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Air Fryer Sourdough Bread for Beginners

Air Fryer Sourdough Bread Recipe: A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Perfectly Crispy & Soft Loaf


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 3 hours (including rising time)
  • Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Air Fryer Sourdough Bread is an easy-to-make version of the classic sourdough loaf that utilizes an air fryer instead of a traditional oven. The air fryer circulates hot air around the dough, baking it to perfection with a crispy, golden crust and soft, fluffy interior. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity — no need for complicated oven settings or hours of rising. It’s a great option for beginner bakers or anyone who enjoys the unique flavor of sourdough but doesn’t want the long wait time or extra steps involved in traditional baking.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients (Makes 1 small loaf)

  • 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)

  • 1 cup warm water (about 80–85°F / 27–29°C)

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for chewier texture)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp sugar (optional, helps with browning)

  • Optional: 1 tsp olive oil (for softer crust)


Instructions

1. Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar (if using).
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Dough will be slightly tacky.

2. First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap.
Let rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or until doubled in size.
(For a slower, tangier flavor, you can refrigerate overnight.)

3. Shape the Loaf

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
Shape into a small round or oval loaf that fits your air fryer basket (about 6–7 inches in diameter).
Let it rest for 20–30 minutes while the air fryer preheats.

4. Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Line basket with parchment paper or lightly grease.

5. Score the Bread

Use a sharp knife or razor to make 1–2 shallow slashes on top of the dough.
This allows the bread to expand evenly.

6. Air Fry the Bread

Place dough in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Optional: Spray a few mists of water into the basket before closing to help develop a crusty exterior.

7. Cool

Remove bread and let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Cooling ensures the interior sets and avoids a gummy crumb.

Notes

This Air Fryer Sourdough Bread for Beginners makes baking homemade sourdough simple and fuss-free! Enjoy a crisp crust and soft, airy interior without using a traditional oven. Perfect for toast, sandwiches, or dipping in soups—experiment with seeds or herbs for added flavor.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 180

Keywords: Air fryer sourdough, easy sourdough bread, crispy sourdough loaf, beginner sourdough recipe, homemade sourdough air fryer