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Dorothy Thomas

Pumpernickel Bread Recipe

A classic, dense, and flavorful German-style rye bread with a deep molasses and cocoa flavor. Perfect for sandwiches or toasted with butter!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 1 12
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: German
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ¼ cups Warm water (105°F–110°F)
  • 2 ¼ tsp Active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup Molasses
  • 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 1 ½ cups Bread flour
  • 1 ½ cups Rye flour
  • 2 tbsp Cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 1 ½ tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Caraway seeds (optional)
  • 1 tbsp Cornmeal (for dusting)

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Loaf pan (9x5 inches)
  • Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
  • oven

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1 tsp molasses. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine remaining molasses, apple cider vinegar, and yeast mixture.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together bread flour, rye flour, cocoa powder, salt, and caraway seeds (if using).
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
  5. Knead by hand (10 minutes) or with a stand mixer (5–7 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled.
  7. Punch down dough, shape into a loaf, and place in a greased loaf pan dusted with cornmeal.
  8. Cover and let rise for 45–60 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  10. Bake for 40–45 minutes until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • For a darker color, add 1 tbsp instant coffee to the wet ingredients.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • Pumpernickel tastes best when toasted or served with hearty soups.