Homemade Pizza Dough, Doughnuts and Dinner Rolls

Homemade Pizza Dough, Doughnuts, and Dinner Rolls

Making food from scratch is a delightful experience, and there’s nothing quite like the comfort of warm, homemade bread. In this article, we’ll explore three classic recipes: Pizza Dough, Doughnuts, and Dinner Rolls. Each recipe has its own special charm and is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade bread isn’t just tastier; it’s also a fun activity you can do with family or friends. These recipes are straightforward and require few ingredients, making them easy for beginners. With each bite, you’ll taste the love and effort you put into making them. Plus, nothing beats the smell of fresh bread wafting through your home!

How to Make Homemade Pizza Dough

Ingredients

• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 1/4 tsp yeast
• 2 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• 4 tbsp olive oil

Directions

1. Start by proofing the yeast. In a bowl, mix sugar, warm water, and yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it foams.
2. In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning if you are using it.
3. Combine the yeast mixture with the flour mixture and add olive oil.
4. Knead the dough until it becomes stretchy and smooth.
5. Let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
6. After it has risen, stretch out the dough on a pizza stone or baking sheet.
7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
8. Add your favorite toppings and bake for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

How to Serve Homemade Pizza Dough

Slice your pizza into wedges and serve hot with your favorite sauces or dips. Enjoy it with family and friends around the table!

How to Store Homemade Pizza Dough

If you have leftover dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before using.

Tips to Make Homemade Pizza Dough

• Use warm water, not hot, to activate the yeast.
• Knead well for a crispy crust.
• Experiment with different toppings to find your favorite combination!

Variations

You can add herbs or spices into the dough for extra flavor, or even try whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought yeast?
A: Yes, you can use instant or active dry yeast for this recipe. Just follow the same instructions.

Q: What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
A: Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the water is warm enough. If it’s too cold or too hot, the yeast may not activate properly.

Q: Can I make pizza dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before using.

How to Make Doughnuts

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for brushing)

Directions

1. Mix warm milk, sugar, salt, yeast, and egg in a large bowl.
2. Incorporate softened butter, then slowly add flour to form a soft dough.
3. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth.
4. Let it rest in a warm place until it doubles in size.
5. Roll the dough out and shape it into doughnut forms. Let them rise again.
6. Heat oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (180°C) and fry each doughnut for about 1.5 minutes on each side.
7. Glaze with a mixture of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

How to Serve Doughnuts

Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or topped with your favorite icing. They make a great breakfast or sweet treat at any time of the day!

How to Store Doughnuts

Store doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 1 month.

Tips to Make Doughnuts

• Don’t overcrowd the fryer; fry only a few at a time.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough to prevent greasy doughnuts.

Variations

Try adding flavors like chocolate, cinnamon, or fruit to your doughnuts for a unique twist!

FAQs

Q: Can I use non-dairy milk?
A: Yes! Almond milk or any non-dairy substitute works just fine.

Q: How can I know when the oil is hot enough?
A: Drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it bubbles and rises, it’s ready.

Q: Can I make baked doughnuts instead?
A: Yes, you can bake them in a doughnut pan at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes.

How to Make Dinner Rolls

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (plus extra for brushing)

Directions

1. Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl and let it sit until foamy.
2. Add the egg, softened butter, salt, and flour gradually to form a dough.
3. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
4. Let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
5. Shape the dough into balls and place them in a greased pan. Let rise again.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, brushing with melted butter once they come out of the oven.

How to Serve Dinner Rolls

Serve these rolls warm, straight from the oven, as a side dish with any meal!

How to Store Dinner Rolls

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them to enjoy later.

Tips to Make Dinner Rolls

• Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
• Brush with butter while warm for a nicer flavor.

Variations

You can add herbs or cheese into the dough before baking for a delicious variation!

FAQs

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

Q: What can I do if my rolls are too dense?
A: Make sure to knead properly and let them rise long enough to double in size.

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake fresh rolls when you’re ready.

And there you have it! Enjoy making and sharing your homemade pizza dough, doughnuts, and dinner rolls with loved ones.