Do I need a gluten free setting on my bread maker?
It helps, but it is not required. Use the gluten free cycle if you have it. If not, choose a cycle with one main rise and a shorter bake, often labeled Quick or Rapid. (Cycles vary by model, so your best “backup” option might be slightly different.) Avoid cycles with long kneading and multiple rises.
Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
Common causes are too much liquid, over-proofing from a very warm kitchen, or too much yeast. Start by weighing flour, and use water that is warm, not hot, around 100°F to 110°F. Also, scrape down the corners after the first mix so the structure is even.
Why is my gluten free bread gummy?
Usually it is sliced too soon or underbaked. Cool completely before slicing. If your machine allows, choose a darker crust setting or add 5 to 10 minutes of bake time. Also, measure water carefully because extra liquid can leave a wet crumb.
Can I make this egg-free?
Eggs do a lot of the heavy lifting here for lift and structure. If you need egg-free, you can try replacing the 2 eggs with 1/2 cup aquafaba and adding 1 extra tablespoon psyllium husk. Depending on your flour blend and machine, you may also need to reduce water by 15 to 25 g and/or add a few extra minutes of bake time. Expect a slightly denser loaf.
What flour blend should I use?
Use a 1:1 gluten free baking flour that contains rice flour and starches. If your blend does not include xanthan gum, add it as listed. Different blends absorb water differently, so the batter should look like thick cake batter, not a firm dough ball.
Can I use psyllium powder instead of whole husk?
Yes, but it can behave a little differently. Psyllium powder tends to absorb faster and can thicken more than whole husk, depending on the brand and grind. If you use powder and the batter looks overly stiff during mixing, add water 1 tablespoon at a time. If you use whole husk and the batter looks loose, give it an extra minute to hydrate before adding more flour.
Can I add seeds or herbs?
Yes. Add up to 1/3 cup seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, sesame) or 1 to 2 teaspoons dried herbs. Add-ins go in after the initial mix if your machine has a mix-in beep, or sprinkle them in once the batter is combined.
