Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (not hot)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk (warm)

Seeds and Add-Ins

  • 2 tablespoons flax seeds
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons oats (optional)

You can use any combination of seeds you like.

For Brushing the Top

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Optional Toppings

  • Extra sesame seeds
  • Oats
  • Poppy seeds
  • Sea salt flakes

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or stand mixer
  • Small oven-safe glass bowls or ramekins
  • Kitchen towel
  • Baking tray

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl combine:
    • warm water
    • sugar or honey
    • yeast
  2. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes.

The mixture should become foamy. This means the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl add:

  • flour
  • salt
  • flax seeds
  • sunflower seeds
  • sesame seeds
  • chia seeds

Mix well.

Add:

  • yeast mixture
  • warm milk
  • olive oil

Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

By Hand

  • Knead for 8–10 minutes on a lightly floured surface.

With a Mixer

  • Use the dough hook for about 5–6 minutes.

The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly soft.

Step 4: First Rise

  1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl.
  2. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap.
  3. Let rise in a warm place for 1–1 1/2 hours.

The dough should double in size.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Bowls

  1. Grease the glass bowls or ramekins with butter or oil.
  2. Sprinkle a few seeds inside for extra texture.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

  1. Punch down the risen dough gently.
  2. Divide into equal portions depending on bowl size.
  3. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
  4. Place into the prepared bowls.

Fill bowls only halfway to allow room for rising.

Step 7: Second Rise

  1. Cover the bowls loosely.
  2. Let the dough rise again for 30–45 minutes.

The dough should rise above the rim slightly.

Step 8: Add Egg Wash

  1. Mix egg yolk with milk.
  2. Brush gently over the tops.
  3. Sprinkle extra seeds and oats on top.

This creates a shiny golden crust.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Place bowls on a baking tray.
  3. Bake for 25–35 minutes.

The bread should become:

  • golden brown
  • crispy on top
  • hollow-sounding when tapped

Step 10: Cool Before Slicing

  1. Remove bread carefully from bowls.
  2. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes.

Cooling helps the inside finish baking properly.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm with:

  • butter
  • cream cheese
  • jam
  • soup
  • olive oil
  • sandwiches

Perfect for breakfast or dinner.