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Sourdough Bread Machine Recipe

Easy Sourdough Bread Machine Recipe (Beginner-Friendly)

A simple, beginner-friendly sourdough bread machine recipe made with active sourdough starter and no commercial yeast. This hands-off method delivers soft, flavorful sourdough with minimal effort—perfect for busy home bakers.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
1 hour
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Bread, Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup active sourdough starter 100% hydration, fed within 4–8 hours
  • ¾ cup water Filtered, room temperature
  • 3 cups bread flour
  • 1½ teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Optional, for softer crumb

Equipment

  • Bread Machine
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Kitchen Scale
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Feed your sourdough starter 4–8 hours before baking until it is bubbly, doubled in size, and smells mildly tangy.
Step 2:
  1. Add ingredients to the bread machine pan in this order: water, sourdough starter, olive oil (if using), flour, then salt. Keep salt away from liquids.
Step 3:
  1. Select the Basic or White Bread cycle, medium crust, and 1.5 lb loaf size (or closest setting). Avoid quick or rapid cycles.
Step 4:
  1. During the first 5–10 minutes of kneading, check the dough. It should form a soft, slightly tacky ball.
  2. If dry, add 1 tablespoon water.
  3. If wet, add 1 tablespoon flour.
Step 5:
  1. Allow the bread machine to complete the full cycle. Once finished, remove the loaf immediately.
Step 6:
  1. Cool the bread on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.

Notes

  • Do not use sourdough discard; active starter is required for proper rise.
  • Bread machine models vary—always monitor the first knead.
  • For more sour flavor, allow a slightly longer fermentation.
  • Bread slices freeze well for up to 3 months.