If you’re looking to bake a visually striking loaf of bread with a satisfyingly crackly crust and soft, pillowy interior, then Tiger Bread, also known as Dutch Crunch Bread, is the perfect recipe for you. Originating from the Netherlands where it’s called “tijgerbrood”, this bread has made its way into bakeries and homes worldwide for its distinctive look and mouthwatering taste.
The name “Tiger Bread” refers to its unique crust, which resembles the pattern of tiger stripes. The topping is made from a rice flour paste that cracks during baking to give that signature look and texture — delightfully crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside.
Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in soups, or enjoying with a pat of butter, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Beginner-friendly – no complicated steps
✅ No special equipment – just a baking sheet and oven
✅ Freezes well – make ahead and store
✅ Versatile – great for buns or loaves
✅ Authentic Dutch flavor – just like you’d find in a European bakery
Recommended Kitchen Tools
To make this recipe a breeze, have the following on hand:
- Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen scale (optional, for accuracy)
- Wooden spoon or dough hook
- Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
- Baking tray or loaf pan
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife or lame for scoring (optional)
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (450g) bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Optional: ¼ cup milk for a softer texture
For the Tiger Topping:
- ½ cup (65g) rice flour (not regular flour)
- ½ tsp sugar
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- ⅓ cup (80ml) warm water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Bread Dough
- Activate the yeast (if not using instant yeast): In a small bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl or mixer, combine flour and salt. Add in the activated yeast (or instant yeast), oil, and milk (if using). Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–6 minutes in a stand mixer until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Dough
- After rising, punch down the dough gently.
- Divide the dough if making rolls (about 6–8 equal pieces) or shape into one large round or oval loaf.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a lightly oiled loaf pan.
3. Prepare the Tiger Topping
While the dough is resting again, make the tiger topping:
- In a bowl, combine rice flour, sugar, yeast, salt, oil, and warm water.
- Mix until it forms a thick, spreadable paste — similar to pancake batter but slightly thicker.
- Cover and let it sit for 15–20 minutes while the dough finishes proofing.
📝 Note: Rice flour is crucial. Regular flour will not produce the same crackly crust.
4. Apply the Topping
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon or brush a generous layer of the tiger paste over the top of your shaped dough.
- Allow the dough to rest uncovered for 15 more minutes while the oven preheats.
5. Bake
- Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes for rolls or 35–40 minutes for a loaf, until golden brown and the tiger pattern is clearly cracked and crisp.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Use rice flour only for the topping. It’s what gives that unique cracked pattern.
- Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for a good rise.
- The topping should be thick but spreadable — adjust water or rice flour if needed.
- Let the topping sit 15–20 minutes before applying for the best results.
- Don’t overbake — keep an eye on the bread during the final 10 minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Mini Tiger Rolls: Divide dough into 10 pieces and bake smaller rolls for sliders.
- Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half the flour for whole wheat.
- Sweet Version: Add a teaspoon of honey and use milk in the dough for a richer flavor.
- Cheesy Tiger Bread: Add shredded cheese in the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.
Make It Fit Your Diet
- Dairy-Free: Omit milk or use plant-based milk.
- Vegan: This recipe is already vegan if using water and no milk.
- Low-Sodium: Reduce salt and use unsalted rice flour topping.
Storage and Freezing
To Store:
- Store in a sealed bread bag or container at room temperature for 2–3 days.
- Refresh in a warm oven for 5 minutes to crisp the crust again.
To Freeze:
- Let bread cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic.
- Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.
Serving Ideas
- Classic Sandwiches: Use tiger bread for deli sandwiches or grilled cheese.
- Soup Sidekick: Perfect dipped in tomato soup or creamy bisques.
- Toasted with Butter: Simple, delicious, and ideal for breakfast.
- Mini Party Rolls: Serve bite-sized versions with sliders or spreads.
Conclusion
With its beautifully crackled crust, soft interior, and satisfying bite, Tiger Bread (Dutch Crunch Bread) is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re baking a loaf for sandwiches, rolls for dinner, or just want to try something new, this recipe delivers on both flavor and appearance.
The rice flour topping might seem unusual at first, but it’s the magic that transforms ordinary bread into something memorable. So don’t be afraid to mix up the dough, slather on that tiger paste, and bake your way to one of the most beloved European-style breads ever created.
