German Rolls(Zwiebacks)
German Zwiebacks are crispy, hearty rolls with a slightly sweet and savory flavor, perfect for breakfast or snacks. Their crunchy texture and rich taste make them ideal for pairing with butter, jam, or cheese. Suitable for bread lovers seeking a traditional, satisfying baked treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water and let it activate.
- Add sugar to the yeast mixture and stir well.
- Mix the yeast-sugar mixture with flour, bacon grease, and warm milk, stirring until combined.
- Knead the dough until it becomes stiff and elastic.
- Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a cookie sheet.
- Squeeze off lumps of dough and place them on the greased sheet, stacking one on top of another as you go.
- Space the dough lumps about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your water is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. If you don't have bacon grease, unsalted butter or vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. Knead the dough thoroughly to develop the gluten, which gives the rolls their structure. Allowing the dough to rise in a warm area will help it double in size more effectively.
Serving Suggestions
These German rolls are delicious served warm with butter or alongside soups and stews. They pair beautifully with Eleanor Nabak'S German Potato Salad for a complete meal. For a hearty breakfast, enjoy them with scrambled eggs or as a base for breakfast sandwiches. A side of Easy And Good Brussels Sprouts complements their rich flavor nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover German rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the rolls in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Rolls(Zwiebacks) contains roughly 942 calories, with 18g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in water first. The rolls may rise a bit faster, so keep an eye on them during the rising process.
What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?
You can incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough for added flavor. Additionally, try adding a cup of grated cheese or cooked bacon bits for a savory twist. Just be mindful to adjust the flour if you add moist ingredients.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean if the rolls are fully baked.
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).