Follow these easy steps to create your Chocolate Cherry Sourdough Bread:

1. Mix the Starter: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of active sourdough starter with 1 ½ cups of warm water. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 4 cups of bread flour, 1 cup of cocoa powder, ½ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Incorporate Chocolate and Cherries: Gently fold in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips and 1 cup of dried tart cherries until well distributed.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise for about 3 hours, performing stretch and folds every 30 minutes.
6. Shape the Loaf: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently deflate it. Shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference.
7. Second Rise: Transfer the shaped dough to a floured proofing basket or a bowl lined with a floured kitchen towel. Cover and allow it to rise for about 1 hour.

8. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up.

9. Bake the Bread: Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Gently flip the risen dough into the pot (or you can use parchment paper for ease). Cover and bake for 30-40 minutes until the crust is deep brown.

10. Cool Down: Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack. Allow it to cool for at least an hour before slicing.

By following these steps, you will bake a delicious Chocolate Cherry Sourdough Bread that is sure to impress!