Danish Rugbrød
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Web Recipe

Danish Rugbrød

Kevin R. Fuller

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dark rye flour (stone-ground works best)
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • ½ cup rolled oats
  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds
  • 2 tbsp molasses
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for greasing

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the dark rye flour, whole wheat flour, rolled oats, sunflower seeds, and salt, mixing thoroughly.
  2. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the molasses in the warm water, then sprinkle the yeast over the top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky, thick dough forms.
  4. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with vegetable oil.
  5. Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, pressing it down firmly with wet hands to smooth the top.
  6. Cover loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for 1-2 hours until nearly doubled.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F while the dough rises.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes until the top is dark brown and firm, and a skewer comes out clean.
  9. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Notes

Dense and slightly moist with a robust rye flavor and hint of sweetness from the molasses. Serve topped with smoked salmon, creamy cheese, or pickled herring for traditional Danish smørrebrød.