Christmas Sourdough: 7 Cozy Flavors for Holiday Bliss

Name: Christmas Sourdough: 7 Cozy Flavors for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500g bread flour; 350ml water; 100g sourdough starter; 10g salt; 50g dried cranberries; 50g chopped walnuts; 1 tsp cinnamon

November 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something absolutely magical about making bread during the holidays, don’t you think? The warm, yeasty aroma wafting through the house, the anticipation of that golden, crusty loaf fresh out of the oven—it’s pure bliss! This *Christmas sourdough* is my go-to holiday recipe that fills my kitchen with festive cheer. It’s not just any sourdough; it’s packed with dried cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon that dances on your taste buds. Trust me, it’s like a warm hug in bread form!

I’ll never forget the first time I made this bread. It was a chilly December afternoon, and I had a house full of family. We were all bustling around, prepping for our holiday feast. I decided to whip up this sourdough, and as it rose, I could hear the laughter and chatter in the background. When it finally came out of the oven, the crust crackled as I sliced through it, revealing a soft, fluffy interior dotted with cranberries and nuts. Everyone gathered around, and I can still see their smiles as they took that first bite. It turned into a tradition that year, and now, I can’t imagine a Christmas without it!

So, if you’re ready to create some holiday magic in your own kitchen, let’s dive into this delightful *Christmas sourdough* recipe together!

Ingredients List

500g bread flour: This is the foundation of our sourdough, giving it that delightful chew and structure. Make sure to use high-quality bread flour for the best results!
350ml water: Warm water helps activate the sourdough starter and brings the dough together. It should feel comfortable to the touch, not too hot!
100g sourdough starter: This is the magical ingredient that gives our bread that signature tangy flavor and helps it rise. Make sure your starter is bubbly and active!
10g salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the bread and strengthens the dough. It’s a crucial ingredient for balancing all those lovely tastes!
50g dried cranberries: These little bursts of sweetness add a festive touch and a pop of color. Feel free to chop them a bit for easier mixing!
50g chopped walnuts: Crunchy and delicious, walnuts bring a wonderful texture and nutty flavor that complements the cranberries perfectly.
1 tsp cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon elevates this bread to festive heights, adding warmth and a cozy aroma that will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

How to Prepare Christmas Sourdough

Step 1: Mixing the Ingredients

To kick things off, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the 500g bread flour, 350ml water, and 100g sourdough starter. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix everything together until it forms a shaggy dough. You want it to be a little sticky but not overly wet—think of a soft, pliable texture. If it feels too dry, add a splash more water until it comes together nicely!

Step 2: Adding Flavor

Now it’s time to amp up that flavor! Sprinkle in the 10g salt, 50g dried cranberries, 50g chopped walnuts, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the cranberries and walnuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is where the magic happens, so don’t rush it—make sure each bite will have those delightful bursts of flavor!

Step 3: Kneading the Dough

Let’s give that dough some love! Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. You want to work it until it feels smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks to your hands, don’t be afraid to sprinkle a bit more flour, but be careful not to add too much! The goal is to create a dough that’s soft but holds its shape well—think of a friendly, elastic ball!

Step 4: First Rise

Once your dough is beautifully kneaded, pop it back into the bowl and cover it with a damp kitchen towel. Let it rise for about 4 hours in a warm, draft-free spot. You want it to double in size, so choose a cozy corner of your kitchen. If your kitchen is on the cooler side, it might take a bit longer, so just keep an eye on it!

Step 5: Shaping the Dough

When your dough has risen to perfection, it’s time to shape it! Gently turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. Once you’ve shaped it, place it seam-side up into a proofing basket (or a bowl lined with a floured cloth) to help it hold its shape while it proofs.

Step 6: Proofing

Let your shaped dough proof for about 2 hours. During this time, you want to look for it to puff up a bit—that’s a sign it’s ready to bake! If you poke it gently and it springs back slowly, you’re in good shape. If it doesn’t spring back at all, it might be over-proofed, so keep a close eye on it!

Step 7: Baking the Bread

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) while your dough is finishing its proof. When it’s ready, carefully flip the dough onto a baking sheet or a preheated Dutch oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. For the best crust, you can add a splash of water to a pan at the bottom of the oven to create steam!

Step 8: Cooling

Once your *Christmas sourdough* is baked to perfection, resist the urge to slice it immediately! Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time is crucial—it allows the interior to finish setting and develops that wonderful texture. After it’s cooled, store it in a sealed bag to keep it fresh and soft. Enjoy the festive aroma filling your kitchen and the joy of sharing this delicious bread with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This *Christmas sourdough* isn’t just any loaf; it’s a celebration in itself! The burst of sweet cranberries paired with the earthy crunch of walnuts creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for the holidays. Each slice is not only delicious but also brings that warm, cozy feeling that reminds you of family gatherings around the table. Seriously, when you serve this bread, you’re not just offering food—you’re sharing a piece of joy!

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You don’t need to be a baking whiz to achieve a beautiful loaf! With just a few straightforward steps, you can create something that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. Plus, the simple ingredients make it a breeze to whip up, even amidst the holiday hustle and bustle.

And let’s not forget how this *Christmas sourdough* adds a festive touch to any gathering. Whether you’re having a big family dinner, a cozy brunch with friends, or a quiet night in, this bread elevates the occasion. Just imagine the smiles when everyone takes a bite! It’s the kind of bread that invites conversation, laughter, and memories to be made. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some holiday magic together!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your *Christmas sourdough* turns out absolutely fantastic! Here are my tried-and-true tips that will help you nail this recipe every time, ensuring it’s as delicious as possible.

Use a kitchen scale: Trust me, this will change your baking game! Weighing your ingredients gives you accuracy, which is key for getting that perfect dough consistency. Measuring by volume can lead to discrepancies, so grab that scale for the best results!
Keep your sourdough starter active: Make sure your starter is bubbly and well-fed before you start. This ensures good fermentation and helps your bread rise beautifully. If it’s been sitting in the fridge, feed it a day or two before baking!
Adjust ingredients to taste: Feel free to tweak the cranberries, walnuts, or cinnamon based on what you love! Not a fan of cranberries? Try dried figs or apricots instead. Love a bit more spice? Add an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or even some nutmeg for a cozy flavor twist!
Monitor the dough: Every kitchen is different, so keep an eye on your dough during the rising stages. If it’s taking a bit longer to rise, don’t panic! Just be patient and let it grow until it doubles in size.
Experiment with steam: For that perfect crust, create steam in your oven. You can place a pan of water at the bottom of the oven while it preheats or spritz the bread with water just before putting it in. It’ll give you that gorgeous crust that’s so satisfying to bite into!
Cool completely before slicing: I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting your bread cool for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This allows the crumb to set properly, ensuring each slice is beautifully soft and not gummy.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a *Christmas sourdough* that will impress everyone around your holiday table. So, get excited and enjoy the process—baking should be as joyful as the bread itself!

Variations on Christmas Sourdough

One of the best things about this *Christmas sourdough* recipe is how adaptable it is! You can easily make it your own by experimenting with different add-ins and flavors. Here are some creative variations to consider:

Nutty Delight: Swap out the chopped walnuts for other nuts like pecans, hazelnuts, or almonds. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and texture, so have fun with it!
Festive Fruits: Instead of or in addition to dried cranberries, try using dried cherries, raisins, or even chopped dried apricots. This adds a lovely sweetness and a pop of color to your bread!
Spice it Up: Want to elevate the festive vibe even more? Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. These spices will give your bread a warm, holiday aroma that’s simply irresistible!
Herb Infusion: For a unique twist, try adding some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Just a tablespoon or two will bring a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberries.
Chocolate Chip Surprise: For the chocoholics out there, why not fold in some dark chocolate chips? They melt into gooey goodness and complement the bread perfectly, making it a decadent treat!
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Add some grated Parmesan or cheddar for a savory spin. This will create a beautiful balance of flavors, making your *Christmas sourdough* a delightful addition to any festive cheese platter!

Feel free to mix and match these variations to find your perfect combination. The key is to have fun and let your creativity shine through! Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

So, let’s talk about what’s packed into each slice of this delightful *Christmas sourdough*! Here’s a general idea of the nutritional values you can expect, though keep in mind these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:

Calories: 180
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

This *Christmas sourdough* is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a wholesome addition to your holiday spread! The combination of ingredients brings a good balance of carbs, fiber, and protein, making it a satisfying slice. Enjoy it fresh, toasted, or as part of a festive sandwich—however you choose to indulge, you can feel good about sharing it with your loved ones!

FAQ Section

How do I maintain my sourdough starter?
Keeping your sourdough starter happy is easier than you think! Feed it equal parts flour and water (by weight) every time you take some out for baking. If you’re not baking frequently, store it in the fridge and feed it once a week. When you’re ready to bake, bring it back to room temperature and feed it a couple of times to get it bubbly and active again!

What if my sourdough starter isn’t bubbly?
If your starter isn’t bubbling like it should, it might need a little more TLC. Try feeding it more frequently or adjusting the temperature where it’s stored. A warmer spot can help it ferment better. And don’t forget, it might take a few feedings to revive it fully if it’s been dormant!

How should I store leftover *Christmas sourdough*?
To keep your *Christmas sourdough* fresh, let it cool completely, then store it in a sealed bag or an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay good for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and freeze it! Just make sure to wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

Can I revive stale *Christmas sourdough*?
Absolutely! If your bread has gone a bit stale, don’t toss it just yet. You can revive it by spritzing it lightly with water and warming it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore some of that delicious softness and flavor!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
While this recipe is designed for traditional bread flour, you can experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might differ a bit, so it may require some adjustments to the liquid or rising time.

Can I double this recipe?
Sure! If you want to make more than one loaf, just double the ingredients. Just be mindful of your mixing bowl size and oven capacity. You may need to bake them in batches to ensure they cook evenly!

What should I serve with *Christmas sourdough*?
This festive bread pairs beautifully with a variety of spreads! Think creamy butter, festive jams, or even a rich cheese spread. It’s also perfect for making sandwiches or served alongside soups and salads during the holiday season.

Got more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help you on your baking journey!