Bread Story
There's a reason these rolls have been a bakery favourite across Austria for generations. Recognisable by their distinctive five-point crown, Kaiser rolls are crisp on the outside, wonderfully light inside and sturdy enough for everything from breakfast to burgers. Fresh from the air fryer, they have that unmistakable crackly crust and soft, fluffy centre that makes proper bread so satisfying.
You’ll Need
Makes 8 rolls
For the Dough
500g strong white bread flour
7g fast-action dried yeast
1 tsp caster sugar
2 tsp sea salt
300ml warm water
30g unsalted butter, melted
Glaze
1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp milk
Topping
Poppy seeds
Sesame seeds
Optional but Dangerous
Salted butter
Smoked ham
Emmental cheese
Bratwurst
Wholegrain mustard
Method
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, caster sugar and sea salt.
Add the warm water and melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and leave to rise for approximately 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Divide the dough into eight equal portions and shape into smooth balls.
Using a Kaiser roll stamp, or the back of a sharp knife, press the traditional five-point star pattern into the top of
each roll.
Place onto baking paper and leave to prove for another 30 minutes.
Mix together the beaten egg and milk, then brush each roll generously.
Sprinkle with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or a mixture of both.
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.
Air fry in batches for 12–15 minutes, until beautifully golden with a crisp crust and soft, fluffy centre.
Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before serving.