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cozy rustic sunflower rolls

Rustic Sunflower Seed Rolls

These hearty rustic rolls combine all-purpose and rye flours with a trio of nutritious seeds for incredible texture and flavor. With a crispy crust and tender interior, these homemade rolls offer the perfect balance of nuttiness and subtle sweetness from honey.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: European
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons flax seeds soaked overnight
  • 3 teaspoons yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups rye flour
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 2/3 cups water divided
  • 4 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • milk for brushing tops

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rye flour, and salt.
  2. In a separate small bowl, combine the yeast with honey and 1/4 cup of warm water from your total water amount. Let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
  3. Add the activated yeast mixture and remaining water to the flour mixture. Stir until combined.
  4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Fold in the sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and pre-soaked flax seeds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal portions.
  8. Shape each portion into a roll and place on a greased baking sheet.
  9. Brush the tops with water and make a decorative slice across each roll.
  10. Cover the rolls and let rise a second time until puffy.
  11. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  12. Just before baking, brush the tops with milk for a golden finish.
  13. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  14. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Don't skip soaking the flax seeds overnight - this important step helps release their nutritional benefits and improves the texture of the rolls. For a crispier crust, you can increase the oven temperature slightly. These rolls freeze beautifully for up to 3 months - simply thaw and reheat in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to refresh.
For variations, try substituting pumpkin seeds for sunflower seeds or add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional flavor.