Classic Artisan Sourdough Loaf (Bread Machine Version)
This beginner-friendly sourdough recipe is adapted for a bread machine, making it even easier to achieve a rustic, flavorful loaf with minimal hands-on effort. Using Early Bird Farm & Mill's Sourdough Bread Blend, this recipe delivers a crisp crust and chewy crumb with the convenience of automatic mixing and baking.
Equipment
- Bread Machine
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet (if baking in the oven)
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups Early Bird Farm & Mill Sourdough Bread Blend Feature ingredient
- 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water Warm to 110°F for best yeast activation
- 1/4 cup active sourdough starter Should be bubbly and active
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- If your starter is not active, feed it by combining 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup water, and 1/2 cup starter. Mix and let sit at room temperature for 4-6 hours until bubbly.
- In the order recommended by your bread machine manufacturer, add the lukewarm water, sourdough starter, Sourdough Bread Blend, and salt into the bread pan.
- Set your bread machine to the "Dough" cycle. Let the machine mix and knead the dough. Once the cycle is complete (typically 1.5 to 2 hours), check if the dough has doubled in size.
- Remove the dough from the bread machine, shape it into a round or oval loaf, and place it on a parchment-lined surface. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours until puffy.
- For a fully machine-baked loaf, return the dough to the bread pan and select the "Bake" setting, allowing the machine to bake the bread.
- For a crispier crust, preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the risen dough on a baking sheet or in a Dutch oven. Score the top and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the bread from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
Notes
For a more robust sourdough flavor, extend the second rise time before baking. Store the bread in a paper bag or bread box for the best texture.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!