Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this one-dough wonder. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Versatile : Use it for sweet or savory dishes—pizza, cinnamon rolls, bread, or dinner rolls.
- Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Time-Saving : Prepare one batch of dough and use it for multiple meals throughout the week.
- Customizable : Add herbs, spices, cheese, or sugar to suit your taste.
- Make-Ahead Friendly : Prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this magical dough lies in its simple yet adaptable combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweet vs. savory recipes)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted, or substitute olive oil for savory options)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to whip up this magical dough? Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter (or oil), and eggs. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on low speed for 5–7 minutes.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning it once to coat the surface. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Customize and Shape
Once the dough has risen, divide it into portions and shape it according to your desired recipe. Below are ideas for transforming the dough into different creations:
Transformations: What You Can Make
1. Pizza Crust
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) .
- Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle on a floured surface.
- Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone, add your favorite toppings, and bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
2. Cinnamon Rolls
- Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12x16 inches).
- Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll tightly into a log, slice into rolls, and place them in a greased baking pan.
- Let them rise for 30 minutes, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. Drizzle with cream cheese glaze after baking.
3. Soft Dinner Rolls
- Divide the dough into equal portions (about golf ball-sized).
- Shape into balls and place them in a greased baking pan, leaving space between each roll.
- Let them rise for 30 minutes, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until golden brown. Brush with melted butter after baking.
4. Loaf of Bread
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Let it rise for 30–45 minutes, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
