I love playing with flavors! I have been experimenting with different flavors and here are the ones I have found work the best!
Adding mix-ins to bread dough is a fantastic way to elevate a simple loaf into something extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for savory, sweet, or even spicy flavors, the right add-ins can transform your bread into a versatile and flavorful creation.
These ideas are particularly wonderful for sourdough, as the tangy, complex base of the bread pairs beautifully with a variety of ingredients. From the nuttiness of seeds to the boldness of garlic or the sweetness of dried fruit, these mix-ins can cater to any taste preference.
They not only enhance the flavor but also add texture, color, and an element of surprise to every slice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your bread-making journey, experimenting with add-ins is a fun and rewarding way to take your loaves to the next level.
Things you can add to bread
- Cheese: Add shredded cheese like cheddar, Parmesan, or even blue cheese to your sourdough for a savory, melty flavor throughout the loaf. Cheddar works well for a classic flavor, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty taste. Fold the cheese into the dough during the first stretch and fold, or sprinkle it on top for a cheesy crust.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives can elevate the flavor of sourdough. Chop the herbs finely and knead them into the dough for even distribution. Dried herbs like oregano, basil, or herbes de Provence also work well for a Mediterranean-inspired loaf.
- Garlic: Roasted garlic cloves add a mild, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the tang of sourdough. Roast whole cloves until soft and golden, then gently fold them into the dough. For a stronger kick, use minced raw garlic.
- Olives: Kalamata or green olives bring a salty, briny flavor to sourdough. Chop the olives into small pieces and pat them dry to avoid adding too much moisture to the dough. Mix them in during the initial stretch and fold for even distribution.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and a nutty depth to the bread. Toast the nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor. This works especially well when paired with dried fruit for a sweet-and-savory loaf.
- Seeds: Sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flaxseeds, or pumpkin seeds can be sprinkled into the dough for extra texture. You can also coat the outside of the loaf with seeds before baking for a visually appealing crust.
- Dried Fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots add a natural sweetness to the bread. They pair wonderfully with spices like cinnamon or cardamom. Soak the dried fruit in warm water or juice before adding it to the dough to keep it soft and plump.
- Chocolate: Add chunks of dark or milk chocolate for a dessert-style sourdough. This works especially well with a touch of cinnamon or orange zest. Incorporate the chocolate during the final stretch and fold to avoid melting during kneading.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon or two of cinnamon, nutmeg, smoked paprika, or turmeric for a flavorful twist. Cinnamon pairs well with dried fruit, while smoked paprika gives a savory edge.
- Veggies: Grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach can add moisture and subtle flavor to your loaf. Squeeze out excess water from the veggies before incorporating them to avoid making the dough too wet.
- Onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet, savory flavor to sourdough. Cook the onions until they are golden brown and soft, then fold them into the dough. They pair wonderfully with herbs and cheese.
- Jalapeños: Add chopped fresh or pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick. Pair with cheddar for a jalapeño-cheddar sourdough, a classic flavor combination.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning into the dough or coat the crust with it before baking. The blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt gives the bread a familiar and delicious flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of a lemon, lime, or orange for a bright and fragrant loaf. This works well in sweet or semi-sweet sourdoughs, especially when combined with dried fruit or chocolate.
- Beer or Wine: Replace some of the water in your dough with beer or wine for unique flavor notes. Beer adds a malty richness, while wine can add a slight tang or fruitiness depending on the type.
Combinations of Add Ins
Here are 10 interesting combinations to elevate your bread, perfect for sourdough or any homemade loaf:
- Rosemary, Garlic, and Parmesan
- A savory mix with fresh rosemary, roasted garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese for an aromatic and flavorful loaf.
- Cranberry and Walnut
- A classic combination of sweet dried cranberries and crunchy walnuts, perfect for breakfast or as a holiday treat.
- Cheddar and Jalapeño
- A spicy and cheesy combination with shredded cheddar and sliced jalapeños, ideal for a bold, flavorful bread.
- Olive, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Basil
- A Mediterranean-inspired blend with chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil for a rustic and hearty loaf.
- Chocolate and Orange Zest
- A sweet and fragrant pairing with chunks of dark chocolate and freshly grated orange zest, perfect for dessert or brunch.
- Caramelized Onion and Thyme
- Sweet, savory caramelized onions combined with fresh thyme for a bread that pairs wonderfully with soups and stews.
- Pumpkin Seeds, Flaxseeds, and Sunflower Seeds
- A nutrient-packed loaf with a mix of seeds for crunch and texture, great for sandwiches or toast.
- Cinnamon, Raisin, and Pecan
- A sweet and nutty combination featuring warm cinnamon, plump raisins, and crunchy pecans, perfect for breakfast.
- Chili Flakes, Smoked Paprika, and Sharp Cheddar
- A smoky, spicy blend with chili flakes, smoky paprika, and sharp cheddar for a bread with a kick.
- Zucchini and Lemon Zest
- Grated zucchini adds moisture, while lemon zest provides a bright, fresh flavor, making this loaf light and refreshing.
