If you're ready to start baking with Einkorn, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Because of its simpler genetic structure and weaker gluten, Einkorn does not behave the same way as modern hybridized wheat in baking. If you try to substitute it one-for-one in conventional recipes, you may find your loaves denser, your dough stickier, and your texture more delicate. But with a few adjustments, you can unlock Einkorn’s full potential and create delicious, nutrient-dense baked goods.

Freshly milled Einkorn flour, a little more course than all purpose flour.

Understanding Einkorn’s Unique Baking Properties

Unlike modern wheat, which has been bred for strong gluten development and high elasticity, Einkorn has a weaker gluten network. This means:

✅ Less rise – Einkorn bread won’t be as tall and airy as conventional wheat bread.
✅ More delicate texture – It can be more crumbly or “short,” similar to whole wheat flour.
✅ Sticky dough – Einkorn absorbs liquid differently, making the dough feel wetter and harder to handle.

But don’t worry—these challenges can be managed with the right techniques!

5 Essential Tips for Baking with Einkorn

1. Adjust Your Liquid & Mixing Method

Einkorn absorbs water more slowly than modern wheat, so it’s best to use less liquid than you would with all-purpose flour and mix gently to avoid overworking the dough. Overmixing can make Einkorn dough overly sticky and difficult to shape.

Try This: Start with about 10-15% less liquid than your usual wheat recipe and mix just until incorporated.

2. Don’t Expect a Big Rise

Because Einkorn’s gluten is weaker, it doesn’t trap air bubbles as well as modern wheat. Your bread will likely be denser and flatter. If you want a lighter texture, consider using Einkorn in flatbreads, muffins, cookies, and quick breads, which don’t rely on gluten structure for rise.

My first ever attempt at Einkorn sourdough!

Try This: Instead of traditional sandwich loaves, start with sourdough Einkorn bread, rustic boules, or focaccia, which are more forgiving.

3. Borrow Tricks from Gluten-Free Baking

Since Einkorn lacks the elasticity of modern wheat, we can look to gluten-free baking techniques to improve structure and texture. Adding natural binders can help Einkorn dough behave more like conventional wheat.

Helpful Additions:

Vitamin C powder (¼ tsp per loaf) – Strengthens gluten and improves rise.
Whole psyllium husk (1-2 tsp per cup of flour) – Helps with moisture retention and elasticity.
Xanthan gum (½ tsp per cup of flour) – Adds stretch and prevents crumbliness.

4. Use Preferments or Sourdough for Better Results

Fermenting Einkorn flour through sourdough or preferments makes it easier to digest and enhances its baking performance. A long fermentation process helps break down phytic acid, increasing nutrient availability and improving the dough’s structure.

Try This: Make Einkorn sourdough bread or let your pancake/waffle batter ferment overnight for better texture and digestibility.

5. Be Prepared for a More Crumbly Texture

Even with adjustments, Einkorn won’t behave exactly like conventional wheat. Expect cookies and cakes to have a more tender, delicate crumb, and bread to have a shorter, slightly more crumbly texture. This is just part of working with a more natural, unhybridized grain.

Best Recipes to Start With

If you’re new to Einkorn, start with recipes that don’t require strong gluten development. Some great beginner-friendly options include:

🥞 Einkorn Sourdough Waffles – Light, crispy, and flavorful. Perfect for slow fermentation!
🍞 Einkorn Sourdough Bread – A naturally fermented loaf with a rich, nutty taste.
🥖 Einkorn Focaccia – An easy, forgiving bread that doesn’t require a tall rise.
🍪 Einkorn Shortbread Cookies – The naturally delicate crumb of Einkorn makes them melt-in-your-mouth good.

Final Thoughts: Embracing Einkorn’s Uniqueness

Baking with Einkorn isn’t about trying to make it behave like modern wheat—it’s about embracing its unique qualities. The grain’s rich flavor, high nutrition, and digestibility make it well worth the adjustment period. With a few tweaks, you can enjoy wholesome, delicious baked goods that nourish your body the way bread was meant to.

Would you like a specific Einkorn recipe to try? Let me know in the comments! 🍞

How to Start Baking with Einkorn at Home