There’s something truly special about baking sourdough—it’s a slow, mindful process that transforms simple ingredients into a beautiful, nourishing loaf. This heart-shaped sourdough bread is a perfect way to share love through food, whether for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or just because. With its golden, crispy crust and soft, airy crumb, this loaf is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

Sourdough bread has been cherished for centuries, known for its deep flavor, natural fermentation, and gut-friendly benefits. The long fermentation process enhances digestibility while creating a rich, slightly tangy taste that pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savory toppings. This heart-shaped version is a playful twist on a classic, bringing warmth and charm to any table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your sourdough journey, shaping your loaf into a heart is a fun and creative way to spread a little extra love. ??

Valentine’s Day Heart-Shaped Sourdough Loaf

Ingredients

• 500g (4 cups) bread flour
• 350g (1 ½ cups) water
• 100g (½ cup) active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
• 10g (2 tsp) salt

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough (Autolyse)

• In a large bowl, mix the flour and water until combined. Let it rest for 30-45 minutes.
• Add the sourdough starter and mix well. Let it rest for 20 minutes.
• Sprinkle salt over the dough and mix until incorporated.

2. Bulk Fermentation (4-6 hours at room temp)

• Perform stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours.
• Let the dough rest and ferment until it has risen about 50%.

3. Shaping the Heart

• Lightly flour your work surface and gently turn out the dough.
• Pre-shape into a round and let it rest for 20 minutes.
• To form a heart:
  1. Shape the dough into an oval.
  2. Use your fingers to pinch a small indent at the top center.
  3. Gently elongate and taper the bottom to create a point.
  4. Tuck the sides slightly to enhance the heart shape.

4. Cold Fermentation (Overnight in the Fridge)

• Place the shaped dough into a well-floured heart-shaped banneton or a bowl lined with a floured towel.
• Cover and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours).

5. Baking the Loaf

• Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
• Place the dough on parchment paper and gently score the heart shape for definition.
• Transfer to the hot Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the lid and bake for 15-20 more minutes until golden brown.

6. Cool and Enjoy!

• Let the loaf cool completely before slicing.