Rich Yeast Dough
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (rising time)
Description: This delightful dough, featured in the Better Homes & Gardens publication “Holiday Cooking 1988,” is a true kitchen gem. Not only does it deliver exceptional taste, but it also comes with the convenience of being freezer-friendly for up to three months and requires absolutely no kneading! This versatile dough can be transformed into dinner rolls, cinnamon rolls, appetizers, or even pizza crust. If you’re using unsalted butter, consider adding an extra teaspoon of salt for a perfect balance of flavors.
Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
Keywords: Breads, For Large Groups, Less than 4 Hours
Yield: 3 loaves (approximately 36 servings)
Ingredients:
- 6 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 packets active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (use an extra teaspoon if using unsalted butter)
- 5 large eggs
Instructions:
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of the all-purpose flour with the active dry yeast.
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Heat Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, butter, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture is very warm (between 115°F and 120°F). Stir constantly until the butter is almost melted.
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Combine Mixtures: Add the warm milk mixture to the flour mixture. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
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Mix the Dough: Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on low speed for 30 seconds, then increase to high speed and beat for 3 minutes.
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Incorporate Remaining Flour: Stir in the remaining flour using a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
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Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, and lightly grease the top of the dough. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours (less time if using Rapid Rise yeast).
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Divide and Chill: Stir the dough down and divide it into thirds, with each portion weighing approximately 1 pound. Place each portion into a 1-gallon ziplock bag, leaving ample space for the dough to expand. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before use.
- Note: Each portion is sufficient to make a dozen cinnamon rolls or dinner rolls, or one pizza crust.
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To Freeze: After dividing the dough, seal each portion in a ziplock freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the bags and freeze for up to three months.
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To Use Frozen Dough: Thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator while still in the bag. For quicker thawing, unwrap the dough and place it in a greased microwave-safe pie plate. Microwave uncovered on the “low” or “defrost” setting until thawed, which typically takes about 15 minutes (microwave times may vary).
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 145.4
- Fat: 5.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.9 g
- Cholesterol: 41 mg
- Sodium: 76.1 mg
- Carbohydrates: 20.9 g
- Fiber: 0.7 g
- Sugar: 3.1 g
- Protein: 3.7 g
Enjoy the versatility and convenience of this rich yeast dough for all your baking needs! Whether you’re whipping up a batch of fluffy dinner rolls or creating a scrumptious cinnamon roll breakfast, this dough is sure to be a hit with everyone.
