Authentic German Vollkornbrötchen (Whole Grain Rolls) Recipe

Ingredients

500 grams of whole grain flour
1 packet of dry yeast (about 7 grams)
1 tablespoon of sugar
2 teaspoons of salt
300 milliliters of warm water
2 tablespoons of sunflower seeds
2 tablespoons of flax seeds
2 tablespoons of sesame seeds

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the whole grain flour, dry yeast, sugar, and salt.
Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients while stirring until a dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 392 degrees Fahrenheit).
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal parts. Shape each part into a round roll.
Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the tops with the sunflower seeds, flax seeds, and sesame seeds.
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ingredients and knead the dough.
Measuring Cups - To measure the flour, sugar, and water accurately.
Measuring Spoons - For precise measurement of yeast, salt, and other small quantities.
Whisk - To mix the dry ingredients evenly before adding the liquids.
Dough Scraper - Useful for scraping the dough off the bowl and working surface.
Baking Sheet - A flat, oven-safe sheet to place the rolls on for baking.
Parchment Paper - Prevents the rolls from sticking to the baking sheet.
Wire Rack - Used to cool the baked rolls evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Recipe variations

Replace the whole grain flour with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
Add different types of seeds or nuts like pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, or chopped almonds for added flavor and texture.
Include dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots for a hint of sweetness.
Experiment with different spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to enhance the flavor of the bread.
For a crispy crust, brush the rolls with an egg wash before baking.
Make a savory version by adding grated cheese, chopped herbs, or diced onions and garlic to the dough.
To make it vegan, substitute the honey in the dough with maple syrup or agave nectar.
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of whole grain flour.
For a meat-free option, serve the rolls with vegetarian or vegan spreads, such as hummus or avocado spread.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the wholesome goodness of homemade Vollkornbrötchen - a classic German whole grain roll. These hearty rolls are a staple in German bakeries and make a perfect addition to any meal, whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Made with whole grain flour and a mix of seeds, these rolls are not only delicious but also packed with fiber and nutrition. This recipe will guide you through the process of making the dough, letting it rise, shaping the rolls, and baking them to golden-brown perfection. Expect a little bit of hands-on time and some waiting for the yeast to work its magic, but the end result is well worth the wait. Enjoy the fresh, homemade Vollkornbrötchen with butter, jam, cheese, or any of your favorite spreads.

Common questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole grain flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for whole grain flour if you prefer a lighter texture. However, keep in mind that whole grain flour adds more nutrition and fiber to the brötchen.
What can I use instead of dry yeast? If you don't have dry yeast, you can use an equal amount of fresh yeast. Simply crumble the fresh yeast and mix it with a small amount of warm water and sugar before adding it to the dough.
Can I add other types of seeds to the brötchen? Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding other seeds like pumpkin seeds, poppy seeds, or chia seeds to enhance the flavor and texture.
How do I store the brötchen? Once completely cooled, store the brötchen in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them and thaw when needed.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to make more brötchen. Just make sure to adjust the rising time accordingly and use a larger bowl for kneading.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients and knead the dough.
Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used to place the dough rolls on for baking.
Parchment Paper - Used to line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Damp Cloth - To cover the dough and keep it moist while it rises.
Wire Rack - Used for cooling the baked rolls.

Origin stories

Vollkornbrötchen, or whole grain rolls, are a staple in German bakeries and households. They truly encompass the German love for hearty, nutritious bread. Interestingly, in Germany, there exists a Bread Institute that lists around 3,200 different kinds of bread, and this variety of rolls surely contributes to that impressive tally. The German tradition of Abendbrot, or "evening bread", often features these rolls served alongside a selection of meats, cheeses, and pickles. It's not just about the bread, it's about the ritual—the coming together at the end of the day, the preparation and the enjoyment of simple, wholesome fare. So, when you're making your homemade Vollkornbrötchen, remember that you're not just baking bread, you're partaking in a rich and flavourful German tradition.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.