Sourdough bread is an art form, and something professional bakers take very seriously—especially in the Hudson Valley.
Since the bread-making boom that arose in the midst of the pandemic, sourdough has become more popular than ever. People across the country took part in their own DIY breadmaking, activating yeast and all. Due to this boom, you can imagine the average person has developed a more advanced palate. But alas, local bakeries have risen to the occasion to deliver some of the best sourdough breads you can find in the Hudson Valley (or, dare we say, anywhere).
So forget the oven, put away that starter, and indulge in these ready-to-eat artisanal baguettes and loaves alike.
All You Knead
Beacon
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Owner Simone Williams is very particular and precise with her sourdough. Living in San Francisco for several years gave her the expertise to craft the perfect sourdough—as the city has its own signature style. The All You Knead plain sourdough loaf takes three days to make in warmer months, and four in the winter. With ingredients in mind, the bakery keeps it simple. The bread consists only of flour, water, and salt. Consequently, the loaf itself is blistery and crusty on the outside, with an airy and non-dense center.
Beacon Bread Co.
Beacon
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What sounds better than crispy, French-style sourdough bread? Beacon Bread Co. has been serving the greater Hudson Valley community since 2014. Its sourdough, of course, has been a staple of brunch feasts at the Dutchess County hotspot for years. However, this bakery’s breadmaking process is no easy feat. The sourdough bread takes two days to make. Crisp on the outside, as well as chewy and airy on the middle, this is the closest one gets to bread heaven. In addition, the signature house sourdough can be bought as loaves or boules.
Bread Alone
Boiceville, Rhinebeck, Woodstock
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If you’re looking for a variety of sourdough bread, Bread Alone is the place to be. The organic San Francisco-style sourdough features a distinctive, tangy center. Out of all its breads, this one may be the most sour (in a wonderful way). This bread enjoys a long and cool overnight rest, similar to breads made on the West Coast. In addition to the San Francisco sourdough, this powerhouse bakery crafts two different French sourdough loaves, and one whole wheat sourdough to spice things up. Opt for the full loaf or grab a bag of pre-sliced bread for easy cooking.
The Hudson Oven
Croton-on-Hudson
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In Westchester County, The Hudson Oven crafts organic breads and pastries in its kitchen. The classic sourdough country loaf is baked with freshly milled, organic, New York State grain, which gives it a golden and crusty exterior. If you’re looking to add some flavor into the everyday sour loaf, the raisin walnut sourdough gives a hint of sweetness to the bread that perfectly balances the sour flavor. What’s more, The Hudson Oven also has you covered if you want to give sourdough a go in your own home, thanks to its sourdough starter pack.
Katie Rose Bakery
Hopewell Junction
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Culinary Institute of America alum Katlynn VanZandt is dedicated to her breadmaking craft. Her bakery makes an exquisite sourdough bread that few could resist. The loaf itself is sour, but not too sour. This bread is perfect for people who don’t usually like sourdough. And Katlynn would know, as she’s been perfecting this loaf for years. The inside is light and airy like a cloud, with a crunchy golden crust. Happen to have a gluten intolerance or other dietary restrictions? Katie Rose Bakery also crafts gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free sourdoughs that are well worth a try.Â
Kingston Bread+Bar
Kingston
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The people over at Kingston Bread+Bar know their way around a sourdough loaf. For instance, take the classic sourdough: The Upstate Levain. This particular loaf is made with the bakery’s special 50/50 mix of white and whole wheat flour. The locally sourced flour, (courtesy of Hudson Valley Farm Hub glour), is hearty and earthy. Distinctively, this is a fairly dark bake. However, the inside is light and creamy, with an airy and uniform structure. As you can imagine, the outside is perfectly crusty and crisp. Although the bakery regularly switches out its breads and loaves, stay updated on social media to make sure sourdough is in stock.Â
Sparrowbush Bakery
Livingston
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From its headquarters in Columbia County, Sparrowbush delights Hudson Valley bread lovers with its naturally leavened loaves that utilize freshly milled flour. Head to the bakery’s website to see where you can pick up the artisanal delights, which range from classic table bread to raisin oat, sesame, and spelt, just to name a few. Expect that first cut to reveal dough that’s delightfully porous and ideal for sopping up sauce or serving as a base for DIY sandwiches.
P.S. Did we miss a spot? Email our editor at ksexton@hvmag.com so we can add it!
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