Pumpernickel Bread - freshly baked bread

Pumpernickel Bread

French & European-Style Bread

Dark, dense German pumpernickel with a subtle sweetness from molasses and cocoa. Sliced thin for open-faced sandwiches.

Prep Time

20 min

Proof Time

2h

Bake Time

45 min

Servings

10

Calories

165

Ingredients

  • 3 cups bread flour
  • 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs

Instructions

  1. 1

    Activate Yeast

    Dissolve sugar in warm water. Add yeast and wait 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Mix Dough

    Add butter, eggs, salt, and flour. Knead 10 minutes until smooth.

  3. 3

    Rise

    Cover and rise 60–90 minutes until doubled.

  4. 4

    Shape

    Shape as directed — braid, round, or loaf.

  5. 5

    Second Rise

    Cover and rise 30 minutes.

  6. 6

    Bake

    Brush with egg wash. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden.

Baker's Notes

European breads often benefit from a long, slow fermentation. Even an extra hour of rise time develops noticeably more flavour.

Baker Thomas Moreau

Nutrition Facts

165

cal

6g

Protein

4g

Fat

34g

Carbs

4g

Fiber

215mg

Sodium

Tips & Tricks

  • Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) gives European breads their golden sheen.
  • Many European breads improve in flavour after a day of resting.
  • Use bread flour for the best gluten development and structure.

Reviews (5)

Robert B.★★★★★

Five stars! The crust was perfectly crispy and the crumb was soft and airy. I'll never buy store-bought bread again.

Jennifer K.★★★★★

This is now our go-to bread recipe. The house smelled incredible while it was baking. My kids couldn't wait to tear into a warm slice.

André G.★★★★★

Just like from the bakery! The crust is crispy and the crumb is soft. Bravo for this extraordinary recipe.

Chantal D.★★★★★

Easy to prepare and so delicious! Even my picky kids went for seconds. This bread has become a staple in our home.

Pierre T.★★★★★

Excellent recipe. I followed the instructions to the letter and the result was perfect. My wife loved it. The best homemade bread I've made.