Why You’ll Love Valentine’s Day Bread – Sourdough White Chocolate Chips Strawberry Bread Recipe
This sourdough strawberry bread brings together the tang of fermented dough, the sweetness of white chocolate, and the brightness of strawberries—all in one visually stunning loaf. It’s a unique treat that tastes as good as it looks. Whether you’re baking for a loved one or treating yourself, this bread is perfect for brunch, dessert, or gifting. The natural pink tint and sweet aroma create a heartwarming, homemade feel.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the bread dough:
1 cup active sourdough starter
1/2 cup pureed fresh strawberries
1/4 cup warm water
2 1/2 cups bread flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
For the add-ins:
1/2 cup fresh diced strawberries
1/3 cup white chocolate chips
For topping:
2 tablespoons flour for dusting
Additional white chocolate chips for garnish
Directions
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Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, pureed strawberries, warm water, bread flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
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Incorporate add-ins: Gently fold in the diced strawberries and white chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
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First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for 4–6 hours, or until doubled in size.
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Shape and proof: Reshape the dough into a round loaf. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a proofing basket. Cover and let rise for another 2–3 hours.
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Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Dust the loaf with flour and score the top with a sharp knife. Add more white chocolate chips on top if desired.
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Bake: Carefully place the dough into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Cool and serve: Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy the soft pink crumb and sweet bites of white chocolate.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 slices
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rise Time: 6–8 hours
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per slice
Variations
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Use freeze-dried strawberries: For a more intense pink color and less moisture in the dough.
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Add lemon zest: For a brighter flavor contrast with the sweetness of the chocolate.
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Switch the chocolate: Try dark or ruby chocolate chips for a different flavor and color.
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Shape it differently: Use a heart-shaped mold for an extra Valentine’s touch.
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Make it vegan: Use dairy-free white chocolate chips and ensure your sourdough starter is vegan.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bread at room temperature in a paper bag or loosely covered with a clean towel for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster or oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chocolate rubbery.
FAQs
How do I make my bread more pink?
Using freeze-dried strawberries or adding a small amount of beet powder can boost the color without changing the flavor.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
You can bake the bread on a baking sheet with a tray of hot water in the oven to help create steam.
Can I make this bread without a sourdough starter?
No, a sourdough starter is essential for this recipe, as it replaces commercial yeast and gives the bread its signature tang.
Why is my dough too sticky?
This dough has a higher moisture content due to the fruit. Flour your hands and surface well when kneading.
Can I let it rise overnight?
Yes, the first rise can be done overnight in the fridge. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping.
Is this bread sweet or savory?
It’s slightly sweet due to the strawberries and white chocolate, but still balanced with the sourdough flavor.
How can I prevent the strawberries from making the dough soggy?
Chop the strawberries small and pat them dry with a paper towel before folding them in.
Can I toast this bread?
Yes, it toasts beautifully and pairs well with butter or cream cheese.
What toppings go well with this bread?
Try a spread of mascarpone, honey, or even Nutella for an extra indulgent treat.
Conclusion
Valentine’s Day Bread with sourdough, white chocolate chips, and strawberries is a beautiful blend of flavor and texture that’s perfect for celebrating love—or just your love of baking. With its soft pink interior and sweet-tart taste, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re gifting it or enjoying a slice yourself, this bread brings warmth and charm to any table.
Valentine’s Day Bread – Sourdough White Chocolate Chips Strawberry Bread
A festive and romantic sourdough bread infused with pureed and fresh strawberries, studded with white chocolate chips. This pink-hued loaf is perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup pureed fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh diced strawberries
- 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons flour for dusting
- Additional white chocolate chips for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the sourdough starter, pureed strawberries, warm water, bread flour, sugar, and salt until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries and white chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a proofing basket. Cover and let rise for another 2-3 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Dust the loaf with flour, score the top, and optionally add extra white chocolate chips on top.
- Carefully transfer the dough to the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for a more vibrant pink interior.
- Avoid over-kneading to prevent the strawberries from releasing excess moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
