Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of fall. This recipe combines the tangy notes of sourdough with warm spices and rich pumpkin puree, making it perfect for cozy breakfasts or as a festive side dish during gatherings. Its unique flavor profile and inviting aroma will fill your kitchen with the spirit of autumn, making it an ideal choice for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any family gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is approachable for all skill levels.
- Versatile Uses: Enjoy it as a breakfast toast, a side at dinner, or even as a base for delicious sandwiches.
- Cozy Aroma: Baking this bread fills your home with an inviting scent that makes everyone feel welcome.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it great for family gatherings or potlucks.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment on hand will make your baking experience enjoyable and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Kitchen scale
- Dough scraper
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
- Kitchen scale: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time.
- Dough scraper: Helps in handling sticky dough and shaping loaves with ease.
Ingredients
Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe: Golden Sourdough Bread Recipe with Warm Fall Spices and Pumpkin Puree.
For the Dough
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup Filtered Water (luke warm to speed things up, cold to slow things down)
- 1/2 Cup Inactive Sourdough Starter (mine was pulled from refrigerator)
- 95 Grams Active Sourdough Starter
- 390 Grams Filtered Water
- 100 Grams Pumpkin Puree
- 530 Grams Bread Flour
- 2 Tsps Fine Sea Salt
- 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 Tbsp Pumpkin Spice
- 1/4 Cup Sugar
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Starters
Mix together your inactive and active sourdough starters in a large bowl. Let them sit at room temperature until bubbly and active.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the lukewarm filtered water and pumpkin puree. Stir well until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, bread flour, fine sea salt, ground cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and sugar. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the prepared starters. Mix using your hands or a spatula until no dry flour remains visible.
Step 5: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 6: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 2 hours).
Step 7: Shape the Loaf
Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a loaf and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 8: Final Rise
Cover again with a cloth and allow it to rise for another hour or until puffy.
Step 9: Preheat Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 10: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach around 190°F (88°C).
Enjoy your freshly baked Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread! This recipe not only fills your home with warmth but also brings smiles to all who taste it.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
This delicious Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread is perfect for any fall gathering or cozy breakfast at home. Its warm spices and pumpkin flavor make it an inviting addition to your table.
Toast with Butter
- Toast slices of the sourdough and spread with butter for a simple yet delightful treat.
French Toast
- Dip slices in a mixture of eggs and milk, then cook on a skillet for a festive twist on classic French toast.
Pair with Cream Cheese
- Serve with whipped cream cheese mixed with honey for a sweet and creamy topping that complements the spices.
Enjoy with Jam
- Spread your favorite fruit jam, such as apple or fig, for a sweet contrast to the pumpkin flavors.
Serve as a Side
- Use this bread as a side dish for soups or salads during autumn dinners, adding warmth to your meal.
Create Sandwiches
- Layer slices with turkey and cranberry sauce for a seasonal sandwich that’s perfect around Thanksgiving.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Creating the perfect Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bread turns out wonderfully every time.
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Use active starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before using it in the recipe for better rise and flavor.
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Monitor dough temperature: Keep an eye on the dough’s temperature while mixing. A warmer dough helps fermentation, leading to fluffier bread.
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Knead well: Proper kneading develops gluten, which is essential for structure. Ensure you knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
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Let it rise properly: Allow enough time for the dough to rise until doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving that airy texture.
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Bake in a preheated oven: Preheat your oven thoroughly before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps create a beautiful crust.
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Cool before slicing: Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This step allows the interior to set properly, preventing gummy slices.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.
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Spiced Apple Soup: A warm, velvety soup made from apples and spices that pairs wonderfully with the bread’s flavor profile.
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Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: A salad featuring roasted squash, greens, and nuts adds crunch and sweetness alongside the soft bread.
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Creamy Potato Soup: The richness of a creamy potato soup creates a comforting combination when served with pumpkin spice bread.
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Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These savory-sweet sprouts enhance the autumn flavors while providing textural contrast.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce balances out the sweetness of the bread, making it ideal during holiday meals.
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Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like sharp cheddar or goat cheese for an elevated snacking experience alongside warm slices of sourdough.
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Autumn Vegetable Medley: Roasted root vegetables seasoned with herbs offer hearty satisfaction that complements every bite of bread.
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Pumpkin Chili: A bowl of hearty pumpkin chili warms you up and provides a robust pairing bursting with flavor contrasts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the perfect Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring starter activity: Always use an active sourdough starter. If it’s been in the fridge, feed it a day before baking to ensure it’s bubbly and ready.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can break down gluten structure. Gently knead until just combined for a better texture.
- Skipping the autolyse: This step helps develop gluten and flavor. Allow your mixed flour and water to rest before adding the starter and salt for best results.
- Inaccurate measurements: Baking is a science, so using a kitchen scale for ingredients ensures accuracy, especially with flour and liquids.
- Not letting it proof enough: Insufficient proofing can lead to dense bread. Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for optimal lightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- It stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then warm bread for about 10-15 minutes wrapped in foil.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds per slice; watch closely to avoid drying out.
- Stovetop: Toast slices on medium heat until golden brown and warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add extra flavor but may change the texture slightly.
How do I know when my bread is done?
The bread should have a golden crust and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of around 200°F (93°C) indicates doneness.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try adding a little more flour during mixing or kneading. Avoid adding too much, as this can dry out the bread.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products.
Final Thoughts
This delightful Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe combines cozy fall spices with the tangy goodness of sourdough. It’s perfect as breakfast or as a side dish at your Thanksgiving table. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits for extra flavor!

Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of autumn with this delightful Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe. This homemade bread masterfully combines the tangy essence of sourdough with rich pumpkin puree and a blend of warm spices, creating a comforting treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you savor it as breakfast toast, a festive side dish during Thanksgiving, or an inviting snack alongside your favorite jam, this bread will fill your home with an irresistible aroma that captures the spirit of fall. Its airy texture and unique flavor profile make it an ideal choice for gatherings or quiet moments at home.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup Filtered Water (lukewarm)
- 1/2 Cup Inactive Sourdough Starter
- 95 Grams Active Sourdough Starter
- 100 Grams Pumpkin Puree
- 530 Grams Bread Flour
- 2 Tsps Fine Sea Salt
- 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 Tbsp Pumpkin Spice
- 1/4 Cup Sugar
Instructions
- Combine inactive and active sourdough starters in a large bowl; let sit until bubbly.
- Mix lukewarm water and pumpkin puree in another bowl until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, bread flour, salt, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and sugar.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients along with starters; mix until no dry flour remains.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl; cover and let rise until doubled (about 2 hours).
- Shape into a loaf and transfer to parchment-lined baking sheet; let rise again for about one hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg