Pumpkin-Shaped Sourdough

As autumn settles in, bringing crisp air and vibrant leaves, it’s the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen. Pumpkin-shaped sourdough is a fun way to celebrate fall, combining artful baking with delicious seasonal flavors. This bread is not only a visual delight but also a perfect addition to any fall gathering or cozy dinner.

Why Make Pumpkin-Shaped Sourdough?

Pumpkin-shaped sourdough adds a touch of whimsy and warmth to your meal. Perfect for fall events like Halloween or Thanksgiving, its unique shape and extra crusty goodness make it stand out on any table. Impress your family and friends with this festive loaf!

The Fall Connection

Fall is all about warmth and comfort, and this pumpkin-shaped sourdough captures the season’s spirit. With subtle hints of pumpkin spice, this loaf is a seasonal masterpiece. The cooler weather invites you to bake, and this recipe brings both beauty and flavor to your autumn celebrations.

Essential Tools and Steps for Pumpkin-Shaped Sourdough

Utensils and Equipment Needed

Ensure you have these tools for a smooth baking experience:

Large Mixing Bowl – for combining ingredients.
Digital Kitchen Scale – essential for accurate measurements.
Bench Scraper – for shaping and cutting dough.
Dutch Oven – ensures even baking and a crispy crust.
Lame or Sharp Knife – to score the dough.
Baking Twine – to create the pumpkin shape.

Ingredients

Before starting, gather the following:

500g Bread Flour
200g Pumpkin Puree
200g Water
100g Sourdough Starter
10g Salt
(Optional) 100g Chocolate Chips
(Optional) 1 tsp Pumpkin Spice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Feed Your Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active, 6-8 hours before mixing.
Mix the Dough: Combine flour and salt. In a separate bowl, mix water, pumpkin puree, and starter. Gradually mix wet ingredients into dry.
Stretch and Proof: Stretch and fold the dough over 2 hours, allowing it to rest between sessions.
Shape the Dough: Form it into a round ball and let it proof again.
Create the Pumpkin Shape: Use baking twine to divide the dough into segments, shaping it like a pumpkin.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 500°F and bake for 30-35 minutes with a Dutch oven, then 10-15 minutes uncovered.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the loaf cool before slicing.

Pro Tips for Success

Stable Starter: Ensure your starter doubles in size within 4-6 hours of feeding.
Adjust Hydration: Your dough should be tacky but manageable.
Shaping Precision: Take your time to create a well-defined pumpkin shape.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your pumpkin-shaped sourdough warm with butter, seasonal spreads like spiced apple butter, or as a charming addition to fall sandwiches or soups.

Conclusion

Baking this pumpkin-shaped sourdough is a fun way to celebrate fall and elevate your baking skills. Enjoy the process, and watch this festive loaf become the highlight of your autumn meals!

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Kelly | Sourdough Breaducation

Lover of homesteading, plants and baking that can help you understand how to do this yourself!