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A golden-brown, soft, and versatile master sweet dough dusted with powdered sugar on a wooden board.

Master Sweet Dough Recipe

This master sweet dough recipe is perfect for home bakers who want one reliable dough for multiple desserts. It creates soft, rich, and fluffy results that are ideal for baked goods.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Proofing Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 50 ounces dough
Course: Baking, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 1 cup milk warm
  • 3 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar for yeast
  • 6 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 0.5 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs room temperature

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Warm the milk until it feels warm to the touch but not hot, about 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of the sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the milk, then let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Add the flour to a large mixing bowl or stand mixer bowl.
  4. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix on low speed until combined.
  5. Add the remaining sugar, eggs, softened butter, and salt, then mix on low until a rough dough forms.
  6. Increase to medium speed and knead for 8 to 12 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  7. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat.
  8. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 90 minutes or until doubled in size.
  9. Punch down the dough and shape as desired for rolls, buns, or other baked goods.
  10. Allow shaped dough to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes before baking according to your chosen recipe.

Notes

The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. If it sticks heavily, add a small amount of flour while kneading.