Step-by-step basic bread dough recipe

This recipe works every time - use it to make all sorts of breads and rolls.

Makes

1 loaf

Ingredients

• 450g (3 cups) plain bread flour (see note)
• 1 tbs (12g/2 sachets) dried yeast
• 2 tsp caster sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 2 tbs melted butter

Method

1. Combine flour, yeast and sugar in a large bowl. Stir in salt. Make a well in the centre. Add milk and butter.
2. Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture until well combined, then use your hands to bring the dough together in the bowl. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Brush a large bowl with olive oil to grease. Place the dough in the bowl and cover with a damp tea towel. Set aside in a warm, draught-free place to prove for 45 minutes-1 hour or until the dough has almost doubled in size.
4. Punch down the centre of the dough with your fist. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 2 minutes or until the dough is elastic and has returned to its original size. Continue following your recipe (see related recipes).

Notes

• For best results, use a plain bread flour (also known as bakers flour). This has a high protein content, which helps to create the elasticity the dough needs to rise. If bread flour is unavailable, use ordinary plain flour instead.