Go Back
different shapes of bread placed lined on a table

Basic Bread Dough Recipe (Beginner's Yeast Dough)

This easy homemade bread dough recipe creates a soft, versatile yeast dough perfect for rolls, buns, braided breads, and creative bread shapes. A beginner-friendly base dough that can be used for both sweet and savory baking projects.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rest Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 bread rolls
Course: Bread
Cuisine: General
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all‑purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp instant yeast
  • 3 tbsp butter softened
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Water as needed

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
  2. Add the softened butter and mix lightly into the dry ingredients.
  3. Gradually pour in the water while mixing.
  4. Continue mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. If the dough feels sticky, add a small amount of flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  7. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover.
  8. Let the dough rise for 15 to 25 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  9. Shape the dough into rolls, loaves, twists, braids, or your preferred bread design.
  10. Bake according to your recipe or desired bread style until golden brown.
  11. Allow the bread to cool slightly before serving.