Hello BackyardGrillQueen,
Making dough with milk is a wonderful way to achieve a soft, tender crumb with a rich, delicious flavor. Using warm milk instead of water creates an enriched dough, which works exceptionally well for soft dinner rolls, sandwich bread, or sweet buns. Here is a clear, simple method that consistently yields great results.
Ingredients:
1 cup whole milk
2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one standard packet)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Warm the milk gently until it is lukewarm, ideally between 105 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit. It should feel pleasantly warm to the touch, not hot, as excessive heat will destroy the yeast. Pour the warm milk into a large mixing bowl, then stir in the sugar and active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbled on top.
Step 2: Combine the ingredients
Add the flour, salt, and melted butter into the milk and yeast mixture. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms and no dry pockets of flour remain.
Step 3: Knead
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough by pushing it outward with the heel of your hand, folding it back over itself, and repeating this motion for about 8 to 10 minutes. The finished dough should feel smooth, pliable, and slightly tacky without sticking excessively to your hands.
Step 4: First rise
Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and turn it once so it is lightly coated. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in volume.
Step 5: Shape and bake
Once risen, gently press down on the dough to release trapped gas. Shape the dough into dinner rolls or place it into a loaf pan. Cover and allow it to rise a second time for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes until the crust turns a rich golden brown.
I hope this recipe serves you well! Take your time with each step, and enjoy the delicious aroma while it bakes.