Classic Kaiser Rolls

Image for recipe: Classic Kaiser Rolls
Yeast Breads

Ingredients: 9

Elevate your baking skills with these classic kaiser rolls. Impress your guests with the perfect blend of crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. These rolls are a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients
2 tablespoons dry yeast
2 1⁄2 cups warm water (105-115°F or 40-46°C)
2 tablespoons Crisco
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
6-7 cups all-purpose flour
3 egg whites
1 egg white, beaten with cold milk for egg wash
caraway seeds or sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  • Preparation

    1. Beat egg whites until stiff.
    2. Set aside.
    3. Combine yeast and warm water, and let sit for approximately 5 minutes.
    4. Add shortening, sugar, salt, and 3 cups of the flour. Beat with a dough whisk or heavy spoon for 2 minutes.
    5. Fold the stiff egg whites into the yeast mixture.
    6. Gradually add flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until the dough comes together and begins to pull away from the bowl.
    7. Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth, pliable, and has bubbles.
    8. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turn to coat, and cover with a damp towel. Let it rise until it doubles in size, approximately 1 hour.
    9. Punch down the dough, cover, and let it rise again until doubled, about 45 minutes. Punch down and turn out onto a lightly oiled surface.
    10. Divide the dough into 18 equal pieces. Use a rolling pin to flatten each piece into a 7-inch circle.
    11. Fold the left side to the center to form a flap, then repeat with the remaining sides to create overlapping flaps. Press the center to seal the dough.
    12. Place the rolls upside down on a well-greased baking sheet, 3 inches apart to maintain their shape. Let the rolls rise for 30 minutes, then turn them right side up and let them rise for an additional 15 minutes.

  • Baking and Finishing

    1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a shallow pan on the bottom shelf of the oven.
    2. Lightly brush the rolls with the egg wash and sprinkle with caraway or sesame seeds, if desired.
    3. Place 1 cup of ice cubes in the heated pan in the oven.
    4. Immediately put the rolls in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown (internal temperature will read 190°F/88°C).
    5. Remove the rolls from the oven and cool them on racks before serving.

Aug 01, 2024