This bread machine recipe brings ancient einkorn flour into modern kitchens with minimal effort. The hands-free method preserves the grain’s natural sweetness while delivering a tender, slightly dense crumb.
I’ve tested multiple liquid ratios to account for einkorn’s unique absorption, ensuring consistent results. The bread machine handles the mixing, rising, and baking, so you get artisanal quality without the labor.
The finished loaf has a golden crust and a soft interior with a subtle nutty flavor. It slices beautifully for sandwiches or toast and stays fresh longer than most whole-grain breads.
No kneading, no shaping—just measure, load, and let the machine do the work.
Ingredients for Einkorn Bread Recipe Bread Machine
Ancient grain meets modern convenience with these carefully measured ingredients for your bread machine.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Einkorn Flour 🌾 | 3 ½ cups | All-purpose einkorn, sifted |
| Warm Water 💧 | 1 ¼ cups | 110°F, precise temperature critical |
| Sea Salt 🧂 | 1 ½ tsp | Fine grain for even distribution |
| Raw Honey 🍯 | 2 tbsp | Or maple syrup for sweetness |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 🫒 | 2 tbsp | High-quality for richness |
| Active Dry Yeast 🍞 | 2 ¼ tsp | Instant yeast works too |
| Vital Wheat Gluten 🌾 | 2 tbsp | Optional for structure boost |
| Whole Milk 🥛 | ¼ cup | Warmed, enhances tenderness |
| Large Egg 🥚 | 1 whole | Room temperature, optional |
| Apple Cider Vinegar 🍏 | 1 tsp | Balances sweetness |
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Einkorn flour is the foundation here. Jovial or Young Living brands offer consistent quality with the authentic ancient grain profile. Seek out 100% einkorn—some blends dilute the unique properties. The yeast must be fresh; test it in the warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding (if it doesn’t bubble within 5 minutes, it’s dead). King Arthur carries reliable einkorn, or order online for bulk savings.
No honey? Maple syrup or agave at equal amounts. Skip the egg if needed—the loaf will be slightly denser but still serviceable. Vital wheat gluten can be omitted, though it helps counteract einkorn’s lower gluten content. For a vegan version, replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk and skip the egg entirely. The olive oil is flexible—avocado oil works too, but may alter flavor subtly.
Store einkorn flour in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 6 months to preserve freshness. The baked loaf keeps at room temperature for 4-5 days or freezes beautifully for 3 months. Slice before freezing for easy toast portions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set and Forget: I dump the ingredients in the machine at night and wake up to warm, fresh bread—no kneading, no fuss.
- Nutty Sweetness: The einkorn flour and raw honey give it this rich, almost caramel-like depth that store-bought can’t touch.
- Sandwich Hero: Honestly, it’s my go-to for everything from avocado toast to hearty lunchmeat stacks.
- Budget Stretcher: One batch makes two loaves, and the ingredients are pantry staples I already keep on hand.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Einkorn Bread Machine Loaf
This method ensures consistent texture and rise with precise timing and temperature control.
Step 1: Prepare the Liquid Ingredients
Begin by warming the whole milk and warm water to precisely 110°F. This temperature activates the active dry yeast without killing it. I use a digital thermometer for accuracy—even a few degrees off can affect the rise.
In the bread machine pan, add the 1.25 cups warm water, 0.25 cup whole milk, 2 tbsp raw honey, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, and the large egg. Whisk lightly to combine. The vinegar balances the honey’s sweetness while the egg adds richness and structure.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients and Yeast
Next, layer the dry ingredients carefully to prevent premature yeast activation. Add the 3.5 cups Einkorn Flour, 2 tbsp vital wheat gluten, and 1.5 tsp sea salt on top of the liquids, forming a small mound. The vital wheat gluten compensates for einkorn’s lower gluten content, ensuring a proper rise.
