Kaisersemmeln (Emperor Rolls)

• yeast2 1⁄4 teaspoons
• lukewarm water1 cup
• sugar↗1 teaspoon
• malt extract1 teaspoon
• flour, divided↗5 cups
• milk↗1 cup
• salt↗1 tablespoon
• cornmeal, for baking sheets↗2 tablespoons

  (for baking sheets)

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Dissolve yeast in water.

2. 2

   Add sugar, malt extract and 2 cups flour.

3. 3

   Blend well.

4. 4

   Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in bulk.

5. 5

   Add milk, salt and remaining flour.

6. 6

   Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.

7. 7

   Place in a large buttered bowl, turning to coat.

8. 8

   Cover with a towel and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in bulk.

9. 9

   Punch dough down.

10. 10

    Break off egg-sized pieces, and shape into buns.

11. 11

    Take each bun and pull corners of dough upwards, twisting to form a topknot.

12. 12

    Place on a greased baking sheet sprinkled with cornmeal.

13. 13

    Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.

14. 14

    Preheat oven to 450°F.

15. 15

    Bake rolls until light brown, about 15-20 minutes.

16. 16

    Cool on a rack.