Getting started with baking your own dough from scratch can be intimidating, especially if you’re a beginner. However, with the right techniques and simple recipes, you can become a master baker in no time. In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy basic dough recipes that are perfect for those new to baking or looking to add some variety to their repertoire.
From classic homemade pizza dough to soft pretzel dough, and from fluffy dinner rolls to traditional focaccia, these recipes will help you build a foundation in bread-making. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced baker, these easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients will have you whipping up delicious treats in no time.
Classic Homemade Pizza Dough
Create a delicious foundation for your favorite pizza toppings with this classic homemade pizza dough recipe. With a simple mixture of flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and olive oil, you’ll be enjoying a perfectly crispy crust in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the olive oil and continue kneading for 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into desired form. Top with your favorite toppings and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple No-Knead Bread Dough
Make delicious homemade bread with minimal effort using this simple no-knead method. This recipe requires only a few ingredients and some patience, yielding a crispy crust and soft interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast (active dry or rapid rise)
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast.
2. Gradually add in the water while stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. Dust a baking sheet with cornmeal and place the dough on it.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fluffy Dinner Roll Dough
Elevate your dinner table with this soft and fluffy dinner roll dough recipe, perfect for sopping up juices or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water (100°F to 110°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the warm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add the melted butter and continue to mix until the dough comes together in a sticky ball.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired roll shapes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Basic Sweet Yeast Dough
Start your baking journey with this fundamental sweet yeast dough recipe, perfect for a variety of treats like cinnamon rolls, fruit breads, and more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water (about 100°F)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Add melted butter, salt, and continue kneading until smooth and elastic (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and use as desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is for yeast-leavened dough that will be baked later.
Easy Whole Wheat Bread Dough
Start your bread-baking journey with this simple recipe that yields a delicious and nutritious loaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup warm water (around 100°F)
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add the whole wheat flour, honey or sugar, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Cooking Time:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
– Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with foil, and bake for 30-40 minutes.
– Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until golden brown.
Soft Pretzel Dough
Create soft, fluffy pretzels at home with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast)
– 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir to dissolve yeast, then let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down dough and shape into desired pretzel form.
6. Brush tops with melted butter. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Flatbread Dough
Quick Flatbread Dough Recipe
In a flash, whip up this simple flatbread dough perfect for topping with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water while stirring with a fork until dough forms.
3. Add olive oil and continue kneading for 2-3 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide dough into 2-4 equal portions, depending on desired flatbread size.
Cooking Time:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat (375°F).
2. Roll out each dough portion to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cook for 30-45 seconds or until lightly browned and puffed.
4. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 15-30 seconds.
Enjoy your quick and easy flatbread!
Versatile Pie Crust Dough
Elevate your baking game with this simple yet versatile pie crust dough recipe, perfect for a wide range of sweet and savory pies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking required! Simply roll out the chilled dough to your desired thickness and fill with your favorite sweet or savory ingredients.
Buttery Biscuit Dough
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this simple and delicious homemade biscuit dough, perfect for topping with butter, jam, or even savory ingredients like cheese or herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. Roll out to desired thickness (about 1/4 inch) and cut into shapes or squares.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Traditional Focaccia Dough
This classic Italian flatbread dough is simple to make and yields a deliciously soft and airy focaccia, perfect for sandwiches or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated and foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until smooth and shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until dough becomes soft and pliable, but not sticky.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Cooking Time: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough, shape into desired form, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Soft Cinnamon Roll Dough
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this simple recipe for soft cinnamon roll dough. This classic treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (see note)
– Optional: raisins or chopped nuts for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, proof yeast by adding warm water and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Add melted butter, yeast mixture, and cinnamon sugar to the dry ingredients; mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basic Bagel Dough
Start your bagel-making journey with this simple and versatile dough recipe.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups of warm water (around 100°F)
• 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons of sugar
• 4 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Cooking Time:
None (this is just the dough stage). You’ll shape and bake your bagels separately.
Homemade Pasta Dough
Bring the comfort of homemade pasta to your table with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and crack in the egg.
3. Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the egg, starting from the inner rim of the well.
4. As you mix, add water in small increments (about 1 tablespoon at a time) until the dough comes together in a ball.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time:
– None needed! This recipe makes pasta dough that can be shaped, cut, and cooked according to your favorite pasta dish.
Easy Naan Bread Dough
Naan bread is a popular Indian flatbread that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. With this easy recipe, you can create soft, flavorful naan with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 1 hour.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
6. Roll out each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
7. Cook naan in a preheated skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch
Enjoy your homemade easy naan bread!
Simple Sourdough Starter Dough
This recipe yields a delicious and straightforward sourdough starter dough perfect for beginners or those looking to simplify their baking routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F/32°C)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast (optional, but recommended)
Instructions:
1. In a clean glass or ceramic container, mix together the warm water and 1 cup of flour until well combined.
2. Cover the container with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it sit in a warm, draft-free place for 24-48 hours to allow the natural fermentation process to begin.
3. After 24-48 hours, discard half of the starter dough and add another 1/2 cup of flour and 1/2 cup of warm water. Mix until smooth.
4. Repeat step 3 every 24 hours for the next 5-7 days to feed and maintain your sourdough starter.
Cooking Time:
– Initial fermentation: 24-48 hours
– Feeding and maintaining the starter: every 24 hours for 5-7 days
Flaky Croissant Dough
Elevate your breakfast game with this buttery, flaky croissant dough recipe. Perfect for making classic French-style croissants or creative variations.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
• 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Roll out softened butter to a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
4. Place the dough on top of the butter, leaving a 1-inch border around all sides. Fold the dough over the butter, like a letter.
5. Rotate the dough 90 degrees and roll it out to a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
6. Cut into triangles or use a croissant cutter to shape into croissants.
7. Proof in a warm place for 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Cooking Time:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Quick Pita Bread Dough
This recipe yields a delicious and soft pita bread with minimal effort and time. Perfect for a quick snack or as a base for your favorite fillings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add yeast to the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes to activate.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into 4-6 pitas.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Basic Donut Dough
Start with a classic donut dough recipe as the foundation for your favorite donut flavors and toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add lukewarm milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (180°C).
6. Punch down the dough and cut into desired shapes. Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Challah Bread Dough
This classic Jewish bread recipe yields a tender, buttery loaf with a soft and fluffy texture. Perfect for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into desired form (e.g., braids or a loaf).
6. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Tortilla Dough
Create tender and flavorful tortillas with this simple recipe. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– ¾ cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil while mixing with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
7. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
Cooking Time:
– Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30-45 seconds on each side or until slightly puffed and pliable.
Summary
Get ready to rise to the occasion with these 20 easy and basic dough recipes perfect for beginners! From classic homemade pizza dough to fluffy dinner rolls, soft pretzels, and even flaky croissants, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these simple recipes will help you get started on the right foot. With ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, you can whip up a delicious treat in no time.
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