Homemade Bread Rolls with Sesame Seeds Recipe

Create warm, fluffy, homemade bread rolls topped with sesame seeds using this simple and fulfilling recipe. These bread rolls are perfect for breakfast, as a side for your meals, or even as a snack throughout the day. This recipe guides you through making your own bread with ingredients typically found in your pantry, ensuring each roll is delightfully soft with a touch of sweetness and a crispy sesame-seeded top.

Ingredients:

  • Warm water: 100 ml
  • Warm milk: 200 ml
  • 1 large egg
  • Sugar: 1 tablespoon
  • Yeast: 1 tablespoon
  • Wheat flour: 450-500 grams (adjust as needed to achieve the right dough consistency)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Butter: 55 grams, softened
  • Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons (plus extra for greasing)
  • Sesame seeds: for topping

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and milk. This creates a perfect warm environment to activate the yeast.
    • Stir in the sugar and yeast. Add one large egg. Mix well until the sugar and yeast are completely dissolved.
    • Gradually add flour to the mixture while stirring continuously. Stop adding flour once you have a soft and slightly sticky dough.
    • Sprinkle salt over the dough and knead for 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten in the flour, making the bread light and airy.
    • Let the dough rest in the bowl for 15 minutes to rise slightly, making it easier to incorporate the fats.
  2. Incorporate Fats:
    • Mix in the softened butter and vegetable oil. Knead the dough again until these fats are fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and no longer sticky.
    • Grease a clean bowl with a bit of vegetable oil, place the dough inside, and cover with a kitchen towel. Let it stand in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until it doubles in size.
  3. Shape the Rolls:
    • Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air bubbles.
    • Divide the dough into 9 equal parts. Let them rest for 15 minutes.
    • Roll out each piece into a flatbread shape and make small decorative cuts on the surface if desired.
  4. Final Rise and Prep for Baking:
    • Arrange the shaped dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
    • Let the dough rest for another 20 minutes to rise slightly.
    • Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  5. Bake the Bread Rolls:
    • Beat an egg and brush it over the surface of each dough piece to give a glossy finish after baking.
    • Generously sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each roll.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  6. Cool and Serve:
    • Remove the bread rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Dough Handling Tips:

  • Proofing the Dough: The proofing (or rising) times mentioned in the recipe are approximate. The actual time can vary depending on the temperature and humidity of your environment. In colder weather, the dough may take longer to rise. Consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off after preheating for a minute) to create a more consistent and warm environment.
  • Kneading: Proper kneading is crucial for developing the gluten in the dough, which gives the bread its structure and texture. If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can make the rolls dense and heavy.

Flavor Variations:

  • Adding Herbs and Spices: You can easily customize these rolls by adding herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough for an aromatic flavor. Garlic powder or onion powder can also be added for additional taste.
  • Cheese Rolls: For cheesy bread rolls, add grated cheese such as cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella into the dough or on top of the rolls before baking. Cheese adds a delicious flavor and can make the rolls even more appealing.

Creative Toppings and Glazes:

  • Egg Wash Alternatives: Instead of an egg wash, you can brush the rolls with milk or cream to achieve a golden color. For a vegan option, a light brushing with olive oil or almond milk can work as well.
  • Seeds and Nuts: Apart from sesame seeds, consider topping the rolls with poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and nutrition.

Serving and Pairing:

  • Breakfast or Brunch: Serve these rolls warm with butter, jams, or a drizzle of honey for a sweet touch. They’re also perfect for a hearty breakfast sandwich filled with eggs and bacon.
  • Soups and Stews: These bread rolls are excellent for dipping into soups and stews. Serve them alongside your favorite comfort foods like chicken soup, beef stew, or a vegetable chowder.

Storing and Reheating:

  • Storing Leftovers: These bread rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep them longer, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to a month.
  • Reheating: To restore the freshness and warmth of the rolls, reheat them in an oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes or until they’re heated through. If they have been frozen, let them thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Insights:

  • Whole Grains: For an even healthier option, consider using part whole wheat flour in your dough. Whole grains add fiber and other nutrients that enhance the nutritional profile of your bread.
  • Low Sodium: You can reduce the amount of salt in the recipe if you’re watching your sodium intake. This adjustment doesn’t significantly affect the rising process but will slightly alter the flavor.

Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home with this easy and rewarding recipe. These bread rolls are sure to become a favorite, bringing the warmth and comfort of homemade baking to your table.