Name: Air Fryer Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 18 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 18 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup active sourdough starter; 1 3/4 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour); 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bakes up beautifully crisp in the air fryer with minimal effort.
Perfect for small loaves when you don’t want to heat the whole oven.
Classic sourdough flavor with a chewy texture and airy crumb.
Great for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter and jam.
A fun and efficient way to make artisan-style bread at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Active sourdough starter
Bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
Water
Salt

Directions

In a large bowl, mix active sourdough starter, water, and flour until combined. Let rest for 30 minutes (autolyse).
Add salt and knead until smooth.
Cover and let the dough rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours, stretching and folding the dough every 30–45 minutes during the first 2 hours.
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it in a floured proofing basket or bowl lined with a towel.
Cover and refrigerate for 8–12 hours for a slow rise.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Carefully transfer the dough onto parchment paper, score the top with a sharp knife, and place it in the air fryer basket.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 small loaf (about 6–8 slices). Prep and rising time is 12–18 hours, and air fryer baking takes 30 minutes.

Variations

Add seeds such as sesame, sunflower, or flax for texture.
Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
Replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.
Add olives, cheese, or garlic for a savory twist.
Shape into rolls instead of a loaf for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store sourdough bread wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat by toasting, or warm in the air fryer for a few minutes to refresh the crust.

FAQs

Can I bake sourdough bread in any air fryer?

Yes, as long as your air fryer basket is large enough to fit the loaf.

Do I still need to use a Dutch oven?

No, the air fryer mimics the steam and heat of a Dutch oven.

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, but bread flour gives a chewier texture.

How do I know if my starter is ready?

It should be bubbly, doubled in size, and pass the float test.

Why refrigerate the dough overnight?

Cold fermentation develops flavor and strengthens the dough.

Can I make sourdough rolls in the air fryer?

Yes, reduce the baking time to 12–15 minutes.

How do I prevent the bread from sticking?

Use parchment paper under the loaf in the air fryer basket.

Can I add steam to the air fryer?

It’s not necessary—the air fryer creates enough circulation for a crisp crust.

What if my loaf is browning too fast?

Cover the top loosely with foil halfway through baking.

How do I slice sourdough without crushing it?

Let the loaf cool completely and use a sharp serrated knife.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Sourdough Bread is a simple, efficient, and satisfying way to bake homemade bread without a traditional oven. With its crunchy crust, chewy crumb, and rich sourdough flavor, this small-batch loaf is perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. Once you try it, you’ll love how easy it is to enjoy fresh sourdough straight from the air fryer.