Easy Vegan Bread Recipes for Your Bread Maker

Making delicious vegan bread at home is easier than you think with a bread maker! Forget kneading and proofing by hand – simply add the ingredients, select the setting, and let your bread maker do the work. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these easy vegan bread recipes will have you baking beautiful, flavorful loaves in no time.

Why Use a Bread Maker for Vegan Bread?

Bread makers take the guesswork out of baking bread, especially for beginners. They control the temperature and timing, ensuring consistent results every time. This is especially helpful with vegan bread, as it sometimes requires a slightly different approach than traditional recipes.

Essential Ingredients for Vegan Bread in a Bread Maker

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s cover the key ingredients for making delicious vegan bread:

• Bread Flour: This high-protein flour creates structure and chewiness.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast or instant yeast are commonly used in bread makers.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar helps activate the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Salt: Salt enhances the flavor and controls the yeast activity.
• Vegan Milk: Use your favorite plant-based milk like soy milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
• Vegan Butter or Oil: Adds richness and tenderness to the bread.
• Optional Add-ins: Get creative with herbs, spices, seeds, or dried fruits.

Vegan bread ingredients arranged on a table

Classic Vegan White Bread

This recipe is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying a warm slice with vegan butter.

Yields: 1 loaf
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: Varies by bread maker (approximately 2-3 hours)

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (105°F-115°F)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce (optional, for a softer crumb)

Instructions:

1. Combine wet ingredients: In the bread maker pan, add the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, until the yeast is foamy.
2. Add dry ingredients: Add the bread flour and salt to the bread maker pan.
3. Add fat: Add the softened vegan butter and optional applesauce on top of the flour mixture.
4. Start the bread maker: Select the “Basic” or “White Loaf” setting and press start.
5. Check for doneness: Once the cycle is complete, check if the bread is cooked through by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
6. Cool and slice: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Perfectly golden brown vegan white bread baking in a bread maker

Hearty Vegan Wheat Bread

This recipe uses a combination of whole wheat flour and bread flour for a nuttier flavor and a denser texture.

Yields: 1 loaf
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: Varies by bread maker (approximately 2-3 hours)

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups warm water (105°F-115°F)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 cups bread flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Combine wet ingredients: In the bread maker pan, add the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, until the yeast is foamy.
2. Add dry ingredients: Add the bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt to the bread maker pan.
3. Add wet ingredients: Pour in the olive oil and maple syrup.
4. Start the bread maker: Select the “Whole Wheat” or similar setting and press start. If your bread maker doesn’t have a whole wheat setting, use the basic setting but check for doneness early.
5. Check for doneness: Once the cycle is complete, check if the bread is cooked through by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
6. Cool and slice: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Slices of vegan wheat bread on a wooden cutting board

Tips for Bread Maker Success

• Accurate measurements are crucial: Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for dry ingredients.
• Use high-quality yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh for best results.
• Don’t open the lid during the baking cycle: Opening the lid can affect the temperature and prevent the bread from rising properly.
• Experiment with add-ins: Once you feel comfortable with the basic recipes, feel free to add your favorite ingredients like seeds, nuts, dried fruits, or herbs.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?
You can experiment with other flours like spelt flour or gluten-free blends, but keep in mind that the results may vary.

Why is my bread dense and heavy?
Several factors could contribute to dense bread, such as using old yeast, not kneading the dough enough, or using too much flour.

Can I make vegan bread in a bread maker without sugar?
Yes, you can omit the sugar or use a sugar substitute like maple syrup or agave nectar.

How do I store my homemade vegan bread?
Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use this recipe to make vegan bread rolls?
Yes, you can use these recipes to make bread rolls. Simply adjust the baking time accordingly.