Cozy Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Recipes to Try

If you’re craving something that wraps you in all the warmth and spice of fall, look no further than the Pumpkin Spice Sourdough. This cozy loaf combines the tangy charm of sourdough with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making for a delightful seasonal treat. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or a pumpkin spice lover, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds in a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a cozy afternoon tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Fall Flavor: Pumpkin spice adds a seasonal twist that makes every bite feel like autumn in your home.
• Naturally Tangy: The sourdough base gives a unique depth of flavor that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Moist and Hearty: Thanks to pumpkin puree, the bread stays soft and satisfying longer than regular loaves.
• Versatile Use: Great for toasting, sandwiches, or simply enjoying plain with butter or cream cheese.
• Homemade Comfort: Baking this at home fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but bring all the magic together — from the natural earthiness of pure pumpkin to the distinctive tang of sourdough starter, each component enhances the final loaf’s texture, flavor, or color.

• Flour: Use high-quality bread flour for that perfect chew and rise.
• Sourdough Starter: A healthy, active starter provides the signature sour tang and natural leavening.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, beautiful orange color, and that classic pumpkin sweetness.
• Pumpkin Spice Blend: A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger, this mix brings in the quintessential fall warmth.
• Warm Water: Helps activate the starter and support proper dough fermentation.
• Salt: Brings balance and brings all the flavors together.
• Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness to complement the spices and pumpkin notes.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice Sourdough

Feel free to customize your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough to suit your tastes or dietary needs — this recipe is flexible and invites your creativity.

• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Try a blend of gluten-free flours and xanthan gum to make it approachable for gluten-sensitive bakers.
• Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra fall flair.
• Sweet Raisins or Cranberries: Add dried fruit for subtle sweetness and chewy texture throughout the bread.
• Vegan Option: Replace honey or syrup with maple syrup and ensure your starter feed is vegan-friendly.
• Spice Variations: Experiment with cardamom, allspice, or ground ginger to tweak the pumpkin spice profile.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sourdough

Step 1: Prepare Your Starter

Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly, ideally fed 4-6 hours before mixing, for optimal rise and flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Combine the pumpkin puree, warm water, and brown sugar (or maple syrup) in a large bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Incorporate your bread flour, pumpkin spice blend, and salt into the wet mixture gradually, stirring to form a sticky dough.

Step 4: Incorporate the Starter

Add your active sourdough starter to the dough and mix thoroughly, ensuring even distribution for proper fermentation.

Step 5: First Rise

Cover the bowl and let the dough ferment at room temperature for 4-6 hours, until doubled in size and bubbly on the surface.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oblong loaf, being gentle to preserve the air bubbles.

Step 7: Second Rise

Place the shaped dough into a proofing basket or bowl lined with a floured cloth. Let it rise again for 2 hours or until puffed.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Transfer the dough carefully into the hot Dutch oven, score the top, cover, and bake for 20 minutes covered, then another 20-25 minutes uncovered until golden brown.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Allow your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough to cool completely on a wire rack to set the crumb and bring out the flavors fully.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Sourdough

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps the dough ferment evenly and speeds up rising time.
• Keep an Eye on Hydration: Pumpkin puree adds moisture, so adjust water amounts accordingly for perfect dough consistency.
• Don’t Rush the Fermentation: Allowing a slow, thorough rise develops better flavor and texture.
• Score the Dough Deeply: This helps control how your bread expands in the oven and creates stunning, rustic patterns.
• Use a Dutch Oven: Trapping steam creates a crusty exterior and soft interior, ideal for sourdough.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sourdough

Garnishes

Add a light spread of cinnamon butter or a drizzle of honey on warm slices to enhance the pumpkin spice notes deliciously.

Side Dishes

Pair this bread with soups like butternut squash bisque, creamy pumpkin soup, or a sharp cheddar cheese for a classic fall combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn slices into French toast, top with fresh fruit and whipped cream, or use for open-faced sandwiches with seasonal toppings like roasted apples or cranberry sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough in an airtight container or bread box at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It preserves well for up to 3 months — just thaw overnight before use.

Reheating

Warm slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh the texture and flavor without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is convenient, just be sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling which contains added sugars and spices.

How long does the Pumpkin Spice Sourdough keep fresh?

Stored properly at room temperature, it stays fresh for about 3 days, but you can extend its life by freezing any extra loaf.

Do I need a sourdough starter to make this bread?

This recipe relies on a sourdough starter for natural leavening and flavor, but you could experiment by using yeast if you’re in a pinch.

Can I make this bread sweeter?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup slightly to suit your sweetness preference, or add dried fruits for natural sweetness.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

While it involves sourdough fermentation, the step-by-step process is straightforward and rewarding for anyone ready to dive into cozy baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking your own Pumpkin Spice Sourdough, especially when the air is crisp and you want that perfect fall flavor to fill your kitchen. This recipe is a cozy hug in bread form — approachable, delicious, and inviting you to savor every bite. Give it a try, and watch your home transform with the warmth and magic of autumn in every slice!

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