Description

A beginner-friendly, no-starter sourdough bread that uses yogurt and baking soda to mimic the tangy flavor of traditional sourdough without the weeks of prep. It is budget-friendly, forgiving, and perfect for breakfast toast.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups (375g) white all-purpose flour
1 cup (240g) plain yogurt (full-fat Greek or regular plain, unsweetened)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup (240ml) warm water
1.5 teaspoons salt (kosher or table)
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for brushing)
Flour for dusting
Seeds (sesame, poppy, or sunflower) for topping (optional)

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, yogurt, baking soda, salt, and honey (if using) until smooth. The mixture should be slightly bubbly.
Add the flour gradually, stirring until a shaggy, sticky dough forms. Do not overmix.
Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours until puffy.
Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a rectangle or oval. Place it seam-side down in the pan.
Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of this rise.
Score the top of the bread with a sharp knife and brush lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is deep golden brown. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
Remove from the pan and let cool completely on a rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.

Notes

Ensure baking soda is fresh by testing it with vinegar. Do not overmix the dough. Let the bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy center. This recipe can be doubled for freezing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 140
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 280
Fat: 2
Carbohydrates: 26
Fiber: 1
Protein: 4

Keywords: sourdough bread, no starter bread, easy bread recipe, budget friendly baking, yogurt bread, homemade bread, beginner baking