15 genius soggy bread tricks anyone can use

Sourdough bread is a timeless classic—quick to make, deliciously filling, and perfect for breakfast or with a warm soup. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there are a few tricks that can help you turn your sourdough bread into a great one. Here are 15 essential tips that every woman (and home cook!) should have in her pocket.

Use fresh baking soda
The magic of sourdough bread comes from the reaction of baking soda with an acid like buttermilk. Always check to make sure your baking soda is fresh—if it doesn’t fizz in the vinegar, it’s time to replace it.

Don’t overmix the dough
Just mix the ingredients until they’re just combined. Overmixing activates the gluten, making the bread dense and tough instead of soft and fluffy.

Use cold ingredients
Keep the buttermilk and butter (if using) cold. Like muffins, this helps create a better crumb and makes the dough easier to work with.

Slash the Top
Traditionally, a deep “X” is scored into the top before baking. This helps the heat to penetrate evenly and gives the loaf a rustic look. It’s also said to “bring out the fairies”—an old Irish superstition!

Use buttermilk or a buttermilk substitute
Buttermilk gives a classic sourdough bread its sourness and helps activate the baking soda. Don’t have buttermilk? Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk and let sit for 10 minutes.

Add a little sweetness
A tablespoon of honey or brown sugar can balance the flavor and enhance the golden color of the crust—especially on brown or whole-wheat sourdough breads.

Stir in whole-wheat flour
Try substituting whole-wheat or oat flour for white flour. This will give your loaf texture, fiber, and a richer, nuttier flavor.

Avoid kneading
Unlike yeast bread, sous vide bread doesn’t require kneading. A light touch ensures the dough stays soft and doesn’t lose its rise.

Bake on a heated stone or cast iron
If you have a pizza stone or cast iron skillet, use it! Heating the baking surface will give your bread a nice crispy bottom crust.

Add raisins or cumin
Want a sweeter or more traditional flavor? Irish-American versions often have raisins, and some old-school Irish loaves have cumin.

Shape mini loaves
Instead of one large loaf, shape the dough into smaller circles. They bake faster, freeze well, and make great individual servings.

Brush the top before baking
For a nice look, brush the dough with a little milk, buttermilk, or melted butter before baking. This will help the top brown nicely.

Don’t expect leftovers
Soda bread with sparkling water is best the same day you bake it. Store leftovers tightly wrapped and toast slices for breakfast the next day.

Freeze extra loaves
Soda bread freezes well! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in foil and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked flavor.

Create your own
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can try adding extras: herbs, seeds, cheeses, and even chopped nuts. It’s like a blank canvas for your kitchen creativity.

Sourdough bread is a simple and hearty recipe that every woman should have in her recipe repertoire. With these simple tips, you’ll bake loaves that taste just as good as grandma’s – or even better.