National Sourdough Bread Day

National Sourdough Bread Day is an annual American holiday devoted to sourdough bread. This recipe has been known for centuries and is actively used in baking. The holiday is celebrated on April 1 and is a great excuse to buy a freshly baked loaf of bread and enjoy its wonderful taste!

History

Sourdough bread began to be made in the second half of the 19th century, following the discoveries of Louis Pasteur in the field of microbiology. He discovered microorganisms that cause fermentation, which could be intentionally used in cooking. Thus, sourdough was developed, allowing bakers to make fluffy and very tasty bread. This new method was successfully adopted by French bakers.

Sourdough bread came to the United States during the Gold Rush, gaining popularity in California, particularly in San Francisco. This recipe became deeply ingrained in the culture of the city, and sourdough bread itself became a culinary symbol. The emergence of this product in the United States is what National Sourdough Bread Day commemorates!

To make sourdough bread, lactobacilli are added to the dough. These bacteria promote the active production of acids, giving the bread its distinctive slightly tart taste, pleasant sourness, and a unique set of flavors and aromas, all made possible by the fermentation process.

Interesting Facts

• Eating sourdough bread can improve digestive function and provide the body with amino acids, vitamins, and plant-based protein.
• Due to the natural breakdown of flour into simpler substances during the dough preparation, thanks to the acids and enzymes, the final product is much easier for the body to digest.
• The key features of sourdough bread are its porous structure and slightly sour taste.

How to Celebrate

Buy freshly baked bread from a bakery to enjoy its taste. Surprise your family and friends by making your own sourdough bread—recipes can easily be found online, along with tutorial videos.

Share information about the holiday on social media. Ask users what kind of bread they prefer: regular or sourdough? Why?

When is National Sourdough Bread Day in 2025?

National Sourdough Bread Day is observed on April 1 each year.

Observations