Dutch Crunch Rolls, also known as Tiger Bread, are soft rolls topped with a crispy, crackly layer that gives them their signature appearance and texture. The crunchy topping is made from a rice flour paste that bakes into a golden, tiger-like pattern, while the inside remains tender and fluffy. These rolls are perfect for sandwiches, providing a wonderful contrast between the soft bread and the crispy topping. They’re a bakery favorite for their unique texture and are surprisingly simple to make at home.
Dutch Crunch Rolls Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Rolls:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 ½ cups bread flour
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp salt
For the Dutch Crunch Topping:
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup rice flour
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the flour, oil, and salt, and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 7-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 6-8 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round roll and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Prepare the Dutch crunch topping: While the rolls are rising, mix together the yeast, warm water, sugar, vegetable oil, salt, and rice flour in a bowl. The mixture should have a thick, paste-like consistency. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Apply the topping: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, generously brush the Dutch crunch paste over the top of each roll, ensuring an even coating.
- Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and cracked, and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.
- Cool and serve: Let the rolls cool on a wire rack before serving.
These Dutch Crunch Rolls are perfect for sandwiches or simply served warm with butter, offering a delightful combination of soft and crunchy textures.
