Vienna bread is known for its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal. In this recipe, we’ll infuse the traditional Vienna bread with unconventional ingredients like aquafaba and spelt flour, giving it a unique twist while keeping it vegan and nutritious.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups spelt flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 3 tbsp aquafaba (chickpea brine)
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom (optional for added flavor)
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping

Instructions

Begin by activating the yeast. In a bowl, combine warm water and maple syrup. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cardamom (if using). Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and aquafaba.

Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms. Add the olive oil and knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape the dough into a rectangular loaf or divide it into smaller pieces for rolls. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.

After the second rise, gently brush the top of the dough with a bit of aquafaba and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your unique Vienna bread warm or toasted with your favorite vegan spreads!