About The Baker
Holly Ledingham - Baker, Creative & Entrepreneur
Welcome to Sourdough Bloom! I’m Holly, and I’m so delighted to have you here. As the heart and hands behind Sourdough Bloom, every doughy creation is a piece of my journey—a blend of tradition and innovation, crafted with love and a sprinkle of family heritage.
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My passion for baking, rooted in my love for creating, extends seamlessly into other artistic endeavors. With precision and care, I bring to life intricate macramé designs, cozy knitted treasures, delicate crochet patterns, and detailed needlepoint art. My creativity spills over into vibrant chalk art, expressive paintings, and unique resin crafts, each piece telling its own story.
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Gathering seashells along our local Florida beach, I create ocean-inspired art. At home, I use my space as a canvas, expressing my flair for decoration and crafting a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the love and care I invest in every corner.
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In quiet moments, I type away on my antique Royal typewriter, thoughts punctuated by rhythmic clacks. And in the spirit of lifelong learning, I’m currently strumming new melodies on the ukulele. Welcome to my world, where every loaf, stitch, and brushstroke is an invitation to savor the simple pleasures of life. Thank you for stopping by!
About Bloom
The Heart Of Sourdough Bloom
At Sourdough Bloom, our passion for artisan bread is embodied in our cherished sourdough starter, affectionately named “Bloom”. This bubbly culture is not just the foundation of our bakery; it’s a living, breathing entity that infuses love and life into every loaf.
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Origin Story: “Bloom” was born from a blend of organic flour and pure spring water, capturing the wild yeasts and friendly bacteria that float through our bakery’s air. Over time, “Bloom” has matured, developing a complex flavor profile that is both tangy and nuanced, much like a fine wine.
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Characteristics:
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Aroma: “Bloom” carries a delightful scent that hints at fruity apple undertones and a touch of earthy fermentation.
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Texture: With a consistency that’s both elastic and robust, “Bloom” is the perfect balance of strength and flexibility, ensuring our breads have that signature chew and airy crumb.
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Flavor: The taste of “Bloom” is unparalleled, offering a subtle sourness that complements the natural sweetness of the grains we use.
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The Science Behind the Bloom: Sourdough starters like “Bloom” are a fascinating alchemy of biology and chemistry. The wild yeasts present in “Bloom” are responsible for the leavening of our bread, while the lactic acid bacteria contribute to the tangy flavor and act as natural preservatives.
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Sustainability: “Bloom” is a testament to our commitment to sustainability. By using a sourdough starter, we avoid commercial yeast, reducing our carbon footprint. Moreover, “Bloom” thrives on a diet of flour and water, ensuring minimal waste in our baking process.
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Community Impact: “Bloom” is more than just a starter; it’s a symbol of community and tradition. We share “Bloom” with local enthusiasts and fellow bakers, spreading the joy of sourdough and fostering a culture of sharing and learning.
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Join us at Sourdough Bloom and experience the magic of “Bloom” in every slice. It’s not just bread; it’s a piece of history, a slice of science, and a loaf of love.