Are you a fan of the distinctive flavor and dense texture of rye bread? Look no further! Rye bread is a staple in many cuisines, from Jewish delis to Scandinavian bakeries. With its slightly bitter taste and nutty aroma, it’s the perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, and sandwiches. But did you know that rye bread can also be used as a base for appetizers, side dishes, and even desserts? In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious rye bread recipes that will take your baking skills to the next level.
Whether you’re looking for classic caraway rye or something more adventurous like spiced honey rye, we’ve got you covered. From sweet to savory, and from soft to crusty, these recipes are sure to satisfy any rye bread craving. So let’s get started!
Classic Caraway Rye Bread
Classic Caraway Rye Bread Recipe
Rich and savory, this classic caraway rye bread is a staple of Eastern European cuisine. With the distinct flavor of caraway seeds and the depth of rye flour, it’s perfect for sandwiches or served alongside soups and stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place 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.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and sprinkle caraway seeds on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dark Molasses Rye Bread
Rich and dense, this Dark Molasses Rye Bread is perfect for sopping up soups or stews. The molasses adds a deep, slightly sweet flavor that complements the earthy tones of the rye.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add molasses, caraway seeds (if using), and salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Seeded Rye Sourdough Loaf
This recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough with the nutty flavor of rye flour and the added crunch of sesame seeds. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack, this loaf is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, rye flour, and all-purpose flour.
2. Add water and mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let ferment at room temperature (around 70°F) for 4-6 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Shape dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top of the loaf.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Swedish Limpa Rye Bread
A traditional Swedish rye bread recipe with a sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for sandwiches or toast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark rye flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast (for proofing)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine dark rye flour, all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt.
2. Add caraway seeds and brown sugar; mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes; shape into a round loaf.
5. Place the loaf in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let proof at room temperature (75°F – 80°F) for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Jewish Deli-Style Rye Bread
A traditional Jewish deli-style rye bread recipe that yields a dense, dark, and slightly sweet loaf with a distinctive flavor. This recipe is a staple in many Jewish delis and bakeries.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons caraway seeds
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rye flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add caraway seeds, salt, all-purpose flour, rye flour, sugar, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky 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 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until dark brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Russian Black Rye Bread
This traditional Russian bread is known for its dark color and distinctive flavor, achieved by using rye flour, caraway seeds, and a hint of molasses. With this recipe, you can enjoy the rich aroma and taste of authentic Russian black rye at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
– 1 tablespoon molasses
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye and all-purpose flours.
2. Add yeast, salt, sugar, and lukewarm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough 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.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf. Sprinkle caraway seeds on top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until dark brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
German Pumpernickel Bread
Pumpernickel bread has been a staple in Germany for centuries, known for its dense, dark, and slightly sweet flavor. This traditional recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or served on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup caraway seeds
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye and all-purpose flours, caraway seeds, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water while mixing until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 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.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until dark brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rye and Whole Wheat Sandwich Bread
This hearty sandwich bread combines the nutty flavor of rye flour with the wholesome goodness of whole wheat, making it a perfect companion for your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rye flour
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water (about 100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, whole wheat flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add the warm water and melted butter; 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 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 a rectangular loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Honey Rye Bread
Warm up with a slice of this aromatic bread infused with the comforting flavors of honey, cinnamon, and rye.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add rye flour, all-purpose flour, salt, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the bowl. Mix until a sticky 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 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rustic Rye Bread with Sunflower Seeds
This hearty bread combines the earthy flavor of rye flour with the nutty taste of sunflower seeds, creating a perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add warm water and 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 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 a round or oblong loaf.
6. Sprinkle sunflower seeds and caraway seeds (if using) on top of the bread.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Onion and Dill Rye Bread
This savory bread combines the pungency of caramelized onions with the brightness of fresh dill, perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced and caramelized
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Add melted butter, caramelized onions, and chopped dill. Mix until well combined.
5. Shape into a round or oblong loaf and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Rye Bread with Flaxseeds
Experience the depth of flavor and texture that rye bread has to offer, with a nutty twist from flaxseeds. This vegan recipe is perfect for sandwich-making or serving alongside your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast (vegan)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1/4 cup flaxseeds
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes to activate the yeast.
2. Add flour, rye flour, flaxseeds, salt, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar 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 greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rye Beer Bread with Cheddar
This rich and savory bread combines the earthy flavors of rye beer with the sharpness of cheddar cheese, perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye beer (chilled)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Add rye beer, sugar, and cheddar cheese. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Scandinavian Rye Crispbread
Experience the simplicity of traditional Scandinavian baking with this effortless recipe for crispy rye bread. Perfect as a snack or accompaniment to your favorite meals, these crunchy treats are infused with the earthy flavor of rye and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and sugar.
2. Add yeast to the lukewarm water and let it sit for 5 minutes to activate. Then, add the mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rye and Oatmeal Bread
This dense and flavorful bread combines the nutty taste of rye flour with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal, perfect for a satisfying snack or sandwich filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rye flour, oats, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until 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). Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Rye Bread with Rosemary
Discover the savory flavors of this classic bread recipe, infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary and a hint of rye spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1/4 cup caraway seeds
– 1 tsp active dry yeast
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rye flour, caraway seeds, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add olive oil and chopped rosemary; mix until well combined.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place 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).
7. Shape the dough into a round loaf and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rye Bread with Raisins and Walnuts
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of rye bread with the natural sweetness of raisins and the crunch of walnuts, creating a perfect snack or sandwich companion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rye flour
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine rye flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Fold in raisins and walnuts.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into a loaf.
6. Place in prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gluten-Free Rye-Style Bread
This recipe yields a deliciously dense and flavorful gluten-free rye-style bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just snacking. With the right combination of ingredients and techniques, you’ll be enjoying a great-tasting loaf in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice flour
– 1/2 cup potato starch
– 1/4 cup tapioca flour
– 1 teaspoon xanthan gum
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (gluten-free)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine brown rice flour, potato starch, tapioca flour, xanthan gum, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing with warm water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavor of rye bread with these 18 delicious recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic caraway and dark molasses to seeded sourdough and Jewish deli-style, there’s a recipe here for everyone. Try your hand at traditional Swedish limpa or Russian black rye bread, or get creative with flavored loaves like spiced honey, onion and dill, and herbed rosemary. Whether you’re looking for a simple sandwich bread or a crusty loaf to serve alongside soup, these recipes will guide you every step of the way.