20 Delicious Overnight Sourdough Recipes for Beginners

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you a beginner looking to dive into the world of sourdough baking? Look no further! The art of making delicious, crusty bread can seem intimidating at first, but with these 20 scrumptious overnight sourdough recipes, you’ll be whipping up loaves like a pro in no time. And the best part? You don’t even need to wake up in the middle of the night to do it!

Overnight sourdough baking is all about simplicity and convenience. Simply mix your ingredients together, let them sit for a few hours or overnight, and voila! You’ll have a perfectly baked loaf with that signature tangy flavor and chewy texture.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that cater to beginners and advanced bakers alike. From classic breads to creative twists, you’ll find something to satisfy your sourdough cravings.

Let’s get started on our culinary journey!

Classic Overnight Sourdough Bread

Discover the simplicity of sourdough bread-making with this tried-and-true recipe, yielding a crusty loaf with a tangy flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter and water to create a smooth batter.
2. Add the bread flour and mix until just combined, forming a shaggy dough.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let the mixture rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. The next day, add salt and knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf, place it in a lightly floured basket or proofing box, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Score the bread and bake for 35-40 minutes.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2 days (24 hours + 35-40 minutes baking time)

No-Knead Overnight Sourdough Boule

This recipe yields a deliciously crusty sourdough boule with minimal effort and time commitment, perfect for busy bakers. With the magic of no-knead dough and an overnight fermentation period, you’ll be rewarded with a bread that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, bread flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature (around 70°F to 75°F) for 12 hours.
3. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
4. Gently shape the dough into a round boule, place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and score the top.
5. Bake the boule for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Overnight Sourdough Sandwich Loaf

Transform your breakfast routine with this game-changing overnight sourdough sandwich loaf recipe. By letting the dough rest and ferment for 8 hours, you’ll get a tender, slightly tangy bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp water

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, all-purpose flour, and whole wheat flour. Mix until just combined.
2. Add the salt and water, then mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature (68°F – 72°F) for 8 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
5. Place the loaf onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Crusty Overnight Sourdough Batard

Transform your kitchen with the rich flavors of a crusty sourdough batard, crafted overnight to bring out its full potential. This recipe yields a perfectly imperfect loaf with a tender crumb and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (at room temperature)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, bread flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add the water and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven or a regular oven with a baking stone inside.
5. Gently shape the dough into a batard, then place it onto a lightly floured surface or a piece of parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 205°F (96°C).
7. Let the loaf cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Overnight Whole Wheat Sourdough Bread

This recipe yields a deliciously dense and flavorful loaf of whole wheat sourdough bread, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. With minimal effort and time, you’ll be rewarded with a crusty exterior and a soft, slightly tangy interior.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (at room temperature)
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and active sourdough starter.
2. Add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and refrigerate overnight (8-10 hours).
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Honey Overnight Sourdough with Seeds

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with the tanginess of sourdough, topped with nutritious seeds for added crunch. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup mixed seeds (e.g., sunflower, pumpkin, and chia)
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add honey and mix until fully incorporated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for 8-12 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Gently fold in mixed seeds.
5. Shape dough into a round or oblong loaf. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Overnight Sourdough Baguettes

Start your day with the aroma of freshly baked baguettes, made possible by the magic of sourdough and a little bit of patience. This recipe yields tender, crusty loaves that are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and 1 cup of warm water (around 90°F to 100°F). Mix until fully dissolved.
2. Add the remaining 3 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours).
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape the dough into baguettes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Olive Oil Overnight Sourdough

Start your day with the rich flavor of sourdough and the comfort of olive oil in this easy overnight bread recipe. With minimal effort and no yeast required, you’ll be enjoying a delicious loaf in just 24 hours.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and water. Mix until smooth.
2. Add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until just combined after each addition.
3. Fold in olive oil and salt to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and refrigerate for 24 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Remove dough from refrigerator and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 24 hours (overnight) + 35-40 minutes baking

Overnight Sourdough Focaccia

This recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough starter with the simplicity of a classic Italian flatbread. With just a few hours of prep time, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously flavorful and airy focaccia perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and ripe)
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, bread flour, yeast, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and refrigerate overnight (8-10 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Gently shape the chilled dough into a round or oblong shape. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs, if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spelt Overnight Sourdough Bread

