# Reviewing the King Arthur Baking Sourdough Sidekick Appliance An automated kitchen gadget designed to simplify sourdough starter maintenance for home bakers. - **Source:** [Wired](https://www.wired.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [technology](https://brifing.si/c/technology) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/15ee5406-340a-495c-86d2-b47599303b3e ## Automated Sourdough Maintenance The Sourdough Sidekick, developed by King Arthur Baking and GE Appliances’ FirstBuild lab, automates the feeding process for sourdough starters. Priced at $180, the device features a flour hopper, water reservoir, and a stirring paddle. It aims to solve the common issue of forgotten feedings for busy home bakers who struggle with consistency. ## Setup and Initial Challenges Initial setup requires calibrating water and flour ratios using a scale, a process described as fiddly and time-consuming. Users must follow the instruction booklet carefully to ensure proper dispensing. A firmware update via the SmartHQ app is necessary to enable correct water dispensing, as the device may malfunction without the latest software. ## Operational Modes and Customization The machine offers Auto, Ratio, and Custom modes to accommodate different baking needs. Users can dictate specific flour and water quantities or set feeding schedules for up to seven days. While it lacks internal temperature control, the device uses ambient temperature data to adjust feeding amounts automatically during the Auto Mode cycle. ## Performance and Noise Levels The stirring cycle occurs every two hours, accompanied by a loud beep and mechanical whirring that can be startling. Despite the noise, the paddle effectively incorporates flour and water into the starter. The resulting starter may appear less bubbly than traditional methods, but it remains fermented and ready for baking bread. ## App Connectivity and Reliability The SmartHQ app provides limited functionality, primarily displaying settings and sending notifications when the starter is ready. It does not allow for remote control of the device. However, a recent firmware update added power-loss recovery, allowing the machine to resume its schedule after power interruptions lasting up to twelve hours of downtime. ## Yield and Practical Usage By the end of a typical week, the crock contains over 400 grams of starter, sufficient for two boules and a sandwich loaf. If the baker is not ready to use the starter, the excess can be discarded or stored in the refrigerator. All removable components are conveniently top-rack dishwasher safe. ## Comparison to Manual Methods The final bread quality is indistinguishable from starters maintained manually using a spoon and a jar. The device is not a necessity for experienced bakers, but it serves as a helpful tool for those intimidated by the maintenance process. It effectively removes the burden of daily care for a sourdough starter. ## Market Position and Value The Sourdough Sidekick is a premium kitchen-tech gift for enthusiasts who value convenience over cost. While significantly more expensive than traditional manual tools, it successfully enables consistent baking for busy individuals. It represents a niche but effective solution for maintaining a starter without the risk of neglect or forgotten feeding cycles. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.wired.com/review/king-arthur-baking-sourdough-sidekick/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._