Grandmother’s Secret Dough recipe is a treasure passed down through generations, known for its perfect blend of ingredients and foolproof method. This dough creates the most incredibly soft, fluffy, and delicious bread that will make you the star of any family gathering. With no added preservatives and simple, wholesome ingredients, it’s a recipe you can feel good about making and sharing.

The process begins with activating the yeast in warm milk, ensuring that the dough rises beautifully. The combination of butter and a generous number of eggs enriches the dough, giving it a rich flavor and a tender crumb. After a double rise, the dough is shaped and topped with sesame seeds, then baked to golden perfection. The result is a versatile dough that can be used for rolls, loaves, or any bread-based dish, promising a delightful eating experience every time.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 70 g (2.5 oz) sugar
• 10 g (0.4 oz) dried yeast
• 450 ml (15 fl oz) milk
• 200 g (7.1 oz) butter, melted
• 800 g (28 oz) flour
• 5 g (0.2 oz) salt
• 10 g (0.4 oz) baking powder
• 10 eggs
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 30 ml (1 fl oz) milk (for egg wash)
• 30 g (1.1 oz) sesame seeds
• 2 liters (68 fl oz) water

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 70 g of sugar, 10 g of dried yeast, and 450 ml of warm milk.
   • Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • Add the melted butter to the yeast mixture and stir well.
   • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing continuously until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the 10 eggs together.
   • Gradually incorporate the beaten eggs into the risen dough, kneading well to combine.
   • Let the dough rest for another 30 minutes.
5. Shape the Dough:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Divide the dough into desired portions and shape them into rolls or loaves.
   • Place the shaped dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Egg Wash and Toppings:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 30 ml of milk.
   • Brush the tops of the dough with the egg wash.
   • Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top.
7. Bake the Dough:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the baked dough to cool on a wire rack.
   • Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy the soft, fluffy, and delicious homemade dough.

Tips:

• Ensure that the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
• You can add additional toppings like poppy seeds or sunflower seeds for extra flavor and texture.
• This dough can be used for making rolls, loaves, or any other bread-based recipes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Kcal: 220 kcal per serving (approximate) | Servings: Makes about 12 servings

Here are some additional tips and information about this recipe:

Tips for Making the Best Dough

1. Proper Yeast Activation: Ensure your milk is warm but not too hot to activate the yeast properly.
2. Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for the best texture.
3. Resting Time: Don’t rush the rising process; giving the dough ample time to rise ensures it’s light and fluffy.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

1. Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs to the dough for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
2. Sweet Bread: Incorporate dried fruits and a touch of cinnamon for a sweet variation.
3. Serving Ideas: Pair with soups, stews, or simply enjoy with butter and jam.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked bread for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a brief look at the nutritional content per serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 220 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

Possible Questions About This Recipe

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
   • Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier bread.
2. What if I don’t have sesame seeds?
   • You can use other seeds like poppy seeds or sunflower seeds, or skip the seeds altogether.
3. How do I know when the dough is fully kneaded?
   • The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.
4. Can I use instant yeast instead of dried yeast?
   • Yes, but you may need to adjust the quantity as instant yeast is more potent.
5. What if my dough doesn’t rise?
   • Ensure your yeast is fresh and the rising environment is warm enough.
6. Can I make this dough ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight for a slow rise.
7. How do I prevent the dough from sticking to my hands?
   • Lightly oil your hands or dust them with flour while kneading.
8. Can I add fillings to this dough?
   • Yes, you can add cheese, herbs, or other fillings to the dough before baking.
9. How do I store the dough if I don’t bake it immediately?
   • Store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours.
10. What can I serve with this bread?
    • It pairs well with soups, salads, and main dishes, or enjoy it as a snack with your favorite spreads.

Conclusion

Enjoy making and sharing Grandmother’s Secret Dough with your friends and family. It’s a perfect recipe that combines rich flavors and comforting textures in every bite!