Vienna Bread
Vienna Bread boasts a crisp crust and soft, airy interior with a rich, slightly tangy flavor. Its golden crust and tender crumb make it perfect for sandwiches, breakfast, or as a side. Suitable for bread lovers seeking a traditional, homemade loaf with authentic European flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine lukewarm water, sugar, and dry yeast in a bowl.
- Let stand for 15 minutes until foamy.
- Add salt and oil; mix well.
- Gradually add flour, mixing as you go.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and let rise until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and let rise again.
- Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces.
- Let the pieces rise for 15 minutes.
- Shape each piece into a long loaf and place on greased cookie sheets sprinkled with cornmeal.
- Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of honey in place of some sugar. If you don't have dry yeast, you can use active dry yeast by activating it in warm water first. Knead the dough well to develop gluten, which helps achieve a light and airy texture. For a more artisanal crust, try adding a shallow pan of water to the oven while baking.
Serving Suggestions
Vienna bread is delightful on its own or served with butter and jam. It pairs beautifully with a hearty soup or salad, such as a refreshing Salad Dressing For Spinach Salad. For a more substantial meal, consider using it for sandwiches or alongside a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Vienna bread in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the loaves by wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil or freezer bags. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vienna Bread contains roughly 185 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 916mg per serving (40% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for some of the all-purpose flour, but be aware that whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Start by using 2-3 cups of whole wheat flour and adjust the water accordingly to keep the dough manageable.
What should I do if my dough isn't rising?
If your dough isn't rising, check the temperature of your environment. Yeast thrives in warm conditions, so ensure the dough is in a warm, draft-free area. If your yeast was old or not activated properly, consider starting with fresh yeast for the best results.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme can enhance the flavor of the bread. Typically, 1-2 tablespoons of dried herbs mixed into the flour will infuse the dough with a lovely aroma. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices.
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).