Name: Three Cheese Sourdough
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 26 h 10 min
Ingredients: 35 grams ripe sourdough starter, about 2 Tablespoons; 35 grams bread flour, about 1/4 cup; 35 grams water, about 2 Tablespoons; 100 grams ripe/bubbly/peaked levain, scant 1/2 cup; 450 grams bread flour, about 3 1/4 cup; 50 grams whole wheat flour, about 1/3 cup; 375 grams water, 25 grams reserved for after fermentolyse, about 1 1/2 cups water (plus 1 Tablespoon reserved for after fermentolyse); 10 grams salt, about 1.5 teaspoons; 50 grams Parmesan cheese, shredded, about 1/2 cup; 50 grams Gruyere cheese, shredded, about 1/2 cup; 100 grams sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, about 1 cup

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Three Cheese Sourdough is a delightful fusion of tangy sourdough and creamy cheeses, creating a fluffy, flavor-packed loaf that’s easy to make at home. This scrumptious recipe takes just a couple of hours to prepare, perfect for any cheese lover. With Three Cheese Sourdough, you’ll quickly elevate your baking game and impress your family and friends.

Growing up in my mom’s kitchen, Saturday mornings were all about cooking together and sharing recipes like this Three Cheese Sourdough. The warm, cheesy aroma always brought us closer, reminding me of our family tradition of connecting through food. Now, as I make this bread with my daughters, I treasure every moment spent teaching them the magic of cooking, just like my mom did for me. If you’re just starting your own sourdough journey, you might enjoy learning how to make a sourdough starter from scratch. And for more delicious ideas, try our Organic Sourdough Bread or indulge in sweet, comforting Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls—perfect for weekend mornings.

Why you’ll love Three Cheese Sourdough

Flavor Explosion Each bite delivers a delightful blend of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy parmesan that elevates your taste experience.
Perfect Texture Enjoy the incredible crust that shatters beautifully while the inside remains airy and soft, a true artisan delight.
Easy Recipe With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find that baking this bread feels effortless and rewarding.
Versatile Use Whether it’s paired with soup, used for sandwiches, or served with olive oil, this sourdough shines in every meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Start the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine your fed sourdough starter with water to create a bubbly mixture. Add the flour and salt and mix until the dough comes together. This is where the magic begins as the dough starts to form a cohesive structure.
Step 2: Bulk Fermentation
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for about 4-6 hours. During this time, perform stretch and folds every 30 minutes to help develop the gluten. This process enhances the texture of the bread, making it chewy and delicious.
Step 3: Shaping the Dough
Once the dough has risen and shows bubbles, gently turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape the dough into a round loaf by folding the edges toward the center, creating tension on the surface. This step is crucial for getting that perfect crust.
Step 4: Second Rise
Place the shaped dough into a proofing basket or bowl lined with a floured cloth. Cover it and let it rise for another 1-2 hours, or until it’s puffy. This rise is essential for the final texture, giving you that airy crumb.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is key to achieving a beautifully crusty exterior. If you’re using a Dutch oven, place it inside to heat up as well.
Step 6: Scoring the Dough
Once the dough has finished rising, carefully turn it out onto parchment paper. Use a sharp knife or a lame to score the top of the dough. This allows the bread to expand properly in the oven, creating gorgeous patterns.
Step 7: Baking the Bread
Transfer the dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover it, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid to let the loaf develop its crust for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown. The anticipation builds as the aroma fills your kitchen.
Step 8: Cooling
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. This cooling time is important—it allows the interior to set and enhances the flavor profile of your fresh loaf.

Sourdough Baker’s Timeline

A sample baking schedule really helps when making Three Cheese Sourdough, since sourdough rises more slowly than regular yeast bread. This timeline makes planning easier and more manageable.

Note: This schedule assumes the dough stays around 78°F. If you prefer same-day baking, skip the cold ferment and let your Three Cheese Sourdough rise at room temperature in a bowl or banneton before baking.

*Day 1*	Levain/Mixing/Bulk Fermentation/Shaping/Cold Fermentation
8:00 AM –11:30 AM	Mix Levain. Let sit at 78°F for about 3-4 hours until doubled/bubbly and ripe.
11:30 AM	Fermentolyse: Mix bread flour, whole wheat flour, water and ripe/active/bubbly levain. Let sit for 30 minutes before adding in the salt and reserved water.
12:00 PM	Mix dough with salt and reserved water
12:30 PM 1:00 PM 1:30 PM 2:00 PM	Stretch and Fold #1 Stretch and Fold #2 Add all of the shredded cheese Stretch and Fold #3 Stretch and Fold #4 if desired
3:30 PM	Bench Rest
4:00 PM	Shape dough Begin cold fermentation
Day 2
9:00 AM	Preheat Dutch oven
9:30 AM	Score and Bake

Notes

Tip 1: Starter Activity
Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it; this will guarantee good rise in your bread.
Tip 2: Hydration Level
Feel free to adjust the water content depending on your flour type. Softer flours might require a bit more water to achieve the right dough consistency.
Tip 3: Cheese Choices
Experiment with different cheeses based on your preference; sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan are a great mix that adds depth and flavor.

