Sourdough Pumpernickel Bread

Craving a hearty, flavorful loaf of bread that brings warmth and comfort to your home? Look no further than our delicious Sourdough Pumpernickel Bread recipe. This rich and tangy bread is perfect for cozy breakfasts or hearty sandwiches. With its deep, earthy flavors, this bread is a delightful addition to any meal or gathering.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter
– 1 1/2 cups rye flour
– 2 1/2 cups bread flour
– 1/4 cup cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the active sourdough starter, rye flour, bread flour, cocoa powder, and caraway seeds. Mix well to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the lukewarm water, molasses, honey, and salt until the sweeteners are fully dissolved.
3. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 2-3 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. After the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a round loaf. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with a towel, and let it rise for an additional 1-2 hours.
7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, slash the top of the loaf with a sharp knife to create a decorative pattern.
8. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked Sourdough Pumpernickel Bread filling your home as you savor each bite of this flavorful and wholesome loaf. Whether enjoyed fresh with a slather of butter or toasted to perfection, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household. Share it with loved ones or indulge in a solo moment of homemade goodness. Get ready to elevate your bread game with this simple and satisfying recipe!