Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful bread that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, then this Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread is just what you need! The combination of crisp crust, subtly sweet maple flavor, and crunchy pecans makes it a standout choice for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack. I love making this bread on weekends when the whole family is around; the aroma fills the kitchen and invites everyone to gather together.

This recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients to create something truly delicious. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with butter or serving it alongside your favorite soups, this Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread is sure to impress friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can master this bread even if you’re new to sourdough.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive gathering, this bread fits right in.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The nutty pecans combined with the sweetness of maple syrup create an irresistible taste you’ll crave.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it fresh whenever you’re ready!
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the comforting flavors; kids will enjoy it just as much as adults!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delicious Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather everything you need for this cozy baking adventure!

For the Dough

• 35 grams sourdough starter (ripe and active, about 2 Tablespoons)
• 35 grams all-purpose flour (about 1/4 cup)
• 35 grams water (about 2 Tablespoons)
• 100 grams levain (ripe, bubbly and active, scant 1/2 cup)
• 300 grams water (about 1 1/4 cup)
• 100 grams maple syrup (about 1/3 cup)
• 4 grams maple extract (optional, about 1 teaspoon – see recipe notes)
• 50 grams whole wheat flour (about 1/3 cup)
• 450 grams bread flour (about 3 1/4 cups)
• 10 grams salt (about 1.5 teaspoons)
• 150 grams chopped pecans (about 1 1/3 cups)

Variations

One of the best things about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to make this Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread your own with these fun variations:

• Add Dried Fruit: Try incorporating dried cranberries or apricots for an extra burst of flavor.
• Change the Nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for a different nutty experience.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist that pairs beautifully with maple.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blends; just make sure they are suitable for breadmaking.

How to Make Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Starters

Begin by combining your ripe sourdough starter with all-purpose flour and water. This mixture will help activate your leavening process. Let it sit until bubbly—this usually takes about an hour. This step is essential because it infuses your bread with that signature sourdough tang.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine your prepared starter with levain, water, maple syrup, and optional maple extract. Stir in whole wheat flour followed by bread flour gradually. Mixing them together helps develop gluten which gives your bread structure. Once combined, let it rest for about 30 minutes before adding salt.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Gently knead in salt until fully incorporated. Kneading helps build strength in dough so that your loaf rises beautifully during baking. Aim for about 10 minutes of kneading until the dough feels smooth and elastic.

Step 4: Add Pecans

Fold in the chopped pecans gently into your dough. This creates pockets of crunchiness throughout the loaf! After mixing them in evenly, shape your dough into a ball.

Step 5: First Rise

Place your shaped dough in a lightly greased bowl covered with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise at room temperature until doubled in size—this usually takes around two hours depending on your kitchen’s warmth.

Step 6: Shape and Second Rise

Once doubled, gently punch down the dough to release air bubbles and shape it into a loaf again. Place it into your prepared loaf pan or on parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover again for another hour-long rise.

Step 7: Bake Your Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once ready, pop your loaf into the oven and bake for around 45 minutes until golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 8: Cool Down Before Slicing

Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This waiting period allows flavors to settle in perfectly—patience pays off here!

Enjoy every crumb of your homemade Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread! Each slice will bring comfort and joy to your table.

Pro Tips for Making Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread

Baking sourdough bread can be a delightful adventure, and a few pro tips can help you achieve the perfect loaf every time!

• Use a ripe starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is at its peak activity for the best rise and flavor. A bubbly, active starter will give your bread that lovely texture and tang.
• Measure accurately: Baking is a science! Using a kitchen scale to measure your ingredients will ensure consistency and improve your results.
• Let it rest: Allowing your dough to rest during the mixing process helps develop gluten and enhances the bread’s overall texture. Don’t rush this step; patience pays off with better bread!
• Monitor dough temperature: Aim for a dough temperature around 75°F (24°C) after mixing. This ensures proper fermentation and rise, leading to a beautifully risen loaf.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to adjust the amount of pecans or even add other nuts or seeds to create your unique flavor profile. Just remember to balance them with the liquid ingredients!

How to Serve Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread

This Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread is not only delicious but also versatile! Whether you enjoy it toasted for breakfast or as part of a cozy dinner spread, there are plenty of ways to present this delightful loaf.

Garnishes

• Butter or Vegan Spread: A simple slather of butter or your favorite plant-based spread enhances the bread’s flavor and adds a creamy richness.
• Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds an extra touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with maple.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on top for an aromatic finish.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Avocado Toast: Top slices of the bread with smashed avocado, salt, and pepper for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
• Seasonal Vegetable Soup: Pairing this sweet, nutty loaf with a warm bowl of vegetable soup creates a comforting combination perfect for chilly days.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the bread while adding freshness.
• Fruit Compote: Serve alongside a spoonful of homemade fruit compote for an added layer of sweetness that complements the maple flavor beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread in various delightful ways! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread is perfect for meal prep and can easily become a staple in your home. You can bake a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, whether you toast it for breakfast or use it for sandwiches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in a bread box to keep it fresh longer.

Freezing

• Slice the bread before freezing for easy access.
• Place slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually.
• Once frozen, transfer slices to a zip-top freezer bag and remove as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, use a toaster or toaster oven until warm and crispy.
• For thawing, simply let slices sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before reheating.
• If reheating a whole loaf, wrap in foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about making your own Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread?

Absolutely! While pecans add a lovely flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or hazelnuts if you prefer. Just chop them roughly and add them to the dough.

What makes this Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread special?

The blend of maple syrup and chopped pecans creates a delightful sweetness and nutty flavor that elevates traditional sourdough. This unique twist makes it perfect for breakfast or as an accompaniment to cozy dinners.

How long does it take to make Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 1525 minutes including prep time, but most of that is passive time while the dough rises. Plan ahead so you can enjoy this delicious loaf fresh from the oven!

Can I add more maple syrup to my Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread?

Yes! If you’re looking for extra sweetness, feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup according to your taste. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid overall.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Maple Pecan Sourdough Bread! It’s not just about creating something delicious; it’s about sharing moments with loved ones around the table. Whether enjoyed fresh or toasted, this bread is sure to bring warmth and comfort. Happy baking!