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fresh baked sourdough French bread loaves

Sourdough French Bread

Soft and delicious sourdough french bread made with discard and baked the same day.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting time 6 hours
Course Side Dish
Cuisine French
Servings 10

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Stand mixer (this is optional, but makes it much easier)
  • measuring cups
  • measuring spoons
  • Sharp knife
  • Sheet pan
  • parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 c sourdough starter discard
  • 2 tsp sea salt
  • 2 c warm water
  • 7 c all purpose flour (You may not use all of it)
  • 1 egg white (optional)
  • 1 tsp water (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer combine starter discard, salt, and water. Stir to combine.
  • Add 6 ½ c flour and mix to incorporate. Dough should look quite dry and stiff.
  • Continue mixing/kneading for 5-7 minutes.
  • Cover with a damp towel and place in a warm spot to rise for 5-6 hours until doubled in size.
  • Form into loaves, score, and cover with a damp towel in a warm spot to rise for an additional 1½-2 hours. *See note for optional egg wash
  • Bake in a 350℉ oven for 25-30 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 180℉.
  • Allow at least 30 minutes for loaves to cool before slicing.

Notes

*If you want a glossy crust, mix 1 tsp cold water and 1 egg white and brush it over the top of the bread immediately before baking.
For a softer crust, cover with a damp towel after removing from the oven.
Keyword bread, discard, same day sourdough, sourdough