Basic Sweet Bread Dough Recipe

Name: Basic Sweet Bread Dough
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: Sponge; 3/4 cup warm water (110 degrees max); 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; Dough; 3/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt; 1/2 cup butter, softened, cut into small pieces; 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or 2 teaspoons grated citrus zest; 4 1/2 - 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Servings: persons

Sponge
3/4 cup warm water (110 degrees max)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Dough
3/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt
1/2 cup butter, softened, cut into small pieces
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract or 2 teaspoons grated citrus zest
4 1/2 - 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1
For the sponge: In a small bowl stir together water and sugar until sugar is dissolved. Stir in yeast and flour. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside until bubbly and active, about 10 to 15 minutes.
2
For the dough: In a large bowl, mix together all of the sponge, yogurt, butter, eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla or citrus zest. Add flour 1 cup at a time, mixing until the dough comes away cleanly from the sides of the bowl.
3
Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until soft and pliable but not sticky. Let dough rest while you clean and grease the bowl. Finish kneading the dough until it's smooth, supple, and springy.
4
Place the dough in a greased bowl, turn to coat all surfaces, cover with plastic wrap and let sit in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled.
5
Gently deflate the dough and shape into desired shapes. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 35 to 45 minutes.

879

kcal

Calories

Fat

128

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: Sponge, 3/4 cup warm water (110 degrees max), 2 teaspoons sugar, 1 tablespoon active dry yeast, and more.

Yes, Basic Sweet Bread Dough falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Basic Sweet Bread Dough

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions