I have read that sourdough bread can fail to brown as toast if itxs been fermented so much that much of the sugars have been used up, leaving less for caramelisation.
Quote from: Mrs Pingu on 17 February, 2021, 09:29:44 pmI have read that sourdough bread can fail to brown as toast if itxs been fermented so much that much of the sugars have been used up, leaving less for caramelisation.Acid inhibits the Maillard reaction, so if it is sour, it takes longer/is less likely to brown. With pretzels you do the opposite, dunking in a strong alkali really promotes the browning when baking
As a quick fix, simply paint your bread with gravy. Though there might be accusations of 'blacking up' so don't Instagram it.