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Black Forest Sourdough Bread

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Black Forest Sourdough Bread is an artisanal loaf that combines the tangy complexity of sourdough with the richness of dark chocolate and the tart sweetness of dried cherries. Inspired by the classic Black Forest dessert, this bread is ideal for breakfast, snacking, or pairing with cheese.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
  • 3 1/2 cups bread flour
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (optional)
  • 1 1/4 cups water
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 cup dried tart cherries
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks or chips
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons cocoa powder for a chocolate-enhanced dough

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix sourdough starter, water, bread flour, and whole wheat flour until a shaggy dough forms. Let rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
  2. Sprinkle salt over the dough and incorporate using wet hands.
  3. Perform a series of stretch and folds every 30 minutes over 2 hours.
  4. After the first or second fold, gently incorporate the dried cherries and chocolate chunks into the dough.
  5. Cover and let the dough bulk ferment at room temperature until doubled in size (4–6 hours depending on ambient temperature).
  6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, shape it into a boule or batard, and place it into a floured proofing basket.
  7. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours) for cold proofing.
  8. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with a Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes.
  9. Transfer the dough onto parchment paper, score the top, and place into the hot Dutch oven.
  10. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 20–25 minutes, until the crust is deep golden brown.
  11. Cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

Add 1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts or hazelnuts for extra texture.Mix 2 tablespoons cocoa powder into the dough for a more chocolate-forward flavor.Substitute dried cherries with cranberries if needed.Soak cherries in kirsch for a boozy boost before adding to dough.Brush the cooled crust with sugar glaze for a dessert-like finish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/black-forest-sourdough-bread/