Kaiser rolls are typically savory and used as either dinner rolls or sandwiches. But have you ever found yourself thinking your kaiser roll would be a little bit better if it were ever so slightly sweet? In fact, sweet kaiser rolls work well for a number of applications. They're a great side for a spicy meal, like chili, and they're a nice choice for sandwiches like chicken salad. And here's the best part: you can make bakery-style, slightly sweet kaiser rolls at home by following this recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 package active, dry yeast
• 1 cup milk, warmed to 110 degrees F
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup bread flour
• 2 tablespoons vital wheat gluten
• 1 egg white, beaten lightly, optional
• sesame seeds, optional

Directions:

Begin by pouring your packet of yeast into a bowl. Add the sugar and milk, and stir to dissolve. Let this mixture sit until it becomes frothy, which should take between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on how warm your kitchen is.

When your yeast is foamy, add the honey, all-purpose flour, salt, and vital wheat gluten. Mix to form a soft dough. 

Place the cup of bread flour on a smooth countertop or kneading board, and pour your soft dough out on top of it. Slowly knead the dough into the flour until all of the flour is incorporated. Then, keep kneading for about 5 more minutes or until the dough is smooth.

Place your dough ball in a lightly greased bowl. Brush the top with a little more vegetable oil, and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the dough rest for 2 hours if your kitchen is above 70 degrees, or 2.5 hours if your kitchen is below 70 degrees. 

Divide the dough into 12 pieces. The dough will naturally deflate as you shape it and divide it. Use your hands to roll each of these pieces into balls. Spread them out on a lightly greased baking sheet, leaving at least 4 inches between them.

You can leave the rolls as they are, or you can brush them with egg white and sprinkle them with sesame seeds. It's up to you! Either way, let them rise for another 45 minutes before baking them at 400 degrees F for 18 - 22 minutes. The rolls should be 200 degrees F inside when done baking.

Let them cool, and then enjoy your slightly sweet kaiser rolls. They're a fun twist on an old classic. For extra tips on baking kaiser buns, contact a local bakery.