There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home, and today we have a delightful recipe that will transport you to a cozy bakery in the heart of Germany. Laugenbrötchen, also known as German pretzel rolls, are fluffy, chewy, and perfectly salty. With their golden-brown crust and soft interior, these bread rolls are an absolute delight to enjoy on their own or filled with your favorite sandwich fixings. Let’s dive into how you can recreate these delicious Laugenbrötchen in your own kitchen.
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 ½ cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ¼ cup baking soda
– Coarse sea salt, for topping
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a small round roll. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
6. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and carefully add the baking soda. Boil each roll in the water for about 30 seconds, flipping them halfway through. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the rolls back to the baking sheet.
7. Sprinkle the tops of the rolls with coarse sea salt for that authentic pretzel flavor.
8. Bake the Laugenbrötchen in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown.
9. Once out of the oven, let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these Laugenbrötchen warm with butter, jam, cheese, or your favorite sandwich fillings.
Whether you’re looking to impress your friends at a brunch gathering or simply want to elevate your everyday meals, these Laugenbrötchen are a must-try recipe. The combination of a crispy exterior and a tender crumb inside makes them a delightful treat for any time of day. So, roll up your sleeves, get baking, and savor the homemade goodness of these German pretzel rolls.
