The Best Sourdough Books: Level Up your Baking with These Must-Haves

Do you love sourdough? Do the words “levain,” “baker’s percentage,” and “crumb” make your heart skip a beat? Sourdough baking is an art form that requires patience, practice, and passion, which is well suited to anyone who enjoys conquering difficult tasks.

Making a delicious loaf of sourdough bread requires time, dedication, and the right ingredients. It is a rewarding experience that can be shared and enjoyed by everyone.

Some wonderful books about sourdough bread on the market will guide you through the process and inspire you to make delicious loaves that delight even the most discerning palate. No matter how good or bad you are at baking, there’s a recipe out there that you can make and enjoy.

Some focus on traditional baking methods, while others explore the innovative techniques of modern bakers. Some show you how science makes sourdough, while others show you how it’s made by artistry. But they all share the same goal: to make you and your loved ones happy with the perfect loaf of bread, deliciously crisp outsides, and soft, supple insides.

From the basic techniques of creating a starter to the intricacies of shaping a perfect boule, each recipe has tips, tricks, and secrets to help you achieve the perfect crust, crumb, and flavor. We’ve picked some of the books based on recommendations from chefs and reviewers.

Remember, the best sourdough cookbook resonates with your baking aspirations and aligns with your learning style. We hope you’ll find the one of your choice inspires you to bake more often.

I’m sure we’ve missed some, so if you’ve got any more recommendations, just let me know. Now, let’s take a look.

The Best Sourdough Bread Books: Every Baker’s Wish List

Here are some of the top sourdough cookbooks that have been making waves in the baking community. Each book brings a unique perspective to sourdough baking, focusing on different techniques, flavors, and styles. Let’s dive in and discover what each one has to offer.

1. Flour Water Salt Yeast: The Fundamentals of Artisan Bread and Pizza by Ken Forkish

Forkish’s book, “Flour Water Salt Yeast,” is a comprehensive bread-baking guide covering everything from the basics to the advanced techniques. It includes step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and beautiful photography that illustrates the process every step of the way.

One of the book’s unique features is Forkish’s engineering mindset, which allows him to describe the bread-making process in a detailed and analytical way. However, he does so in a conversational tone that makes the book accessible and easy to read.

Author’s Identity:

Ken Forkish is a renowned baking expert in Portland, known for his critically acclaimed bread and pizza. Forkish’s passion for baking goes beyond pleasure, and he considers baking an art form that ignites the soul.

As an ex-software engineer, Forkish brings a structured and analytical approach to his craft, meticulously describing each step of bread baking as if creating an algorithm. Forkish’s book combines his engineering mindset with his baking expertise, presenting a detailed guide to bread baking.

Book’s Contents:

What makes “Flour Water Salt Yeast” a must-have book? Let’s take a look.

The Science of Bread Baking: The Ingredients, Tools, and Techniques

Ken Forkish lays out the fundamental principles of bread baking in a structured, logical manner. He covers everything from the essential ingredients – flour, water, salt, and yeast – and the tools for creating perfect loaves to mixing, folding, dividing, proofing, and baking techniques.

With clear explanations and detailed illustrations, readers will learn to manipulate ingredient ratios, understand baker’s percentages, and control fermentation for consistently excellent results.

Simple Recipes for Beginner Bakers

Straight bread is the foundation for all bread baking and the starting point for beginners. In this book, Forkish offers simple, straightforward recipes anyone can master, from classic white bread to rich whole wheat loaves.

With step-by-step instructions and tips to troubleshoot common mistakes, even first-time bakers can achieve professional-quality bread.

Pre-Ferments and Levain Starters

Taking bread baking to the next level, Forkish introduces pre-ferments and levain starters that allow intermediate bakers to build complexity and elevate the flavors of their loaves. From a poolish to a biga, these pre-ferments can add nutty, funky, or tangy notes to the final bread.

With comprehensive instructions on making your starters and recipes that show how to use them, readers can expand their baking repertoire and impress their friends and family. This is a crucial skill for sourdough baking, as the levain is the heart of sourdough bread.

