How to Choose Kaiser Buns

Kaiser buns are small loaves of bread typically used for sandwiches. They make excellent hamburger buns due to their thickness and strength, but you can also serve kaiser buns as dinner rolls. Your local bakery is an ideal place to buy fresh kaiser buns, which are baked fresh every day. These four factors can govern your choice of kaiser bun:

1. Type of Dough

Kaiser buns are made from a rich dough that features eggs and sometimes milk. Variations on the traditional kaiser bun dough recipe will affect the flavor of the finished product. Consider the type of dish you plan to make with your kaiser buns when choosing your bread. Kaiser buns can be made with fermented dough to create sourdough rolls. Sourdough offers a complex flavor that many people love. You can even use sourdough kaiser buns to create sweet treats, like pain perdu.

2. Toppings

Kaiser buns can be plain or covered in toppings that enhance their flavor. Plain kaiser buns are often brushed with an egg wash before baking, which gives their crust a beautiful, shiny appearance. Some bakeries sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds over the top of their kaiser buns. These toppings can give kaiser buns an additional crunch and burst of flavor. Seeded rolls are a traditional choice for hamburger buns, but plain kaiser buns may be more versatile. You'll need to weigh the pros and cons of each type of bread before making your purchase.

3. Design

Kaiser buns feature a scored top that encourages them to rise in the oven. The way a loaf of bread is scored will affect its appearance. Kaiser buns are typically scored in ways that create beautiful surface designs. These designs can look like a simple X or like a more complex star pattern. When purchasing kaiser buns, take the opportunity to peruse the baker's wares. You can pick kaiser buns that appeal to your sense of sight as well as your sense of taste and smell.

4. Freshness

It may seem obvious that fresh bread is always better, but that isn't necessarily the case. Day-old bread has its charms, too. Depending on your plans, day-old kaiser buns might be exactly what you need. Day-old rolls are usually discounted, which will help you save money. In addition to cost savings, day-old bread is also firmer, which can be desirable if you plan to make bread pudding, croutons, or french toast with your kaiser buns.


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