Sweet Yeast Dough

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, for brushing

Method

1. 1

   In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let stand until foamy.

   5:00 · Proof yeast
2. 2

   Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt to the yeast mixture and whisk to combine.

3. 3

   Add the flour and mix with the dough hook on low speed until a soft dough forms, about 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Increase speed to medium-low and knead until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the bowl sides, about 8 minutes.

   8:00 · Knead dough
5. 5

   Shape the dough into a ball, place in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size.

6. 6

   Punch down the dough and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape as desired for your chosen recipe (rolls, braids, or buns).

7. 7

   Place shaped dough into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan or onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let rise again until puffy.

8. 8

   Preheat the oven to 350°F.

9. 9

   Bake until golden brown and the dough sounds hollow when tapped, 18 to 20 minutes.

   18:00 · Bake dough
10. 10

    Remove from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter. Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.