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sourdough bread scoring patterns

This recipe will guide you in making delicious sourdough bread featuring beautiful scoring patterns on top. These designs not only enhance the bread's appearance but also allow it to expand properly while baking.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 12 hours
Course Bread
Cuisine Artisan
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 kitchen scale
  • 1 dough scraper
  • 2 banneton or proofing basket
  • 1 sharp knife or razor blade (lame) for scoring
  • 1 baking stone or baking sheet
  • 1 Dutch oven (optional)
  • 1 food thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g bread flour
  • 350 g water room temperature
  • 100 g active sourdough starter
  • 10 g sea salt equivalent to 2 teaspoons

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of bread flour and 350g of water. Mix until no dry flour remains, creating a shaggy dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
  • After resting, add 100g of active sourdough starter and 10g of sea salt to the dough. Mix well until fully incorporated.
  • Begin the bulk fermentation by covering the bowl with a damp kitchen towel. Let the dough rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, performing stretch and folds every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours.
  • Once the dough has risen and appears bubbly, gently turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
  • Shape each portion into a round loaf by folding the edges toward the center. Flip the dough seam side down and shape it by rotating it against the surface to create tension on the outside.
  • Place the shaped loaves seam side up in bannetons or proofing baskets. Cover them with a damp cloth and let them proof for 1-2 hours at room temperature, or for a more robust flavor, refrigerate overnight (up to 12 hours).
  • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) during the final stages of proofing. If using a Dutch oven, place it in the oven while preheating.
  • Once fully proofed, carefully turn the loaves out onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or directly onto a piece of parchment if using a Dutch oven.
  • Use a sharp knife or razor blade to create your desired scoring patterns on top of the loaves.
  • If using a Dutch oven, carefully place the lid on and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown. If using a baking sheet, bake the loaves for 30 minutes or until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
  • Once baked, remove the loaves from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

Experiment with different scoring patterns, such as simple slashes, a cross, or leaves, to add unique designs to your bread.
Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.
For added flavor, you may include additional ingredients such as seeds or herbs during the mixing stage.
If you’re unable to use a Dutch oven, placing a shallow pan with hot water at the bottom of the oven can help create steam and improve crust development.