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Imagine waking up to the comforting smell of maple and warm toasted pecans wafting through your kitchen. This loaf pairs the tang of sourdough with the mellow sweetness of pure maple syrup for a morning treat that’s equal parts hearty and indulgent. We’re calling it “Golden Maple-Pecan Sunrise Sourdough,” and it’s guaranteed to become your new favorite brunch centerpiece.
Ingredients
- 3½ cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 cup active sourdough starter, bubbly and recently fed
- 1¼ cups lukewarm water
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional glaze)
Instructions
Start by combining the sourdough starter, lukewarm water, and maple syrup in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the ingredients come together in a slightly frothy mixture. Next, add the bread flour and sea salt, mixing gently until a shaggy dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes so the flour can hydrate, then knead by hand or with a dough hook on low speed for approximately 5 minutes. The dough should feel smooth and elastic.
Fold in the toasted pecans, distributing them evenly throughout. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to ferment at room temperature for about 4–5 hours, or until it doubles in size. Punch down gently and shape into a round loaf. Place it in a proofing basket or a bowl lined with a floured towel, cover, and let it rest once more for 1–2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Carefully tip the loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a Dutch oven. Score the top, then bake for 20 minutes with the lid on or under steam (if using a Dutch oven) and an additional 20–25 minutes uncovered, or until the crust is deep golden brown. Brush the loaf with melted butter, if desired, for an extra glossy finish. Let it cool before slicing.
One bite of this maple-kissed pecan sourdough reveals a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy flavors—and it’s perfect for everyone from weekend brunch enthusiasts to everyday bread lovers. If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider swapping in whole wheat flour for part of the white flour, or replace pecans with walnuts for a slightly different nutty twist. This loaf’s balanced profile also makes it a great base for both sweet and savory spreads, so experiment fearlessly and enjoy every crumb!
