chocolate cherry sourdough 🍒
I helped plan a “cherry on top” baby shower for a friend and couldn’t resist the opportunity to try out a new loaf: chocolate cherry! I didn’t go off a recipe for this one but a few things I did were:
• add cacao powder during the first stretch & fold
• dehydrate cherries for 45 minutes in the oven at the lowest setting after pitting / slicing them
• I like to add in my inclusions during stretch and folds. Chocolate chips & cherries were added during the second set!
• trust the process! Even a couple of months ago, I would’ve been panicked because it got a little messy but it turned out beautiful! It always works out (& most of the time tastes good, too!)
Let me know if you have any fun inclusions you want me to try out!! #sourdoughbaker #athomebaker #sourdoughideas #givingsourdough
Chocolate cherry sourdough bread is a delightful twist on traditional sourdough that combines the rich, deep flavor of cacao with the natural tartness of cherries. Incorporating these ingredients requires some special preparation to achieve the best texture and taste. Dehydrating cherries before adding them to the dough helps to reduce excess moisture, preventing soggy bread and intensifying the cherry flavor. The technique of adding cacao powder during the first stretch and fold stage ensures an even distribution of chocolate flavor throughout the dough. Meanwhile, mixing in chocolate chips and cherries during the second set of folds helps maintain their structure and prevents them from breaking apart or burning during baking. Trusting the bread-making process is essential, as sourdough fermentation can sometimes be unpredictable, especially when experimenting with new inclusions. The slight messiness during shaping and folding phases is normal and often results in a beautiful, delicious loaf. This chocolate cherry sourdough loaf is an excellent option for special occasions like baby showers, providing a unique and festive touch. Additionally, it's versatile enough for everyday baking for those passionate about creating artisanal bread at home. For a further burst of flavor, consider exploring other natural add-ins such as nuts, dried fruits, or spices that complement cherries and chocolate. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced sourdough baker, embracing experimentation with ingredients and techniques can yield impressive results. Sharing your creations on sourdough baking communities, like those tagged #sourdoughbaker or #athomebaker, can offer inspiration and support for ongoing baking adventures.