As the leaves turn and the air takes on that crisp edge, I find myself drawn back to the warmth of my kitchen, where the scent of spices and the promise of comfort await. This Sourdough Pumpkin Bread recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just for its delightful flavor, but for the memories it evokes. Growing up, autumn meant gathering around the table with family, sharing stories and laughter over warm slices of homemade bread. This recipe is my way of bringing those cherished moments into your home, blending the tang of sourdough with the sweet, earthy notes of pumpkin—a marriage of flavors that feels like a hug on a chilly day.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Recipe
- It’s so easy, it feels like a little kitchen victory!
- The sourdough starter adds a unique tang, elevating the classic pumpkin bread.
- This recipe uses a sourdough discard, so nothing goes to waste!
- The aroma alone is worth the effort—your home will smell like a cozy, autumn haven.
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a comforting snack with a cup of tea.
Simple Ingredients for a Delicious Treat
Each ingredient in this Pumpkin Sourdough Bread plays a vital role, bringing its own magic to the mix. The melted butter gives it a rich, moist texture, while the dark brown sugar deepens the sweetness. I love using pumpkin puree for its natural sweetness and velvety smoothness, which pairs beautifully with the tangy sourdough starter. The pumpkin spice blend—a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—adds warmth and depth, making each bite a celebration of fall.
You’ll find the full ingredient list with exact measurements in the recipe card below!
Let’s Make Some Magic: Step-by-Step
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and let’s get started on this culinary journey. Lightly grease a 9×5 loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. In your stand mixer or a large bowl, combine the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and regular sugar. Mix for five minutes until light and fluffy. Next, combine the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin spice, and salt—in a separate bowl.
Add the eggs, vanilla, pumpkin puree, and sourdough starter to the sugar and butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. Slowly fold in the dry ingredients, a third at a time, to avoid over-mixing. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes. Start checking at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready. Allow it to cool in the pan for an hour to set.
A Few of My Favorite Tips
Here’s a little secret from my kitchen to yours: if you want an extra punch of flavor, try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter. They add a delightful crunch and richness. Also, don’t rush the cooling process. Letting the bread cool in the pan allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up beautifully.
How I Like to Serve This
Personally, I enjoy a slice of this Sweet Pumpkin Sourdough Bread slightly toasted, with a thin layer of salted butter or cream cheese. It’s also divine with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Pair it with a steaming mug of coffee or tea for a perfect fall treat.
Storing & Reheating (If There’s Any Left!)
To store, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the bread in slices and reheat them in the toaster or oven. This way, you can enjoy a slice of autumn any time!
For more autumnal delights, check out Fall in Love with This Moist Pumpkin Bread Recipe or discover why This Pumpkin Bread Will Become Your New Fall Favorite. And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on Why You’ll Love Making Funnel Cake Donuts at Home.
Sourdough Pumpkin Bread
Ingredients
Baking Essentials
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sourdough starter discard
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
- Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and sugar until fluffy.
- Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Add eggs, vanilla, pumpkin puree, and sourdough starter to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour into the pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.