Natural Yeast Hybrids and Pure Leavened Bread: The Ultimate Artisanal Challenge

The book includes detailed instructions and recipes for natural yeast hybrid breads. These are breads that use both commercial yeast and a sourdough starter. This is a great starting point for those new to sourdough and wanting to ease into it.

Forkish’s signature Dutch oven baking method for wet doughs achieves a crispy crust and moist crumb that is simply unmatched. From seeded sourdough to olive levain, these recipes are for the true artisanal bread enthusiasts.

The Algorithm of Success: Feedback, Tips, and Tricks for Perfect Loaves Every Time

Forkish’s approach to bread baking is not just about recipes; it’s about a structured and systematic approach that leads to consistent success. He also shares feedback from readers who have achieved near-perfect loaves by following his algorithms and tips for troubleshooting common mistakes.

From hydration ratios to proper shaping techniques, readers will learn to approach bread baking with an engineer’s precision and a dedicated baker’s passion.

The book’s user-friendly layout and stunning photography make it practical and beautiful, making it a true centerpiece for any baker’s cookbook collection.

2. Tartine Bread

One of the best bread books ever. This classic book shows you how to make the perfect loaf with four simple ingredients: flour, water, salt, and wild yeast.

Tartine Bread by Chad Robertson introduces the fundamentals of bread baking, from the essential ingredients to the tools and techniques used. Each step is illustrated with clear photos and detailed instructions, making it easy to understand even for novice bakers.

Author’s Identity:

Chad Robertson, co-founder of San Francisco’s renowned Tartine Bakery, is a culinary luminary and James Beard award-winning chef. With a culinary arts and baking background, he has become a pioneer in artisanal bread.

His book “Tartine Bread” is a testament to his expertise, offering a detailed guide to his signature breadmaking technique and captivating photography. Beyond his bakery, Robertson has expanded the Tartine brand globally and co-founded Coffee Manufactory, showcasing his commitment to quality ingredients and innovation in the culinary world.

Eric Wolfinger is a multi-talented artist based in San Francisco. As a photographer, surfer, and bread-making apprentice at Tartine Bakery, he combines his passions for visual storytelling and culinary craftsmanship.

His collaboration with Chad Robertson, the renowned baker, has resulted in captivating images that capture the artistry of breadmaking.

Book’s Contents:

What is in here? Let’s take a look.

The Art of Sourdough Bread Making

This book walks you through the basics of sourdough bread making. The recipes for mixing the dough, fermenting the bread, and shaping it into a boule can be found here.

Chad Robertson shares his unique techniques for using four simple ingredients to create incredible sourdough bread without relying on commercial yeast or sugar. As well as maintaining and caring for your starter, you’ll also learn how to troubleshoot common problems.

Advanced Techniques and Essential Tips

Looking to sharpen your bread-making skills?

Robertson shares his expert advice on advanced sourdough bread-making techniques. Create complex flavor profiles using flours, temperature controls, and shaping techniques for making focaccia and baguettes.

The secrets and tips of a master baker that will ensure consistency and quality in your baking.

Custom Recipes for Every Taste

One of the best things about Tartine Bread is that it allows you to create custom breads that suit your unique taste preferences. Whether you’re a fan of rustic country loaf, crunchy sourdough, or hearty whole-grain bread, Robertson’s recipes will inspire you to bake something new and delicious.

You’ll also discover how to use leftover bread creatively, from bread pudding to croutons to artisanal pizzas.

The Legacy of Tartine Bakery

Tartine Bread is more than just a recipe book, and it’s also a tribute to the legacy of Tartine Bakery. Learn about the bakery’s history and how Chad Robertson and Elisabeth Prueitt turned a small San Francisco bakery into a global phenomenon.

The secrets behind Tartine Bakery’s success include its commitment to using organic ingredients and supporting local farmers and artisans. There’s also an interview with Chad Robertson about his philosophy on baking and what he hopes the industry will look like in the future.

