Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans – A Fall Favorite

If you’re a fan of both the comforting flavors of fall and the unique tang of sourdough, this Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans is a must-try. A beautiful blend of soft, fluffy bread with a hint of pumpkin, a touch of cinnamon, and the crunchy goodness of toasted pecans, this recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a perfect way to embrace the season. Perfectly balanced with sweetness and a slight sourdough tang, it’s sure to become a fall favorite for your family.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread

This Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans offers the best of both worlds: the moistness of pumpkin bread combined with the distinctive texture and flavor of sourdough. It’s an ideal recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy, seasonal bread that’s rich in flavor but still easy to make. Plus, it’s not just tasty—it’s versatile! You can use freshly roasted pumpkin or canned pumpkin puree depending on what’s available, and the result will always be a show-stopper. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this bread promises to impress.

Ingredients for Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread With Cinnamon and Pecans

• Sourdough Starter: A bubbly, well-fed starter is essential for a tangy flavor and rise in the bread.
• Roasted Pumpkin: Adds moisture and a mild sweetness to the bread.
• White Bread Flour: Provides structure and a soft, chewy texture.
• Warm Water: Helps activate the yeast in the sourdough starter.
• Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the cinnamon and pumpkin flavors.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Turmeric: A pinch of turmeric adds a beautiful golden color to the bread.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, making it perfect for fall.
• Pumpkin Puree: Used for the sweet filling, enhancing the pumpkin flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens the bread and adds a slight molasses flavor.
• Nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon and adds depth to the filling.
• Pecans: Crushed pecans give a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for variations or have dietary preferences, here are some simple swaps:

• Gluten-Free Flour: Swap out regular white bread flour with a gluten-free blend if you’re avoiding gluten.
• Honey: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweet note.
• Almonds: If you don’t have pecans, chopped almonds work beautifully as a substitute.
• Canned Pumpkin: In a pinch, you can use canned pumpkin puree for the same rich flavor, though fresh roasted pumpkin adds extra depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread With Cinnamon and Pecans

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine your active sourdough starter, roasted pumpkin, bread flour, warm water, maple syrup, turmeric, and cinnamon. Knead the mixture until it forms a uniform dough.
2. First Rest: Let the dough rest for about 45 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
3. Add Salt: Sprinkle the salt over the dough, then knead it in. Let it rest for another 30 minutes.
4. Stretch and Fold: Wet your countertop and hands. Gently stretch the dough out into a rectangle, then fold it over onto itself. Return the dough to the bowl with the seam side down and let it rest for another 30 minutes.
5. Prepare the Filling: While the dough rests, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and crushed pecans.
6. Add the Filling: After the dough has rested, stretch it out again and gently spread half of the sweet filling mixture over the dough. Fold the dough over to incorporate the filling.
7. Final Resting: Allow the dough to rest for 1 to 2 hours as it continues to rise.
8. Shape and Proof: Once the dough has risen, gently shape it into a loaf, and let it proof in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours.
9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the dough into a Dutch oven and bake for 35 minutes with the lid on. Afterward, remove the lid and bake for another 20-30 minutes until the bread is golden and crisp.
10. Cool: Allow the bread to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sourdough Pumpkin Bread

• Avoid Over-Proofing: Since this recipe contains sugar, your dough may rise faster than expected. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-proofing, which can result in a less sweet flavor.
• Stretch Gently: When incorporating the filling, be gentle with the dough. Stretching too hard can cause it to tear, making it harder to incorporate the cinnamon-pecan filling.
• Use a Dutch Oven: For the best crust, bake the bread in a preheated Dutch oven. This helps maintain a high, even heat and creates that irresistible golden crust.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While this Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans is delicious on its own, here are a few pairing ideas:

• Toppings: Try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or whipped butter on top for an extra creamy texture.
• Side Dishes: This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of warm soup, like a creamy butternut squash soup, for a cozy, fall meal.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin and cinnamon.

Seasonal, Healthful, and Delicious

This Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread is perfect for fall, using the season’s signature pumpkin flavor. Additionally, sourdough is known for its natural fermentation, which offers several potential health benefits like improved digestibility. The addition of cinnamon and pecans not only enhances the flavor but also provides antioxidants and healthy fats, making this a nourishing option for your next fall gathering.

Conclusion

This Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans is an irresistible treat that combines the tangy goodness of sourdough with the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, all wrapped up in a soft, golden loaf. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it with a cup of coffee or serve it at a holiday gathering, this bread is bound to impress. The combination of ingredients creates a unique flavor profile, and the process of baking it from scratch adds to the satisfaction of creating something truly special.

The recipe offers the perfect balance of sweetness and sourdough tang, making it a delightful addition to any kitchen. So, why not get baking and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of this delicious seasonal bread? Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Sourdough Bread: This recipe combines the heartiness of sourdough with the sweet and spicy notes of pumpkin and cinnamon. It’s perfect for those who love a rich, aromatic loaf with a delightful swirl of cinnamon throughout, making it a great alternative to the Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon and Pecans.
• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze: For a more indulgent option, this pumpkin bread is topped with a rich maple glaze. The combination of warm pumpkin flavors and the sweetness of maple syrup creates a perfectly moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to please those with a sweet tooth.
• Pumpkin Sourdough Bread: A simpler take on the pumpkin sourdough bread, this recipe focuses on the sourdough’s natural tang, complemented by the earthy, comforting taste of pumpkin. Ideal for those who enjoy the rustic flavors of sourdough with a hint of fall, it’s a great companion to soups or as a stand-alone treat.

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