Austrian Kaisersemmel

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg white, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse salt for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

1. 1In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar, let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. 2In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. 3Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. 4Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
6. 6Punch down and divide into 8 equal pieces.
7. 7Shape each piece into a round ball, then flatten slightly.
8. 8Use a sharp knife to score a cross pattern on top of each roll.
9. 9Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
10. 10Preheat oven to 425°F.
11. 11Brush tops with beaten egg white and sprinkle with coarse salt if desired.
12. 12Bake for 15-20 minutes until deeply golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
13. 13Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.