A Troubleshooting Guide and Glossary

Keep going even if your first attempt at sourdough bread doesn’t turn out perfectly. Here’s a troubleshooting guide to help you identify and fix common bread problems. 

Chad Robertson has seen everything from collapsed loaves to undercooked centers to sourdough that won’t rise. And he’s here to help you overcome any obstacle.

You’ll also find a glossary of key baking terms, ingredients, and resources for sourcing the best flour, water, and wild yeast for your sourdough bread.

3. Artisan Sourdough Made Simple

Emilie Raffa’s “Artisan Sourdough Made Simple” has been hailed as the ultimate beginner’s guide to mastering the art of sourdough. Raffa, a professionally trained chef and home baker, has simplified the sourdough baking process and made it accessible.

Author’s Identity:

Emilie Raffa is a talented chef and baker who has turned her passion into an art form. Trained at the renowned International Culinary Center, Raffa has honed her craft for over a decade, becoming an expert on sourdough bread baking.

Her book, Artisan Sourdough Made Simple, is a testament to her expertise, providing readers with accessible techniques that make bread baking approachable for all. Her blog, The Clever Carrot, showcases her diverse talents in the kitchen, where she shares a wealth of recipes and home-baking advice.

Through her work, Raffa has become a trusted authority on cooking, earning numerous accolades and features in respected publications such as Oprah Magazine, Women’s Health Magazine, and Food & Wine.

Book’s Contents:

What makes this book so special, and why are home bakers raving about it?

Over 100,000 Copies Sold and Still Going Strong

“Artisan Sourdough Made Simple” has been a runaway success, with over 100,000 copies sold. This owes largely to Raffa’s keen understanding of what home bakers need, coupled with her user-friendly approach.

Whether you’re a parent with little free time or an experienced baker looking to try your hand at sourdough, this book has something to offer. Raffa’s user-friendly approach and unique recipes have made sourdough baking accessible.

Master Recipe Guides for Sourdough Starters

One of the trickiest aspects of sourdough baking is mastering the starter, which gives sourdough bread its distinct flavor and texture. Raffa’s book offers a step-by-step guide to creating and caring for sourdough starters, making the process simple and stress-free.

Unique Recipes for Every Taste

Once you’ve mastered the start, it’s time to bake some bread. Raffa’s book offers over 60 unique recipes for sourdough bread, including Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Bread, Cinnamon Raisin Swirl, and No-Knead Tomato Basil Focaccia.

The book caters to all tastes, including those sensitive to gluten.

Health and Digestion Benefits

Sourdough bread has a host of health benefits when compared to other types of bread. Through fermentation, sourdough bread is easier to digest and has a lower glycemic index.

This has made it increasingly popular among health-conscious people with digestive disorders.

Tips and Tricks for Baking Success

While the recipes in the book are simple and easy to follow, readers may need to adjust baking times and temperatures to suit their equipment and preferences.

Raffa’s book contains many helpful tips and tricks for ensuring baking success, including recommendations for cast-iron Dutch ovens and stoneware loaf pans.

4. The Bread Baker’s Apprentice

Here’s another one of the giants in the sourdough bread baking world – “The Bread Baker’s Apprentice,” 15th Anniversary Edition: Mastering the Art of Extraordinary Bread [A Baking Book] by Peter Reinhart.

One of the most well-known and respected bread-baking books out there. Among the many excellent books in the culinary niche, Reinhart’s books, especially The Bread Baker’s Apprentice, are among the best.

Author’s Identity:

Peter Reinhart is not just a renowned authority on bread but a true pioneer of its art. He has indisputably made a mark on the culinary world with his impressive track record of six bread-baking books, including three James Beard Award winners, and his thriving restaurant Pie Town.

Peter Reinhart has been a professional baker since he was 19 years old. As a full-time baking instructor at Johnson and Wales University and the host of PizzaQuest.com, he has shared his passion for bread-baking with countless enthusiasts.

With his latest book, he aims to teach his readers how to fly without controls and explore the infinite possibilities of bread-making. Peter Reinhart is the ultimate guide for anyone looking to take their bread-baking skills to the next level.

