chocolate chip sourdough bread

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 8-12 hours (overnight)
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 13 hours
Servings: 1 loaf

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240g) active sourdough starter
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water
• 4 cups (500g) bread flour
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (100g) dark chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (100g) milk chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Activate Sourdough Starter:
   • Ensure your sourdough starter is active by feeding it 4-6 hours before you plan to use it.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter and warm water. Mix well.
   • Add the bread flour and salt. Mix until a rough dough forms. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Knead and Incorporate Chocolate Chips:
   • After the initial rest, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
   • Gently fold in the dark and milk chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
4. Bulk Fermentation:
   • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
   • Let the dough rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently shape it into a loaf.
   • Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it and let it rise for another 2-4 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) about 30 minutes before you plan to bake the bread. If using a Dutch oven, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
7. Bake the Bread:
   • If using a Dutch oven, carefully transfer the risen dough into the preheated pot. If baking on a sheet, place the dough directly into the oven.
   • Bake for 20 minutes with the lid on (if using a Dutch oven), then remove the lid and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate chip sourdough bread!