Go Back
Rustic sourdough bread machine recipe loaf on a cooling rack

Rustic & Crispy Sourdough Bread Machine Recipe

A hands-off method to get authentic, bakery-style sourdough using your bread machine. No kneading required, just a crispy crust and soft crumb.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Breakfast, Lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 12 slices
Calories 160 kcal

Equipment

  • Bread Machine
  • Kitchen Scale
  • Wire Cooling Rack

Ingredients
  

The Liquids

  • 0.75 cup water filtered, room temperature (~175ml)
  • 1 tbsp oil olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 cup active sourdough starter fed 4-8 hours prior (~220g)

The Dry Ingredients

  • 3 cups bread flour (~360g)
  • 1 tbsp sugar or honey (optional)
  • 1.5 tsp fine sea salt

Instructions
 

  • Phase 1: The Setup
    Pour the room-temperature water, oil, and your active sourdough starter into the bread pan.
  • Gently spoon the bread flour on top of the liquid layer. You want the flour to float on top.
  • Make a small indentation in the flour for the sugar (if using). Place the salt in a corner of the pan on top of the flour. Tip: Do not let salt touch the wet starter.
  • Phase 2: The Cycle Selection
    Select the "Artisan" or "Sourdough" setting if available. If not, use the standard "White Bread" or "Basic" cycle.
  • Set the Crust Color to "Dark" and the Loaf Size to 1.5 lb or 2 lb.
  • Optional Expert Step: For a more sour flavor, run the "Dough" cycle first, turn off the machine for 2-3 hours, then select "Bake Only".
  • Phase 3: The Check and Bake
    About 5–10 minutes into the kneading, check the dough. It should be a tacky ball. If too wet, add 1 tbsp flour; if dry, add 1 tsp water.
  • Optional: Remove the paddle before the final rise to avoid a hole in the bottom of the loaf.
  • Once baked, remove immediately to a wire rack. Wait at least 60 minutes before slicing to prevent gumminess.

Notes

Storage: Keep in a paper bag or bread box for up to 2 days. Freeze sliced for longer storage.
Starter Tip: Ensure your starter is bubbly and active, not cold discard.
Measurements: Weighing ingredients (grams) is highly recommended for accuracy.
Keyword bread machine sourdough, easy sourdough, sourdough bread machine recipe