Book’s Contents:

The Bread Baker’s Apprentice, affectionately known as BBA, provides readers with an overview of the science behind bread baking. Widely regarded as a masterpiece in baking, this comprehensive guidebook is filled with tips, tricks, and techniques that will help you easily create extraordinary bread.

Master Bread Formulas: The Secrets to Creating 50 Classic Bread Recipes

“The Bread Baker’s Apprentice” focuses on creating artisan bread with great flavor, texture, and nutrition. Peter Reinhart shares insider tips and secrets for creating outstanding breads that will impress anyone trying them.

You’ll find clear, concise instructions on the art and science of bread making through fifty master bread formulas. From the Italian favorite ciabatta to the rustic French pain de campagne, this book provides a comprehensive guide to creating a diverse bread selection that appeals to all palates.

Peter’s signature recipes, which include his unique version of popular breads, are also featured in this section. Moreover, three innovative bread recipes are added to provide practical application and enhance skill development.

The Twelve Stages of Bread

One of the most valuable aspects of “The Bread Baker’s Apprentice” is its comprehensive explanation of the twelve stages of bread. From mixing and fermentation to shaping and baking, Reinhart covers every aspect of the bread-making process with detailed instructions and helpful photographs.

By mastering these stages, bakers can create delicious and visually stunning bread.

Baker’s Percentages

You must understand the baker’s percentages if you’re serious about baking bread. This measurement system is the best way to ensure that your bread has the perfect balance of ingredients for optimal flavor and texture.

In “The Bread Baker’s Apprentice,” Reinhart explains baker’s percentages in detail and shows how they can be applied to any bread recipe successfully.

Teaching Tool with Practical Tips and Recipes

While “The Bread Baker’s Apprentice” includes some recipes, it’s more of a teaching tool that can be applied to other recipes successfully. Reinhart provides useful information and insights that empower bakers to improve their skills and create unique bread creations.

The book includes clear paragraphs organized in ordered lists and “grace notes” that provide additional information. Helpful “how-to” photographs accompany many recipes.

Improved 15th Anniversary Edition with Updated Content

The 15th-anniversary edition of “The Bread Baker’s Apprentice” includes updated content and new photographs, making it an even better resource for bakers. Reinhart’s instructions on creating improvised proofing bowls and his information on gear and ingredients are just a few of the additions that make this edition even more comprehensive and valuable.

Additionally, “The Bread Baker’s Apprentice” includes numerous color photographs that make it a pleasure to read and use.

5. New World Sourdough

The next book on our list is New World Sourdough: Artisan Techniques for Creative Homemade Fermented Breads by Bryan Ford. 

This is the perfect pick for anyone looking to explore more than just classic sourdough recipes, with over 100 recipes featuring everything from traditional loaves to stuffed breads and sweet treats. Ford’s book is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to make the most of their sourdough baking skills.

Author’s Identity:

Bryan Ford has always looked for ways to challenge himself and push his baking skills to the limit. He is a passionate baker who loves exploring new breads and techniques, from classic French baguettes to creative stuffed breads.

Ford is also the founder of Artisan Bryan, a baking blog showcasing his exploration of regional recipes worldwide. New World Sourdough is his first book, and he hopes it will inspire others to explore their creativity in the kitchen.

Book’s Contents:

Let’s see what this book has to offer.

Simplified Bread-Making Process

Gone are the days when bread-making was a complicated and time-consuming process. Bryan Ford introduces a simplified bread-making process that celebrates creative approaches to flavor while appreciating the quality of every loaf that comes out of the oven.

The book covers basic knowledge and techniques for making sourdough bread to more complex recipes and projects. With its clear instructions and detailed photographs, this book will help bakers of all skill levels create exceptional masterpieces.

Over 100 Unique and Delicious Recipes to Try

If you’re tired of making the same old sourdough bread, New World Sourdough is the cookbook for you. With over 100 recipes for every kind of sourdough bread imaginable, from rustic loaves to flatbreads and rolls, there is something for everyone.