This recipe yields a deliciously dense and flavorful spelt sourdough bread, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. By using a natural starter instead of commercial yeast, you’ll get a more complex flavor profile and a better texture.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup spelt flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast (for feeding the starter)
– 1/2 cup sourdough starter (fed with equal parts flour and water, allowed to ferment for at least 8 hours)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine spelt flour and warm water to form a shaggy dough.
2. Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature (around 70°F) for 24 hours.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
5. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 35-40 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Overnight Sourdough Pizza Dough

Transform your pizza game with this easy-to-make overnight sourdough dough that yields a crispy crust and flavorful base for your favorite toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe lets you prep ahead of time and bake fresh pizzas whenever the mood strikes.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and ripe)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add olive oil and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
5. Punch down the dough, shape into desired pizza size, and top as desired.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cheddar Jalapeño Overnight Sourdough

Elevate your bread game with this Cheddar Jalapeño Overnight Sourdough recipe, featuring the perfect balance of tangy sourdough, spicy jalapeños, and rich cheddar cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2-3 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Mix sourdough starter, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Add melted butter, cheddar cheese, and jalapeños; mix until just combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel; refrigerate for 8-12 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust, if desired.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Seeded Overnight Sourdough Loaf

This recipe combines the natural goodness of sourdough with the added crunch and flavor of seeds, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or snack. With minimal effort and time, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously dense and flavorful loaf.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and water. Mix until smooth.
2. Add bread flour, salt, and seeds. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the dough and let it rest at room temperature for 8-10 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Overnight Sourdough Ciabatta

This recipe yields a deliciously crusty and airy ciabatta bread using your sourdough starter, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (at room temperature)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add sugar and water, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and refrigerate for 8-12 hours (or overnight).
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and shape into a long, thin rectangle.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips:

– Use your favorite sourdough starter and adjust as needed to account for its natural yeastiness.
– For a crisper crust, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Herb-Infused Overnight Sourdough

Elevate your bread game with this easy and aromatic recipe, perfect for a relaxing weekend morning. By infusing your sourdough with fresh herbs, you’ll create a deliciously complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Add rosemary and thyme leaves; mix until evenly distributed.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water while mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and refrigerate for 8-12 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and shape into your desired form (e.g., boule, baguette).
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each loaf.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Overnight Sourdough Dinner Rolls

These tender and flavorful rolls are made possible by the magic of sourdough starter, allowing for a rich flavor development overnight. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter and 2 cups of flour. Mix until smooth.
2. Add remaining 1 cup of flour, salt, and water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours).
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Overnight Sourdough

Transform your morning routine with this flavorful and aromatic bread recipe that combines the tanginess of sourdough with the richness of garlic parmesan. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, and salt. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
2. Add Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Mix until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature (around 70°F to 75°F) for 8-10 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Overnight Sourdough Buns for Burgers

Rise above the ordinary burger experience with these soft, tangy, and utterly delicious overnight sourdough buns. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ, these buns are packed with flavor and texture.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and ripe)
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt. Mix until just combined.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 8-12 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on desired bun size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until buns are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Multigrain Overnight Sourdough Bread

Elevate your bread game with this hearty and flavorful multigrain sourdough recipe, perfect for a weekend brunch or as a base for sandwiches. With the help of an overnight fermentation process, you’ll be rewarded with a dense, chewy crumb and a crispy crust.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 2 cups mixed grains (whole wheat, rye, oats, barley, and Kamut)
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, mixed grains, warm water, sea salt, and brown sugar. Mix until just combined.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature (around 70°F) for 12 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf, placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Cinnamon Raisin Overnight Sourdough

This recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough with the warmth of cinnamon and sweetness of raisins, creating a delicious breakfast or snack option.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Water (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Mix starter, flour, oats, sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl until just combined.
2. Add raisins and mix until they’re evenly distributed.
3. Cover the mixture and let it rest at room temperature for 12-14 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently fold in salt.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

Tips:

– Adjust the amount of raisins to your liking.
– Try substituting chopped nuts for some of the oats for added texture.
– Store cooled bread at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Summary

Discover the world of overnight sourdough recipes with this collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes perfect for beginners. From classic breads to crusty boules and flavorful focaccias, these recipes showcase the versatility of sourdough starter. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple sandwich loaf or a decadent pizza dough, there’s something for everyone. With easy-to-follow instructions and tips for maintaining your starter, this article is sure to inspire you to get baking. So why wait? Dive into the world of overnight sourdough and start creating your own delicious treats today!

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