German Bread
German Bread is a hearty, flavorful loaf featuring anise seeds that lend a subtle licorice aroma. Perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or a snack, its crusty exterior and soft interior appeal to bread lovers seeking a traditional European treat with a hint of sweetness and aromatic spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set aside yeast, 1 teaspoon sugar, and warm water to activate the yeast.
- Heat milk with salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar until warm.
- Add the heated milk mixture, eggs, and yeast mixture to 3 cups of flour and mix well.
- Gradually add the remaining flour and anise seed, mixing by hand to form a stiff dough.
- Knead the dough until smooth, then let it rise before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole wheat flour in place of some of the all-purpose flour. If you want a sweeter bread, increase the sugar slightly. Ensure your milk is warm but not boiling to avoid killing the yeast. Let the dough rise in a warm place, which helps activate the yeast more effectively. If you have any leftovers, they can be used to make delicious Tuna Pate Pyramids.
Serving Suggestions
This German bread is perfect for breakfast or as a side for soups and stews. Serve it warm with butter or jam for a delightful treat. It also pairs beautifully with Sour Cream Yeast Dough for a unique brunch spread. Consider slicing it and serving with a selection of cheeses for a charming appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover German bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or wrap the whole loaf in foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Bread contains roughly 1202 calories, with 28g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (178% of the Daily Value), iron (120% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1220mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, and you won't need to activate it beforehand. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients. This can save time and simplify the process.
What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to inactive yeast or a cold environment. Make sure your yeast is fresh and try placing the dough in a warmer area, like an oven with the light on. If all else fails, you can knead in a bit more yeast and let it rise again.
How can I enhance the flavor of my bread?
To enhance the flavor of your German bread, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even grated cheese for a savory twist. You can also experiment with different types of milk or add nuts for extra texture and taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).