Karlsbad Bread

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Sweet Sourdough Bread with this irresistible recipe for Karlsbad Bread. These soft and fluffy buns, enriched with butter, sugar, and egg yolks, are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a delightful snack. The tangy notes of the wheat sourdough starter add a distinct character to the bread, making each bite a truly satisfying experience. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bake up a batch of approximately 30 buns that are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your baking essentials, and get ready to enjoy the aroma and taste of homemade Sweet Sourdough Bread!

Makes about 30 buns

INGREDIENTS:

• 1⅔ cups (400 ml) milk, room temperature
• 7 oz (200 g) wheat sourdough starter
• 9 cups (1 kg) wheat flour
• 3½ tbsp (30 g) fresh yeast
• 1 cup (250 g) butter
• 1 cup (200 g) sugar
• 6 egg yolks
• ½ tbsp (10 g) salt
• 1 egg for brushing

WHEAT SOURDOUGH STARTER:

• ¾ cup (200 ml) water, room temperature
• 2 cups (325 g) wheat flour or spelt flour, sifted
• ½ cup (100 g) grated apple, peeled

INSTRUCTIONS:

WHEAT SOURDOUGH STARTER:

1. Combine the ingredients and let stand for 2–4 days in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Stir in the mornings and evenings.
2. The starter is ready when the mixture starts to bubble. From this point on, all you have to do is “feed” the dough so that it retains its flavor and ability to ferment. If you leave the sourdough in the refrigerator, you should feed it once a week with ½ cup (100 ml) water and 1 cup (100 g) wheat flour. If you keep the sourdough at room temperature, it should be fed every day, in the same manner. The consistency should resemble thick porridge.
3. If you have sourdough left over, you can freeze it in containers that hold half a cup or leave a part of it to dry.

BREAD:

1. In a bowl, mix 1¼ cup (300 ml) of milk with the sourdough, half of the flour, and the yeast. Let it rise for about 1 hour.
2. Melt the butter and let it cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients, including the cooled melted butter. Knead the dough until smooth.
4. Shape the dough into thirty or so plain buns or crescents and place them on a greased baking sheet.
5. Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rise until they have doubled in size.
6. Preheat the oven to 400°F (210°C).
7. Brush the risen buns with the beaten egg.
8. Bake the buns in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Enjoy your Sweet Sourdough Bread buns!

As the aroma of freshly baked Sweet Sourdough Bread fills your kitchen, get ready to savor the results of your baking adventure. The golden-brown buns, with their soft texture and enticing flavors, are a testament to your skill and dedication. Whether enjoyed plain or with your favorite spreads, these Karlsbad Bread buns are a delightful treat for any occasion. So, gather your loved ones, share the joy of homemade bread, and let the Sweet Sourdough Bread bring warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Happy baking!