Kaiser Bread Recipe – Best Rolls for Sandwich Lovers

Want to master the perfect Kaiser bread recipe at home? Whether you’re craving classic sandwich rolls, hearty burger buns, or a bakery-style crusty bread, this is the only guide you need. In this easy, step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn how to make Kaiser bread that’s golden, crisp on the outside, and pillowy-soft inside—just like the ones at your favorite deli or European bakery.

Kaiser bread (also known as Vienna rolls, Kaiser rolls, or hard rolls) is a traditional Austrian bread roll known for its iconic star-patterned top and signature crust. Perfect for everything from sliders to gourmet sandwiches, these homemade Kaiser rolls not only taste better than store-bought—they’re fresher, more flavorful, and can be customized with toppings like sesame or poppy seeds.

Why You’ll Love This Kaiser Bread

Crusty outside, pillowy inside
Beginner-friendly method
Ready in just over 2 hours
Great for sandwiches, burgers, sliders
Freezer-friendly
Simple, pantry-staple ingredients
“Best way to make Kaiser bread at home? This recipe gets it right with every batch!”

Ingredients for Homemade Kaiser Bread

Let’s start with the essentials. These ingredients make 8 classic-sized Kaiser rolls.

What You’ll Need:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
• 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
• 1 egg white (for egg wash)
• Sesame or poppy seeds (optional topping)

Dietary Alternatives:

• For a gluten-free version: Use 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Vegan? Skip the egg wash and use non-dairy milk instead.

Essential ingredients for Kaiser bread include flour, yeast, water, and salt—everything else adds texture and flavor!

How to Make Kaiser Bread – Step by Step

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, stir the sugar into warm water. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Tip: If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired. Always check the date!

Step 2: Form the Dough

Add flour, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Kneading develops gluten—the secret to that classic chewy Kaiser texture.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Divide & Shape

Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a ball.

Shaping Options:

• With a Kaiser roll stamp: Press the stamp into the top of each dough ball.
• Without a stamp: Use a sharp knife to cut a 5-point star pattern.

Step 5: Second Rise

Place rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush each roll with egg white for shine. Sprinkle seeds if using.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown. Tap the bottom—if it sounds hollow, they’re done!

Step 8: Cool & Enjoy

Transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing or serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Kaiser Bread

• No stand mixer? Knead by hand—it’s a great arm workout!
• Make ahead: Freeze dough after first rise. Thaw, shape, rise, and bake later!
• Flavor twist: Add garlic powder or herbs to the dough for extra flair.
• Different texture? For a softer crust, cover the rolls with a clean towel as they cool.

Best Ways to Serve Kaiser Bread

Kaiser rolls are endlessly versatile. Here are some mouthwatering ways to enjoy them:

• Burger buns – Their sturdy shape holds up to juicy patties!
• Breakfast sandwiches – Stack with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
• Deli-style sandwiches – Fill with pastrami, turkey, or veggies.
• Soup sidekick – Dip into creamy tomato soup or beef stew.

The best way to serve Kaiser bread is warm and fresh with your favorite fillings or soups.

Nutritional Information for Kaiser Bread (per roll)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210 kcal
Carbohydrates	36g
Protein	6g
Fat	3g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	1g
Sodium	290mg

Low in sugar and cholesterol-free—Kaiser bread fits into most balanced diets.

Storage & Leftovers

How to Store:

• Room temp: Up to 2 days in a sealed bag.
• Refrigerate: Up to 5 days (toast before serving).
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• Oven: 350°F for 5–7 mins
• Toaster oven: 3–4 mins
• Microwave: 20–30 seconds (wrap in damp paper towel)

How long does Kaiser bread last in the fridge? Up to 5 days if stored properly.

FAQs – Kaiser rolls

Can I freeze Kaiser bread dough?

Yes! Freeze after the first rise. Thaw overnight, shape, proof, and bake as usual.

What can I use instead of a Kaiser roll stamp?

Use a sharp knife to cut a five-point star or try tying a string around the dough ball before rising.

Why didn’t my Kaiser rolls rise properly?

Check your yeast’s freshness, water temperature, and proofing time. Yeast is a living organism—handle it gently!

Is Kaiser bread the same as a hard roll?

Yes, they’re often used interchangeably. Kaiser rolls tend to have a decorative top and are slightly softer inside.

Related Recipes – You’ll Love These Too!

• Best Cottage Cheese Egg Bake – High-Protein Breakfast Recipe
• Crispy Veggie Bites Recipe – Easy, Healthy Snack Idea

If you love Kaiser bread, try our pretzel rolls or bagels next!

Conclusion

Now that you know exactly how to make the best Kaiser bread at home, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! With a crispy exterior, soft crumb, and versatile flavor, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser at any meal.

Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and tell us how it turned out!

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