Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, honey, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help your bread rise beautifully.
- Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients

- Add the olive oil, salt, and einkorn flour to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Einkorn dough behaves differently than regular wheat dough, so don’t worry if it feels slightly sticky.
- Step 3: Knead the Dough

- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes. Avoid adding too much extra flour because einkorn flour absorbs moisture differently than modern wheat flour. The dough should remain soft and slightly tacky.
- If using a stand mixer, knead on low speed for about 4 minutes using the dough hook attachment.
- Step 4: First Rise
- Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 60 to 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- For the best homemade einkorn bread texture, avoid overly hot rising environments since einkorn can ferment faster than regular flour.
- Step 5: Shape the Dough
- Punch the dough down gently and shape it into a loaf. Transfer it into a greased loaf pan or parchment-lined pan.
- Cover loosely and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Step 6: Bake the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the loaf for 32 to 38 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F.
- Step 7: Cool Before Slicing
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Slicing too early may cause the bread to become gummy inside.
Notes
Making einkorn bread becomes easier once you understand how this ancient grain behaves. These practical tips can help you bake the perfect loaf every time.
Don’t Over-Knead
Einkorn gluten is more delicate than modern wheat. Excessive kneading can make the dough sticky and difficult to handle.
Keep the Dough Slightly Sticky
A common mistake is adding too much flour. Einkorn dough should feel softer than traditional bread dough.
Use Warm, Not Hot Water
Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast. Aim for water around 105°F to 110°F.
Let the Bread Cool Fully
Fresh bread smells irresistible, but slicing too soon may ruin the texture. Cooling allows the crumb to set properly.
Store Properly
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Homemade einkorn bread stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature.
