Every late summer, flour dusting kitchen counters and the rich aroma of wild yeast filling home bakeries signal a special time of year. Welcome to Sourdough September, an international annual celebration created by the Real Bread Campaign. Founded to champion additive-free, traditionally fermented bread, this month-long event invites everyone—from first-time kitchen experimenters to seasoned master bakers—to slow down, nurture a starter, and enjoy the unmatched flavor and texture of REAL™ Sourdough bread.
What is Sourdough September?
Launched as part of a global movement to protect craft baking, Sourdough September focuses on the beauty of simplicity: flour, water, salt, and time. Unlike fast-processed industrial loaves that rely on commercial yeasts, artificial improvers, and chemical preservatives, genuine sourdough uses wild yeasts and lactic acid bacteria to naturally ferment the dough.
This slow process breaks down gluten, unlocks complex nutrients, and creates the distinctively tangy, complex flavor profiles and chewy crusts that bread lovers adore. Sourdough September serves as a global reminder to back independent bakeries, share starters, and pass down baking skills across generations.
Core Themes & Key Highlights
1. The Sourdough Swap
The simplest way to participate is the "Sourdough Swap." For the month of September, commit to replacing ultra-processed grocery store loaves with true sourdough.
The campaign works to educate consumers on avoiding "sourfaux"—mass-produced industrial breads that use sourdough flavorings or souring agents alongside rapid commercial yeast to mimic the real thing without going through proper fermentation.
You can pick up a loaf of our REAL Sourdough Bread at our bakery, at local stores, and at Farmer's Markets.
2. Free Starters and Community Outreach
Throughout the month, craft bakeries and local baking communities frequently host starter giveaways. If you have been hesitant to culture your own wild yeast from scratch, September is the ideal time to take a clean glass jar to your local neighborhood bakery; many are eager to share a portion of active sourdough culture to get you started on your journey.
3. Celebrating "Slow Dough" Traditions
Slow fermentation is more than just a technique; it is a philosophy. The month celebrates classic baking resources, including iconic community cookbooks like Slow Dough: Real Bread, which showcase traditional fermentation techniques, high-hydration handling, and creative uses for starter discard.
4. Hands-On Workshops and Events
Community centers, culinary schools, and artisan kitchens host live workshops throughout the month. These events cover everything from mastering dough hydration and scoring techniques to exploring regional heritage grains, baking in Dutch ovens, and pairing sourdough with savory dishes.
Getting Started in Your Kitchen
Whether you are looking to bake a classic artisan sourdough boule, crispy sandwich loaves, pizza crusts, or sweet sourdough rolls, getting involved is simple and deeply rewarding:
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Build or Refresh Your Starter: Combine equal parts flour and water to keep your active culture bubbly and ready for baking.
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Master the Stretch and Fold: Skip heavy mechanical kneading. Gentle stretch-and-fold cycles during bulk fermentation build a strong, flexible gluten structure naturally.
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Bake with Steam: Using a preheated Dutch oven or adding steam to your home oven traps moisture during early baking, allowing maximum oven spring and a blistering, crispy crust.
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Support Local Craft Bakers: If you are short on time, support independent bakeries that prioritize genuine, long-fermentation methods.
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Join the Conversation: Share pictures of your open crumb, scoring patterns, and fresh loaves on social media using
#SourdoughSeptemberto connect with a thriving network of passionate home bakers worldwide.
Taking the time to bake slowly reconnects us with fundamental ingredients and rewarding, age-old culinary traditions. Feed your starter, heat your oven, and enjoy the satisfying process of making real bread this September.