Save Hearty slices of dense German black bread are toasted to perfection, then finished with classic savory toppings. This simple dish makes for a satisfying snack, appetizer, or light meal with rustic flair.
When I first tasted German Pumpernickel toasted and loaded with tangy cheese and fresh vegetables, I was hooked. Now I often serve these toasts for casual gatherings, where they never last long.
Ingredients
- Bread: 8 slices German black bread (Pumpernickel)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp, softened (or vegan spread)
- Goat cheese or cream cheese: 100 g mild
- Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Cucumber: 1 medium, thinly sliced
- Fresh dill: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Capers: 1 tbsp, drained
- Black pepper: freshly ground, to taste
- Sea salt: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven or grill pan:
- Set oven to 200°C (390°F) or preheat grill pan over medium-high.
- Toast bread:
- Arrange bread on baking sheet and toast in oven for 6<8 minutes, or grill each side for 2<3 minutes, until crisp and fragrant.
- Prepare toppings:
- Slice onion and cucumber, chop dill, and drain capers.
- Butter the bread:
- Removed toasted bread and spread each slice with butter or vegan spread.
- Add cheese:
- Smear each slice with goat cheese or cream cheese.
- Layer vegetables:
- Arrange cucumber and onion slices over the cheese.
- Finish with garnish:
- Sprinkle with dill, capers, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save This is one recipe my family loves to make together: everyone gets to build their own slice just how they like it, making mealtime as fun as it is delicious.
Required Tools
Oven or grill pan, baking sheet (if using oven), spreading knife, cutting board, chef’s knife.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten (bread) and dairy (butter, cheese). Use gluten-free bread and vegan substitutes if allergies are a concern, and check labels for any hidden ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has approximately 180 calories, 7 g fat, 23 g carbohydrates, and 6 g protein.
Save Rustic German black bread toasts are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Customize each slice with your favorite toppings for a unique treat every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different bread for this dish?
Absolutely. While German black bread provides unique flavor and texture, rye or whole-grain breads work well too.
- → What toppings can I substitute for cheese?
Try dairy-free spreads for a vegan option or layer avocado or hummus for different tastes and textures.
- → Is this snack suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes. Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream cheese to make the toasts completely vegan-friendly.
- → Can these toasts be made ahead?
Toppings can be prepped ahead, but toast and assemble bread just before serving for best texture.
- → What are good protein additions?
Add smoked salmon, pickled herring, or sliced eggs to enhance protein and flavor for non-vegetarian options.