Sourdough September

September is the perfect time to revive your sourdough starter and transform the cooler evenings into warm, crusty loaves that you’ll want to share with friends and family. This month encourages you to feed your starter regularly, bake with seasonal grains or fruits, and plan a few slow, flavorful fermentations to make the most of this delightful season.

Quick Facts

When is it?: 1 September

Tagged as: Sourdough September

What’s the hashtag?: #SourdoughSeptember #BakeWithLove #ArtisanBread

When was it founded?: Not clearly documented; it has become a popular observance in the baking community over recent years.

Who founded it?: Commonly attributed to enthusiasts and bakers who wanted to celebrate the art of sourdough baking.

History of Sourdough September

Sourdough September is a relatively new phenomenon in the world of baking, celebrating the age-old tradition of sourdough bread making. While the exact origin is not well-documented, it has gained traction among baking communities around the world, particularly in places where sourdough has a rich history. The observance encourages bakers to explore the nuances of sourdough, from starter maintenance to experimenting with various flavors and techniques.

As bakers have begun to share their passion for sourdough on social media platforms, the concept of Sourdough September has flourished, inspiring more people to take on the challenge of baking their own bread. It emphasizes the joy of baking, the importance of using seasonal ingredients, and the satisfaction of creating something from scratch.

Timeline

2026: Launch of various sourdough baking challenges on social media.
2027: Increased popularity of sourdough workshops and classes.
2028: Emergence of sourdough festivals celebrating local bakers.
2029: Mainstream media features stories about the benefits of home baking.
2030: Collaboration with local farmers to promote seasonal ingredients in baking.
2031: More bakeries begin to participate in Sourdough September events.
2032: Online communities grow, sharing recipes and tips for sourdough enthusiasts.
2033: Expansion of Sourdough September into international observance with global participation.

Past and Future Date

Year	Month	Date
2026	September	1-30
2027	September	1-30
2028	September	1-30
2029	September	1-30
2030	September	1-30
2031	September	1-30
2032	September	1-30
2033	September	1-30

Observed

Sourdough September is observed by baking enthusiasts around the world who take the opportunity to revive their sourdough starters and create delicious loaves. Many people participate by sharing their baking experiences on social media, joining local baking groups, and hosting tastings with friends and family. It is a time for bakers to connect, exchange recipes, and celebrate the process of making bread.

Activities for This Day

1. Revive Your Starter

Bring your sourdough starter back to life by feeding it regularly and observing its growth.

2. Experiment with Flavors

Try adding seasonal fruits or grains to your bread, such as apples or whole wheat flour.

3. Join a Local Baking Class

Participate in a workshop to learn new techniques and meet fellow sourdough enthusiasts.

4. Host a Sourdough Tasting

Invite friends over for a toast-and-tasting evening featuring various sourdough breads.

5. Share Your Creations

Post pictures of your sourdough loaves on social media using the hashtag #SourdoughSeptember.

How to Celebrate Sourdough September

Feed your sourdough starter regularly.
Plan a baking schedule that allows for long fermentations.
Experiment with different flours and ingredients.
Join online communities or local baking groups.
Share your baking journey with friends and family.

Why Sourdough September is Important

Sourdough September is important because it highlights the art of baking, encourages the use of seasonal ingredients, and fosters a sense of community among bakers. It promotes the idea of slowing down and appreciating the process of making bread, which has deep cultural significance in many societies. This observance also helps to inspire new bakers to discover the joys of sourdough baking, creating a renewed interest in traditional baking methods.

FAQ

1. What is Sourdough September?

Sourdough September is a month-long celebration dedicated to the art of sourdough bread making, encouraging people to revive their starters and explore different baking techniques.

2. How do I start a sourdough starter?

You can start a sourdough starter by mixing equal parts of flour and water and allowing it to ferment at room temperature. Regular feedings will help it develop.

3. What types of flour can I use for sourdough?

You can use a variety of flours, including all-purpose, whole wheat, and rye. Experimenting with different flours can add unique flavors to your bread.

4. How long does it take to bake sourdough bread?

The total time can vary, but expect to spend several hours on fermentation and shaping, plus baking time. A good rule of thumb is to plan for at least one full day.

5. Can I use my sourdough starter for other recipes?

Yes! Your sourdough starter can be used in a variety of recipes, including pancakes, waffles, and muffins.

6. What if my starter isn’t bubbling?

If your starter isn’t bubbling, it may need more frequent feedings or a warmer environment to encourage fermentation.