There are also plenty of creative-filled bread and sweet treats like cinnamon buns and popovers. These unique recipes are sure to impress your family and friends.

Advanced Techniques for Serious Bakers

For the more serious bakers, Bryan Ford’s New World Sourdough includes advanced techniques like steaming, baking in a Dutch oven, and creating “bread art.” These techniques will help take your bread-making to the next level and impress your friends and family.

Honoring Central American Roots with Sourdough-Based Recipes

Bryan Ford’s Central American roots are evident in his sourdough-based recipes for semitas de yema, pan de coco, and flour tortillas made with coconut milk. These recipes pay homage to his heritage while celebrating the versatility of sourdough bread.

New World Sourdough is invaluable for anyone serious about making amazing sourdough bread at home. With its unique recipes, advanced techniques, and homage to Central American culture, this cookbook offers something for everyone.

The book contains recipes that offer a new take on sourdough bread and will inspire you to try something new in the kitchen.

What Should You Seek in a Sourdough Cookbook?

When seeking the perfect sourdough cookbook to elevate your bread-making skills, there are key aspects to consider.

First things first, make sure the cookbook has thorough instructions on the basics, like mixing and shaping the dough, and helpful tips for fixing any problems you might run into while making sourdough.

Look for a cookbook that offers a diverse array of recipes. A wide variety ensures you can explore different flavors and styles, keeping your baking journey exciting.

And prioritize cookbooks with recipes that are delicious, easy to comprehend, and follow. Here are some additional insights to keep in mind when making your selection:

1. Starter and Technique Guidance: Seek a cookbook that offers detailed guidance on creating and maintaining a sourdough starter. A solid foundation in starter management is crucial for successful sourdough baking.
2. Illustrations and Visuals: Cookbooks with clear and visually appealing images can be immensely helpful. Visual references for each step can enhance your understanding of the baking process.
3. Ingredient Accessibility: Ensure that the cookbook’s recipes align with the availability of ingredients in your region. Some cookbooks may include specialized ingredients, so choose one that matches your pantry.
4. Time Commitment: Consider the time commitment required for each recipe. Some sourdough recipes involve lengthy fermentation periods, while others are quicker. Select recipes that align with your schedule.
5. Community and Online Resources: Check if the cookbook offers access to online communities or additional resources. This can be valuable for seeking advice, sharing experiences, and troubleshooting.
6. Author’s Bread Philosophy: Learn about the author’s approach to sourdough baking. Different authors may have unique perspectives and methods, so find one that resonates with your baking style.
7. Sustainability and Health Focus: Some cookbooks emphasize sustainable and healthy baking practices, which may align with your values and dietary preferences.

These factors can help you choose a sourdough cookbook that improves your bread-making skills and aligns with your baker’s preferences and goals.

Common Mistakes and Tips for Successful Sourdough Baking

It is inevitable to encounter challenges along the way, but difficulties can be avoided with the right guidance.

Common Mistakes:

• One common mistake in sourdough baking is allowing more time for the dough to rise properly. This is important in developing sourdough bread’s signature flavor and texture.
• Using unfiltered tap water can introduce unwanted flavors and chemicals into the dough while using too hot or cold water can impact yeast activity and gluten development.
• Another related mistake is skipping the crucial windowpane test, which helps determine if the gluten has properly developed and the dough is ready to rise.
• Not forming or scoring the bread can result in uneven baking and poor rise.
• And finally, baking at the wrong temperature or being impatient can ruin all the hard work of creating the dough.

Tips:

For a successful sourdough bake, patience is key.

• Allow the dough ample time to rest and rise, and don’t rush the process. Use filtered water at the right temperature. Around 70-80°F is for best results to ensure optimal yeast activity and gluten development.
• Maintaining your sourdough starter is also crucial. Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients accurately and use a dough scraper to handle the dough, as overworking the dough can cause it to lose its structure and texture.
• Experiment with different flours and ingredients to find what works best for you.
• Consider using a Dutch oven or other covered pot for baking, as this helps create a perfect crust.
• Keep your starter healthy by feeding it regularly, discarding excess, storing it in a warm place, and not overworking the dough. With practice and perseverance, anyone can master the art of sourdough baking.