Create a small well in the center of the flour mixture and add the 2.25 tsp active dry yeast. This separation ensures the yeast doesn’t contact the liquids until the machine begins mixing. Uneven activation can lead to dense or collapsed loaves.
Step 3: Select and Start the Bread Machine Cycle
Insert the pan into the bread machine and secure the lid. Select the “Basic” or “White Bread” cycle with a medium crust setting and a 1.5-pound loaf size. This setting provides the ideal balance of kneading, rising, and baking times for einkorn flour.
Press start and allow the machine to complete the full cycle, which typically takes 3 to 4 hours. Resist the urge to open the lid during the initial mixing and kneading phases—interruptions can disrupt the gluten development.
Step 4: Monitor the Rise and Bake
About 30 minutes into the cycle, check that the dough has formed a smooth, elastic ball. Einkorn dough will appear slightly stickier than conventional wheat dough due to its unique protein structure. If the dough looks too wet, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of additional flour; if too dry, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of warm water.
During the final bake phase, the loaf should rise to nearly double its size and develop a golden-brown crust. The bread machine’s internal sensor will automatically adjust the baking time, but most cycles conclude after 50 to 60 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Cool Before Slicing
Once the cycle completes, immediately remove the pan from the machine using oven mitts, as it will be extremely hot. Turn the loaf out onto a wire rack and let it cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. Cutting too soon traps steam inside, resulting in a gummy texture.
The finished loaf should have a tender, slightly dense crumb with a nutty, mildly sweet flavor characteristic of einkorn. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Pro Tips For Making Einkorn Bread Recipe Bread Machine
- Warm the Honey: Raw honey blends better into the dough when warmed slightly—I microwave it for 10-15 seconds to thin it out before mixing.
- Measure Flour Right: Einkorn flour is denser than regular flour, so spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off—scooping directly from the bag packs it down too much.
- Check the Dough Early: After 5 minutes in the bread machine, peek in and add a splash of water if the dough looks dry and crumbly—einkorn absorbs liquid differently.
- Use Olive Oil Last: Add the extra-virgin olive oil after the wet ingredients start mixing—this keeps it from pooling at the bottom and ensures even distribution.
Wine and Beer Pairings for This Dish
Italian White Wines
For a classic pairing, try a crisp Vermentino from Sardinia. Its citrus notes and mineral acidity complement the bread’s nutty sweetness beautifully. I love how it cleanses the palate between bites. 🍷
Rich Red Options
A light-bodied Chianti Classico works wonderfully with this ancient grain loaf. The bright acidity and cherry notes create a perfect balance with the bread’s subtle sweetness and dense texture.
Craft Beer Choices
An American wheat ale like Allagash White enhances the bread’s natural flavors. The citrus and coriander notes in the beer bring out the honey undertones. Avoid heavy IPAs—they’ll overpower the delicate crumb. 🍺
Sparkling Pairings
For brunch, serve with Prosecco—its effervescence cuts through the richness while highlighting the loaf’s tender texture. The bubbles also refresh your palate for the next slice.
Non-Alcoholic Options
A sparkling apple cider with hints of cinnamon mirrors the bread’s sweetness. Or try an iced hibiscus tea for a floral contrast that works especially well with toasted slices.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to adjust the settings for einkorn flour?
Use the Basic or White Bread cycle with a medium crust. Einkorn absorbs liquid differently, so avoid the Whole Wheat setting as it may overwork the dough.
Can I make this without vital wheat gluten?
Yes, but the loaf may be denser. The gluten helps counteract einkorn’s low elasticity. For best results, don’t skip it unless necessary.
Why did my loaf collapse after baking?
This often happens if the dough over-proofs. Check your yeast freshness and ensure your machine isn’t in a warm room. 110°F water is critical for proper activation.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or freeze sliced portions for up to 3 months. Toast frozen slices directly from the freezer.
Trained in classic French technique but raised on slow-cooked ribs and spicy rubs, she blends culinary skill with smoke and soul.
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