt (dissolved in 1–2 tablespoons of water) into the autolysed mixture. The dough may appear uneven at first, but it’s important to mix it until there are no large lumps or separated water.

4. Bulk fermentation (room temperature)

This stage includes three folds and rising, lasting around 5 hours depending on room temperature. Fold the dough every 30 minutes from each edge inward (4 folds total). After folding, let rise for about 3.5 hours.

5. Pre-shaping & basket prep

Place dough onto a clean, dry countertop. Use a dough scraper in one hand and slightly dampened hand in the other to form a tight ball by gently rotating it on the surface. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

While it rests, dust the proofing basket with rice or sifted rye flour.

6. Final shaping

Flip the dough upside down onto the work surface. Lightly flour it if it sticks. Stretch the dough into a triangle. Fold the top third down, forming a rectangle. Fold all sides inward crosswise. You’ll notice the sides bulging — fold them in too. Roll the dough from the top into a log. Pinch the ends and place seam-side up in the proofing basket. Optionally, pinch the seam to keep it sealed.

7. Cold fermentation

Cover the basket with a floured towel or place in a reusable plastic bag with a little air. Tie and refrigerate overnight.

8. Baking

Preheat the oven and baking vessel or stone for at least 30 minutes. When ready, gently invert the dough from the basket, score it for steam release, and bake in a preheated oven at 230°C (446°F):

• 20 minutes with lid on (or steam if open baking)
• 20–35 minutes uncovered or vented

Internal temperature should reach 96°C (204°F).

9. Cooling

Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to enjoy the full flavor profile.

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Whether you’re just beginning your sourdough journey or returning to a trusted favorite, this classic recipe brings ease, joy, and a touch of magic to your mornings. And when served with natural linen details—like our soft tea towels, comfortable aprons, or timeless tablecloths—every bite becomes part of a story. Let Thing Stories help you turn your kitchen into a place of comfort, beauty, and slow living, one loaf at a time.

Bring the warmth of homemade bread into your home and pair it with our thoughtfully crafted linen essentials—tea towels, aprons, and table linens designed for everyday beauty. Explore our collection and make your kitchen as cozy as your sourdough loaf.