Adding Cheese to Three Cheese Sourdough Bread

To make your Three Cheese Sourdough extra flavorful, add the shredded cheeses right before the second set of stretch and folds. As you fold the dough, the cheese will naturally mix in. You can also use coil folds if you prefer. Repeat one or two more sets until the cheese is evenly incorporated throughout the dough.

Three Cheese Sourdough – A Closer Look

There’s something truly special about the flavors that come together in this Three Cheese Sourdough bread. The combination of rich, melting cheeses creates a delightful creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tangy notes of the sourdough. The crust turns a glorious golden brown while the scent of baking cheese wafts through the air, inviting everyone to gather around the kitchen. Each slice of the loaf reveals pockets of gooey cheese, contributing to the textural masterpiece that this bread becomes.

Bringing It to Your Kitchen

Imagine serving up freshly baked Three Cheese Sourdough at your next family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. It’s the type of bread that brings people together, whether used as a base for sumptuous sandwiches or enjoyed on its own with a bit of butter. It makes for a perfect accompaniment to soups and salads, and I can already picture faces lighting up with delight as they take their first bite. This bread is not just food; it’s an experience to share and cherish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Three Cheese Sourdough, one common mistake is not allowing sufficient time for rising. Be patient! Rushing can lead to denser bread. Additionally, make sure your oven is properly preheated; hitting the correct temperature ensures a great crust. Finally, always trust your senses—if your dough looks and feels right, go with it! Avoiding these pitfalls will leave you with a beautifully baked loaf every time.

Cook Techniques

Mixing the Dough

To make Three Cheese Sourdough, start by mixing your flour, water, and sourdough starter in a large bowl. Combine using a wooden spoon until a shaggy, rough dough forms. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Aim for a sticky texture—don’t worry, it will come together as you knead!

Kneading with Love

Once your dough is combined, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes, adding flour as necessary, until it becomes smooth and elastic. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels soft but not sticky and springs back when pressed. This step builds that wonderful structure needed for a great loaf!

Bulk Fermentation

After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm area for 4-6 hours, or until it has doubled in size. During this time, you can perform stretch and folds every hour to develop the gluten—it’ll help give your Three Cheese Sourdough a lovely open crumb structure.

Shaping the Dough

Once your dough has risen beautifully, turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently shape it into a round or oval loaf, tucking the edges underneath to create surface tension. This is crucial for the final rise! Let it sit for another 30 minutes before placing it into a proving basket or bowl lined with a floured cloth.

Baking the Bread

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up for about 30 minutes. Carefully place your dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover it, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C). The aroma will be heavenly, and the crust will be beautifully crisp!

If you liked this, you’ll also like…
Sourdough Croissants
Sourdough Discard Pizza Dough
Sourdough Discard Banana Pancakes
Sourdough Discard Focaccia

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Artisan Bread Board

Serve your Three Cheese Sourdough on a wooden board accompanied by a selection of cheeses—think sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and tangy blue cheese. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a pop of color and fragrance.

With Homemade Dips

Slice your warm bread and serve it alongside a basil pesto or roasted garlic aioli. The contrasting flavors will make for an inviting presentation, and the green colors will pop against the golden crust of your loaf!

Toast with Toppings

Create an open-face sandwich with slices of your Three Cheese Sourdough. Top with smashed avocado and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a trendy brunch dish. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of gourmet flair!

Accompaniments

This bread pairs wonderfully with hearty soups like tomato basil or creamy chowders. Serve it in a deep, rustic bowl for a cozy feel. A glass of red wine or a hoppy craft beer complements the flavors beautifully!

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Conclusion

Your homemade Three Cheese Sourdough is not just bread; it’s an experience bursting with flavors, textures, and aromas. Ideal for weeknights, gatherings, or even special holiday meals, this loaf is sure to impress everyone at the table.

With simple steps and a bit of love infused in the process, your Three Cheese Sourdough not only elevates your dinner but brings warmth into your home, making any evening feel celebratory. Enjoy the joy of baking that connects you to family traditions!

Three Cheese Sourdough