Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors and aromas with these 20 delicious European bread recipes! From classic French baguettes to hearty German pretzels, each country has its own unique take on traditional bread-making. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the continent, sharing authentic recipes that will transport your taste buds to the rolling hills of Tuscany, the charming streets of Paris, and the cozy cafes of Vienna.
From sweet-smelling Italian ciabatta to savory Swedish limpa rye bread, every country has its own signature style. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your next baking adventure. So grab a cup of coffee, put on your apron, and let’s get started with our first recipe: the classic French baguette!
French Baguette
Experience the classic French bread-making tradition with this simple recipe for a delicious and crusty baguette. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked baguettes in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough should form a sticky ball.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a long, thin baguette.
6. Place the baguette on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
German Pretzels
A classic German treat, these soft and buttery pretzels are perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or pretzel salt for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Twist the rope into a pretzel shape, placing on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush melted butter over the pretzels and sprinkle with sesame seeds or pretzel salt if desired.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Italian Ciabatta
This recipe yields a deliciously crusty and airy ciabatta loaf, perfect for sandwiches or serving with your favorite soups and sauces. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle kneading, you’ll be enjoying this authentic Italian treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape the dough into a ciabatta loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swedish Limpa Rye Bread
This traditional Swedish rye bread, also known as Limpa, is a classic Scandinavian treat that’s both delicious and visually appealing. With its distinctive orange hue and flavorful caraway seeds, it’s perfect for serving with your favorite spreads or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, orange marmalade, caraway seeds, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a round loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes total, including rising time.
Portuguese Broa de Milho
Broa de Milho is a traditional Portuguese corn bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside soups and stews. This recipe uses sweet cornmeal to create a moist and flavorful loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, buttermilk, and beaten egg. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dutch Tiger Bread
This traditional Dutch recipe yields a sweet and buttery bread with a distinctive tiger stripe pattern, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and cardamom.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Beat in the egg and milk until smooth.
5. Pour the batter onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to form a rectangle.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Austrian Kaisersemmel
The Kaisersemmel (Emperor’s Bun) is a traditional Austrian breakfast pastry that’s soft, fluffy, and utterly delicious. This simple recipe yields a batch of golden-brown buns perfect for starting your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into 6-8 buns.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and egg wash.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Polish Babka
This traditional Polish sweet bread is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. Moist and flavorful, with a delicate crumb and sweet aroma, this babka recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until yeast is activated.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a babka.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Hungarian Pogácsa
Pogácsa, a traditional Hungarian savory pastry, is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations. This recipe yields a deliciously flaky and flavorful treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, salt, and baking powder. Mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water, kneading until smooth and pliable.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or triangles).
5. Place pogácsa on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Olive Bread
A classic Greek bread infused with the savory flavor of Kalamata olives, perfect for accompanying your favorite Mediterranean dishes or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped Kalamata olives, pitted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, honey, and salt to the mixture; stir until dissolved.
3. Gradually add flour, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead dough on floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place loaf on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and sprinkle chopped olives evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Danish Rugbrød
Rugbrød is a traditional Danish bread that’s dense, dark, and packed with flavor. This recipe yields a deliciously crusty loaf with a soft interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
2. Add caraway seeds and yeast to the dry ingredients; mix well.
3. Gradually add warm water while stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Brush beaten egg on top of the loaf and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Belgian Pain d’Épi
Pain d’Épi, also known as a bread wreath or French bread crown, is a classic Belgian recipe that’s both visually stunning and delicious. This sweet bread is perfect for special occasions or as a simple snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add lukewarm milk, beaten egg, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
5. Form into a wreath shape and place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Pan de Cristal
Pan de Cristal is a classic Spanish bread that’s crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious bread at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
3. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
6. Cut into desired shape (e.g., rectangle or circle).
7. Bake in preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your crispy and flaky Spanish Pan de Cristal!
Swiss Zopf
Traditional Swiss Zopf bread is a sweet, braided loaf that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe yields a delicious and visually appealing treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and braid together.
7. Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each strand.
8. Brush the top with melted butter and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Let it cool before dusting with confectioner’s sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Irish Soda Bread
This classic Irish recipe yields a deliciously soft and crusty bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite soups or stews. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this iconic treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
4. Gradually add buttermilk, stirring until the dough forms a sticky ball.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead for 1-2 minutes, until smooth.
6. Shape into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Finnish Ruisleipä
Ruisleipä is a classic Finnish bread recipe that has been passed down for generations. This dense and nutritious whole grain bread is made with rye flour, caraway seeds, and minimal sugar, making it a staple in many Finnish households.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– Optional: 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, and salt.
2. Add yeast and mix until evenly distributed.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the bread is dark brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Norwegian Flatbrød
Flatbrød is a classic Scandinavian flatbread that’s been a staple in Norwegian cuisine for centuries. This simple recipe yields a deliciously crispy and flavorful bread perfect for snacking, serving with meals, or using as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water while stirring with a fork until the dough forms a sticky ball.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Cook the flatbrød for 30-45 seconds on each side, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Bulgarian Pitka
Pitka is a traditional Bulgarian bread that’s soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet. This recipe yields a delicious and authentic pitka that’s perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite Bulgarian dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong pitka.
7. Brush with vegetable oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Romanian Cozonac
Romanian Cozonac: A Sweet Tradition
This traditional Romanian dessert is a sweet bread filled with walnuts and raisins, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup raisins
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Add sugar, warm milk, egg, and melted butter. Mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Fold in chopped walnuts and raisins.
4. Knead dough on floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until elastic and smooth.
5. Shape into a round loaf and place in greased bowl, covered with plastic wrap.
6. Let rise in warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Croatian Pogača
Pogača is a traditional Croatian savory pastry that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of cheese, herbs, and spices to create a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup grated cheese (such as Cheddar or Swiss)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into two equal pieces.
6. Roll out each piece into a thin sheet.
7. Sprinkle cheese, parsley, dill, and paprika onto one half of each sheet.
8. Fold the other half over to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
9. Brush edges with beaten egg and press gently to seal.
10. Brush tops with vegetable oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to explore the rich world of European breads! This article features 20 authentic recipes from across the continent, each with its unique flavors and textures. From classic French baguette to German pretzels, Italian ciabatta to Swedish limpa rye bread, and many more, these recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a crusty loaf or a soft, fluffy treat, there’s something for everyone in this delicious collection of European breads.
