Pin it
This classic sourdough bread features a delightful swirl of homemade cinnamon honey butter throughout. The tender crumb and crusty exterior create the perfect texture, while the natural fermentation adds depth and character to every slice.
Key Ingredients
- Bread Flour: High protein flour (12-13%) provides structure and chewiness
- Sourdough Starter: Active, mature starter at peak rise
- Honey: Natural sweetener that helps retain moisture
- Unsalted Butter: High-fat European style for richness
- Ground Cinnamon: Fresh ground for best flavor
- Sea Salt: Enhances flavors throughout
- Vanilla Extract: Pure extract adds depth
- Water: Filtered for consistent results
- Confectioner's Sugar: For smooth butter filling
Preparation Steps
- Prepare Starter:
- Feed starter 8-12 hours ahead. Mix equal parts starter, water, flour at 70-75°F until doubled.
- Mix Dough:
- Autolyse flour and water 30 minutes. Add starter and salt, mix to shaggy dough. Rest 30 minutes.
- Develop Strength:
- Stretch and fold every 30 minutes for 2 hours until elastic.
- Bulk Rise:
- Let rise 4-6 hours until doubled with visible bubbles.
- Make Filling:
- Beat butter until fluffy. Mix in honey, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth.
- Shape Loaf:
- Roll dough flat, spread filling, roll up tightly and seal edges.
- Final Proof:
- Proof in banneton 8-12 hours in refrigerator.
- Bake:
- Preheat Dutch oven at 450°F. Score dough, bake covered 25 minutes, uncovered 15-20 minutes to golden brown.
Pin it
Cooling
Cool completely on wire rack for 2 hours minimum. Listen for crust crackling. Do not cut while hot to prevent gummy texture.
Storage
Keep at room temperature in cloth bag up to 3 days. Freeze sliced with parchment between pieces for longer storage. Avoid refrigeration.
Serving
Use serrated knife to slice when fully cooled. Serve on wooden board with extra cinnamon honey butter. Warm slightly before serving for special occasions.
Recipe Variations
Add nutmeg and cloves for fall flavors. Mix cocoa into butter for chocolate version. Include dried fruits or toasted nuts in filling. Substitute maple syrup for honey.
Pin it
This enriched sourdough combines traditional bread making with sweet comfort flavors. The natural fermentation and honey butter create an irresistible loaf perfect for any time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why does this recipe need so much fermentation time?
- Fermenting for 10–14 hours enhances the tangy sourdough taste and creates the structure needed for ideal rising.
- → Can I swap sourdough starter with commercial yeast?
- This recipe’s designed around sourdough starter. Switching to yeast would require major adjustments.
- → What’s the purpose of chilling the dough?
- Cooling helps stiffen the butter, making the dough easier to work with and ensuring proper flaky layers.
- → How do I bake this without a Dutch oven?
- You’ll need to create steam. Place a pan of hot water in your oven and use a standard bread pan for baking.
- → Can I prepare this dough ahead of time?
- Absolutely, just refrigerate it during the cold proof stage for up to 24 hours to fit your schedule.