Same Day Einkorn Sourdough Bread (Easy Beginner Recipe)
If you’ve been curious about baking with ancient grains, this same day einkorn sourdough bread recipe using fresh milled flour is one of the easiest ways to start. This beginner friendly method creates a soft, flavorful loaf in just one day without the long fermentation times most sourdough recipes require.
What is Einkorn Sourdough Bread?
Einkorn sourdough bread is a naturally fermented bread made with fresh milled einkorn flour, water, sourdough starter, and salt. Einkorn is an ancient grain that is easier to digest than modern wheat and creates a soft, flavorful loaf with a slightly nutty taste. Einkorn behaves differently than modern wheat, but once you understand it, it becomes one of the most rewarding grains to bake with. This recipe walks you through each step so you can get a beautiful loaf your very first time.
👉 You can watch the full step by step video here
👉For the full printable recipe and exact measurements, scroll down to the recipe card below.
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Can you make sourdough bread in one day?
Yes, you can make sourdough bread in one day using an active starter and a same day fermentation method. This einkorn sourdough recipe shortens the timeline while still developing flavor and structure, making it perfect for beginners. If you are new to baking with fresh flour, you may also love my fresh milled sandwich bread recipe
Ingredients
720 grams fresh milled einkorn flour
450 grams warm filtered water
220 grams active sourdough starter
15 grams sea salt
How to Make Einkorn Sourdough Bread
Step 1: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine your fresh milled einkorn flour, warm water mix and let it rest for 30 minutes. This is called an autolyse.
Step 2: Add Starter and Salt
Then add your sourdough starter and mix it in with the flour. Next, add your salt and mix until everything is fully incorporated. Einkorn dough will feel softer and stickier than regular wheat. That is normal.
Step 3: Stretch and Folds
Over the next 1 to 2 hours, perform 3 to 4 stretch and folds about every 20 to 30 minutes. This helps build structure without overworking the dough.
Step 4: Bulk Fermentation
Let the dough rest at room temperature until it looks slightly puffy and airy. Mine usually takes about 2 hours. It should rise some, probably about 50%, and you are looking for a puffy dome shape. Also, you should see bubbles visible along the sides of the bowl (if you are a beginner, use a glass bowl so you can see the bubbles and can tell if it has risen with a dome shape).
Step 5: Shape
Gently shape your dough into a round loaf. Try not to over handle it.
Step 6: Final Rise
Let the dough rest for a short final rise while your oven preheats.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in a preheated Dutch oven at 450 degrees. Bake covered first, then uncover to finish baking and develop a golden crust.
Internal Temperature Tip
Your einkorn sourdough is done when the internal temperature reaches about 205 to 210 degrees.
Why Use Fresh Milled Einkorn Flour
Einkorn is one of the oldest grains and has not been hybridized like modern wheat. Many people find it easier to digest, and it has a rich, slightly nutty flavor that makes your bread taste incredible.
Fresh milling your flour keeps all the nutrients intact and gives your bread better flavor and texture. You can also try something fun like my pink bread recipe using fresh milled flour
Beginner Tips for Success
Einkorn dough is softer than regular dough, do not add too much extra flour
Do not over ferment, it can break down quickly
Gentle handling is key for a good rise
Fresh milled flour absorbs differently, so trust the texture more than the exact timing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is einkorn flour good for sourdough bread?
Yes, einkorn flour works well for sourdough bread, especially when freshly milled. It has a weaker gluten structure than modern wheat, which creates a softer dough but results in a tender, flavorful loaf.
Why is einkorn easier to digest?
Einkorn is an ancient grain that has not been hybridized like modern wheat. Its gluten structure is different, and many people find it gentler on digestion when properly fermented.
Can beginners make einkorn sourdough bread?
Yes, einkorn sourdough is actually a great option for beginners when using a simple method. The key is gentle handling and not over fermenting the dough.
What is the internal temperature of sourdough bread when done?
Sourdough bread is fully baked when the internal temperature reaches 205 to 210 degrees.
What makes einkorn sourdough different?
Einkorn sourdough behaves differently than modern wheat because it has a weaker gluten structure. This means the dough is softer, more delicate, and benefits from gentle handling. When made with fresh milled einkorn flour, the flavor is richer and slightly nutty, creating a more wholesome and nourishing loaf.
Do you need a Dutch oven for sourdough?
A Dutch oven is helpful because it traps steam and creates a better crust, but you can still bake sourdough using other covered baking methods.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve struggled with sourdough in the past, this same day einkorn sourdough bread recipe is a great place to start. It is simple, nourishing, and gives you a beautiful loaf without complicated steps.
Once you get comfortable with einkorn, it can completely change the way you bake at home.
Happy Baking ~ Ashley 💛
