Kaiser Rolls
Kaiser Rolls are the ultimate soft and delicious treat that will elevate any meal! Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy roll with a golden crust, perfect for sandwiches or simply slathered with butter. This homemade recipe combines simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and a hint of honey for sweetness, creating a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. With a playful twist, we’ll guide you through shaping these iconic rolls, ensuring they rise to perfection. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible Kaiser Rolls that are sure to become a beloved staple in your home!

Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy-to-follow steps for a fun baking experience.
- Perfect for sandwiches or as a side with soups.
- Customizable toppings to suit your taste.
- Homemade goodness that beats store-bought any day!

Kaiser Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of instant yeast, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 ½ cups of warm water, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.
- Pour in the warm water and vegetable oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough gently. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
- While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter, make a cross or a star pattern on the top of each roll.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and sounding hollow when tapped.
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy your homemade Kaiser Rolls warm or toasted!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category: | Bread |
Cuisine: | German |
Prep Time: | 30 minutes |
Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
Total Time: | 50 minutes |
Dietary: | Vegetarian |
Serves: | 12 rolls |
Best Served: | With sandwiches or as a side |
Ingredients

- All-purpose flour – a key ingredient for structure and texture.
- Instant yeast – helps the rolls rise quickly and easily.
- Warm water – activates the yeast for a perfect rise.
- Granulated sugar – adds a touch of sweetness and feeds the yeast.
- Salt – enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and a soft texture.
- Eggs – contribute to the dough’s richness and help with binding.
- Milk – adds moisture and a tender crumb.
- Sesame seeds – optional topping for added flavor and crunch.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Kaiser Rolls

Get ready to bake some delightful Kaiser Rolls! Follow these steps for a soft and delicious treat.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of instant yeast, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 ½ cups of warm water, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the warm water and vegetable oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough gently. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
Step 8: Preheat the Oven
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 9: Create the Kaiser Roll Pattern
Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter, make a cross or a star pattern on the top of each roll.
Step 10: Bake the Rolls
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and sounding hollow when tapped.
Step 11: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy your homemade Kaiser Rolls warm or toasted!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

- Use bread flour for a chewier texture and better rise.
- Let the dough rest for at least an hour to develop flavor.
- For a shiny crust, brush the rolls with an egg wash before baking.
- Steam the oven during baking for a crusty exterior.
- Cool completely on a wire rack to maintain softness.
How to Serve
Enjoy your homemade Kaiser Rolls with these delightful serving suggestions:

- Slather with creamy butter and a sprinkle of sea salt for a simple treat.
- Fill with your favorite deli meats and cheeses for a satisfying sandwich.
- Top with fresh veggies and hummus for a healthy snack.
- Use as a base for mini sliders with grilled chicken or veggie patties.
- Pair with a warm bowl of soup for a comforting meal.
- Toast and spread with avocado and a dash of lemon for a trendy breakfast.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light and delicious lunch.
- Make a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and cheese for a hearty start to your day.
- Slice and use for bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil for a tasty appetizer.
- Enjoy with a side of homemade dips like tzatziki or spinach-artichoke for a fun snack.
Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers
To keep your Kaiser Rolls fresh:
- Allow rolls to cool completely.
- Wrap each roll in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped rolls in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing
To freeze your Kaiser Rolls effectively:
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag.
- Label with the date for reference.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
For the best texture and taste when reheating:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove rolls from packaging and place on a baking sheet.
- Cover with foil to retain moisture.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- For a crusty exterior, remove foil for the last 5 minutes.
FAQs
What are Kaiser Rolls?
Kaiser rolls are soft, round bread rolls with a distinctive crust and a light, airy interior. They are often used for sandwiches or served alongside soups and salads, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the rolls may be denser, so you might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
How do I store leftover Kaiser Rolls?
To store leftover Kaiser rolls, place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months.
Can I make Kaiser Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Just shape the rolls and let them rise before baking the next day for fresh, homemade rolls.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your very own homemade Kaiser Rolls! Just imagine the warm, fluffy goodness fresh out of the oven, perfect for sandwiches or simply slathered with butter. It’s a simple recipe that brings joy and nostalgia to your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delightful process. You’ll be amazed at how rewarding it is to share these delicious rolls with family and friends!
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