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Easy Einkorn Bread Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about baking bread from scratch, especially when the recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to rival artisan bakery loaves. This easy einkorn bread recipe is one of those wholesome recipes that quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen. With its slightly nutty flavor, soft crumb, and golden crust, einkorn bread feels rustic, cozy, and incredibly satisfying. Unlike modern wheat, einkorn is an ancient grain known for its rich nutritional profile and easier digestibility. Many home bakers love using einkorn flour because it creates bread with a tender texture and mild buttery taste. Whether you’re new to homemade bread baking or already enjoy making healthy bread recipes at home, this loaf is approachable and rewarding. This easy einkorn bread recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it ideal for everyday baking. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, soup pairings, or simply enjoying warm with butter. If you enjoy clean eating, whole foods, or traditional baking methods, einkorn bread fits beautifully into your lifestyle. You can even adapt it for dairy-free or lightly sweetened variations depending on your preferences. Once you smell this loaf baking in your oven, you’ll understand why so many people fall in love with homemade einkorn bread.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose einkorn flour
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water about 105°F to 110°F
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Optional Variations
  • Add 1 tablespoon flaxseed for extra fiber
  • Mix in sunflower seeds or oats for texture
  • Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a neutral flavor
  • Replace honey with coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free version
  • Add rosemary or thyme for a savory artisan-style einkorn loaf

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • 9x5-inch loaf pan
  • Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
  • Cooling rack
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional but helpful)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Activate the Yeast
  2. 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.
  3. Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients
  4. 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.
  5. Step 3: Knead the Dough
  6. 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.
  7. If using a stand mixer, knead on low speed for about 4 minutes using the dough hook attachment.
  8. Step 4: First Rise
  9. 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.
  10. For the best homemade einkorn bread texture, avoid overly hot rising environments since einkorn can ferment faster than regular flour.
  11. Step 5: Shape the Dough
  12. Punch the dough down gently and shape it into a loaf. Transfer it into a greased loaf pan or parchment-lined pan.
  13. Cover loosely and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
  14. Step 6: Bake the Bread
  15. 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.
  16. If you have a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 190°F.
  17. Step 7: Cool Before Slicing
  18. 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.