Try Some Out-of-this-world Flavors and Spice Up Your Taste

Now that you have mastered the basics of sourdough baking, why not take things further by trying new flavor combinations? There are a variety of spices and herbs that can be used to make your bread unique and flavorful.

Add some fresh rosemary or thyme to give it an herbal flavor or a pinch of turmeric for some spice. You could add dried fruit like raisins and apricots for sweetness, olives for saltiness, or nuts and seeds for crunch.

These additions will take your sourdough bread to the next level. Here are a couple of innovative recipes and flavor ideas that you might consider trying out:

Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Sourdough:

Infuse your sourdough with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and aromatic rosemary. Roast a garlic bulb until it’s soft and caramelized, then mash it into your dough before mixing. Add a generous amount of finely chopped fresh rosemary for an irresistible blend of savory and herbal notes.

Olive and Sun-Dried Tomato Sourdough:

Add briny green olives and chewy sun-dried tomatoes to your sourdough for a Mediterranean twist. Chop the olives and sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces and gently fold them into the dough during the shaping stage. The result is a bread bursting with tangy and savory flavors.

Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough:

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a delightful cinnamon raisin sourdough. Mix ground cinnamon and a handful of plump raisins into the dough during the initial mixing. As you shape the loaf, distribute the cinnamon and raisins evenly for a flavorful, aromatic swirl throughout the bread.

Seeded Whole Grain Sourdough:

Enhance the nutritional profile of your sourdough by incorporating a variety of seeds. Mix in flaxseeds, sunflower, pumpkin, and sesame seeds to add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to your loaf.

Cheddar and Jalapeno Sourdough:

Add a spicy kick to your sourdough by incorporating diced jalapeños and sharp cheddar cheese. Combining the heat from the peppers and the savory tang of the cheese creates a bread perfect for pairing with soups or enjoying as a standalone treat.

Chocolate Cherry Sourdough:

Indulge your sweet side with a unique chocolate cherry sourdough. Toss dried cherries in cocoa powder before adding them to the dough. The chocolatey aroma will fill your kitchen as the bread bakes, and the bursts of sweet cherries will create a delightful contrast.

Everything Bagel Sourdough:

Transform your sourdough into an “everything bagel” inspired loaf by coating the exterior with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, and onion. 

The result? A bread that captures the essence of your favorite bagel flavors.

Honey and Oat Sourdough:

Incorporate honey’s natural sweetness and oats’ nuttiness into your sourdough. Add a drizzle of honey to the dough and fold in rolled oats for a wholesome and comforting loaf.

Remember, sourdough baking is all about experimentation and creativity. Feel free to modify these recipes by adjusting ingredient quantities to suit your preferences. As you delve into these new flavors, you’ll discover a world of endless possibilities to elevate your sourdough creations.

Another way to experiment with your sourdough baking is by using different types of flour. Bakers often use a combination of wheat, spelled rye, and other flours for their loaves. Each flour will give the bread its unique flavor and texture. Experimenting with different combinations can be fun to see which ones you like best.

Once you’ve mastered the basics of sourdough baking, you can even try making specialty bread. The possibilities are endless, from baguettes and focaccia to sourdough pizza dough and croissants.

The Best Baking Books That Will Make You a Baking Pro!

The journey of becoming a master sourdough baker can be both challenging and rewarding. However, with guidance and resources, anyone can create delicious artisan bread to impress their friends and family.

Why not get one like “Flour Water Salt Yeast” and “Tartine Bread” by your side so you can access detailed instructions, mouthwatering recipes, and essential techniques needed to perfect your baking skills?

The book lists we added above are the must-have for any aspiring baker who wants to create amazing sourdough bread and pizza. So gear up with your baking equipment and quality ingredients, and try baking the anything-but-ordinary sourdough recipes.

Have fun, and let your creativity run wild.

Last update on 2024-09-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API