Introduction

Hey there! Today, I want to share with you a recipe that combines two of my absolute favorite things: chocolate and cherries. Brace yourself for the heavenly delight that is Chocolate Cherry Sourdough Bread. This is not your ordinary bread – it’s a divine treat that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This

I make this bread when I want to indulge in something decadent and satisfying. The rich, deep flavor of the chocolate perfectly complements the sweet tartness of the cherries. It’s a match made in culinary heaven! My family goes crazy for this bread because it’s like dessert in every bite. Plus, the sourdough adds a unique tang that takes it to a whole new level.

Ingredients

For this Chocolate Cherry Sourdough Bread recipe, you will need:

• 250g bread flour
• 50g cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 200g active sourdough starter
• 150g pitted cherries, chopped
• 30g dark chocolate chips
• 250ml water

Optional: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a handful of walnuts or almonds for some extra crunch.

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix well.

2. Add the sourdough starter and water to the dry ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

3. Fold in the chopped cherries and dark chocolate chips. Don’t worry if the dough seems a bit lumpy – it’s supposed to be that way!

4. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for about 4 hours. During this time, the sourdough will work its magic and give the bread its unique flavor.

5. After the resting period, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.

6. Cover the pan with the kitchen towel again and let the dough rise for another 2 hours. It should double in size.

7. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

8. Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread has a golden crust.

9. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

This recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or cherries. I’ve tried using white chocolate and dried cherries, and it turned out equally delicious. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

One handy tip is to use parchment paper to line your bread pan. It makes removing the bread a breeze and saves you from any potential sticking mishaps.

Variations

I’ve also tried making this bread with gluten-free flour for my gluten-intolerant friends, and it worked surprisingly well. Just make sure to adjust the water ratio accordingly.

For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the dough. It’s like a mocha dream come true!

Equipment

If you don’t have a bread pan, don’t fret! You can shape the dough into a round loaf and bake it on a baking sheet. It might not look as traditional, but it will still taste amazing.

Storage

Although this Chocolate Cherry Sourdough Bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it never lasts more than a day in my house! The aroma is simply too tempting to resist.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this bread slightly toasted and spread with a generous layer of creamy butter. It’s also delightful topped with a dollop of cherry jam for an extra burst of fruity goodness.

Pro Tips

When adding the cherries and chocolate chips to the dough, save a handful to sprinkle on top before baking. It adds a lovely visual touch and lets everyone know what deliciousness awaits them inside.

If your sourdough starter needs a little boost of activity, feed it with a tablespoon of flour and water a few hours before you start making the bread. This will ensure a robust rise and enhance the overall flavor.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

A: Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dough.

Q: How long will the sourdough bread stay fresh?

A: Well, it depends on how fast you devour it! In my experience, it stays fresh for up to three days if stored properly. But honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!

So there you have it – a delightful recipe for Chocolate Cherry Sourdough Bread. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every mouthwatering bite. Happy baking!