Cinnamon swirl pumpkin sourdough bread cooling on a rustic wooden table

Why Make This Recipe

Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Sourdough Bread is the perfect treat for cozy fall mornings. If you enjoy the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin filling your home, this bread will surely please you. It’s soft, fluffy, and offers a delightful swirl of cinnamon goodness. The combination of flavors captures the essence of fall. Plus, it’s a great way to use your sourdough starter!

Making this bread at home lets you enjoy fresh bread just out of the oven. There is something special about homemade bread that you cannot find in store-bought varieties. It also fills your kitchen with inviting scents and creates a sense of accomplishment. Trust me; your family and friends will love it!

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Sourdough Bread

Making this bread is a fun process, and with some simple steps, you’ll have delicious bread to share. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients

1 cup Levain (bubbly sourdough starter)
1 cup Filtered Water (essential for hydration)
3 cups Bread Flour (can use all-purpose as a substitute)
1 cup Pumpkin Puree (use pure, unsweetened for best flavor)
1/4 cup Brown Sugar (infuses sweetness and caramelizes)
1 teaspoon Salt (enhances flavors and regulates yeast)
1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (a mix of traditional fall spices)
2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (adds warmth to the swirl)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Starter and Water: In a large bowl, combine the levain and the filtered water. Stir well until mixed.
Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the bread flour, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon. Mix everything together until you form a shaggy dough.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 4 to 6 hours or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Dough: Once raised, punch down the dough gently to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangular shape.
Create the Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle more ground cinnamon and brown sugar on top of the dough. Roll up the dough tightly from one end to the other, forming a log.
Second Rise: Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with a towel and let it rise for another 1 to 2 hours until it puffs up.
Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Sourdough Bread

This bread is wonderful on its own, but you can also enhance the experience. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for a sweet treat. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also toast slices for a tasty breakfast or snack.

How to Store Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Sourdough Bread

Store your bread at room temperature for up to three days. Keep it wrapped in cloth or in a bread bag to maintain freshness. If you want it to last longer, slice the bread and freeze it. You can toast slices directly from the freezer for a quick treat!

Tips to Make Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Sourdough Bread

Check Your Starter: Make sure your levain is active and bubbly before you start. This will lead to better rising.
Use Quality Ingredients: Using pure, unsweetened pumpkin puree makes a big difference in flavor.
Don’t Rush the Rises: Allowing the dough to rise properly gives it strength and flavor. Be patient!
Adjust Spice Levels: If you love cinnamon, feel free to add more to the filling for an extra kick.

Variation

For a twist on this recipe, try adding nuts or raisins to the cinnamon swirl. You can also swap pumpkin pie spice for a touch of nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well too. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still taste great.

2. How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size. You can also poke it gently; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

3. Can I make this bread without a sourdough starter?
You can use instant yeast instead of a sourdough starter, but the flavor will change a bit. Follow the instructions on the yeast package for best results.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Swirl Pumpkin Sourdough Bread is a delightful way to celebrate the fall season. With its soft texture and warm spicy flavors, this bread is sure to brighten your morning. By following this straightforward recipe, you can enjoy fresh homemade bread while filling your home with wonderful scents. Happy baking!