Description
This lightly sweet, soft yeast dough is perfect for making sweet rolls, babka, challah, brioche-style bread, or even donuts! It’s easy to work with and bakes into a beautifully tender bread with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
3/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- Add egg, melted butter, salt, and vanilla to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Knead on a floured surface (or in a mixer with a dough hook) for 6-8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape & Bake
- Punch down the dough and shape it into loaves, rolls, braids, or buns.
- Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes (for rolls) or 30-35 minutes (for loaves), until golden brown.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
- Let cool slightly before serving. Brush with melted butter or honey for a soft, glossy finish!
Notes
Make it richer: Replace ¼ cup of milk with heavy cream for a brioche-like texture.
For cinnamon rolls: Roll out the dough, spread with butter, cinnamon, and sugar, roll up, slice, and bake.
For a golden crust: Brush with an egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon milk) before baking.