Mix the germ and sugar with the lukewarm water and let rise for about 5-10 minutes. Knead with the other ingredients to form a very smooth dough. Cover and let rise for about 30 minutes.

Knead the dough, roll out about 1cm thick and cut 1cm wide strips on the baking sheet and let rise for another 10-15 minutes. Brush with soaked milk, sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds and bake at 210 degrees (preheated) for about 6-8 minutes.