Q: I recently found your website while searching for a recipe for Sourdough Bread starter. I have made the bread in the past but only from someone else’s starter. I have never made the starter myself. The starter worked perfectly, and I made the first batch today. It was good, but I had a problem with it being a little “doughy”. Possibly I did not leave in the oven long enough, although the crust was a perfect golden brown and toothpick inserted came out clean. Was hoping you could give me suggestions as to what I did or did not do correctly.

I am keeping the starter going and will bake another batch next week. I am so glad I found your website. I will visit often and refer for more recipes and homemaking ideas, and some daily bread also. My family also lives in Kentucky. I know how very busy you must be but if you could find time to help me figure what went wrong with my bread I would be grateful.

I am going to attempt the Amish Friendship bread starter next. I cannot find anyone here who makes it, so I will try your starter for that also. God Bless you and all your efforts and thanks so much for sharing online with a working Mom and Wife who needs all the help she can get.

Sincerely, Cheryl

A: Cheryl, I have thought about your problem, and cannot guarantee my answer will help! But, I would suggest that you bake it for a bit longer or perhaps increase the rising time. Also, be sure that when you add the flour that it is light and fluffy – not packed into the measuring cup. Either sift the flour before measuring or stir the flour and spoon it into the measuring cup. Let me know how your next batch turns out!

I wish I could come over and watch your method – that might help me answer better! I hope you enjoy the Amish Friendship Bread Starter. It is so versatile!

I appreciate your really sweet comments! It means a lot to me!!