Crazy Dough: One Dough for Pizza, Cinnamon Rolls, Bread & More!

This Crazy Dough is a versatile, no-knead dough that can be transformed into countless recipes—pizza, cinnamon rolls, breadsticks, dinner rolls, and more! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a go-to dough recipe that’s perfect for sweet or savory creations.

Makes: Enough for 2 medium pizzas, 12 cinnamon rolls, or 1 large loaf of bread

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus rising time)

Cook Time: Varies by recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 cup whole milk , warmed to about 110°F (45°C)
• 1/2 cup water , warmed to about 110°F (45°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter , melted (or olive oil for a dairy-free option)
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the liquid and let it sit for 5-10 minutes , until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter (or oil), eggs, and salt.
2. Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

1. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours , or until doubled in size.
2. Alternatively, you can refrigerate the dough overnight for slower fermentation, which enhances the flavor. Bring it to room temperature before using.

Step 4: Use the Dough for Your Desired Recipe

Once the dough has risen, divide it as needed and shape it according to your chosen recipe. Below are some ideas:

Variations:

1. Pizza

• Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) .
• Roll out half the dough into a circle or rectangle on a floured surface.
• Transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone, top with sauce, cheese, and toppings, and bake for 12-15 minutes , until golden and bubbly.

2. Cinnamon Rolls

• Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
• Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with a mix of 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 tbsp cinnamon .
• Roll tightly into a log, cut into 12 slices, and place in a greased baking pan.
• Let rise for 30 minutes , then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes .
• Drizzle with a glaze made from 1 cup powdered sugar , 2-3 tbsp milk , and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract .

3. Breadsticks

• Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a long rope.
• Place on a baking sheet, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with garlic powder, Parmesan, or sesame seeds.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes , until golden.

4. Dinner Rolls

• Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces, shape into balls, and place in a greased round or rectangular baking pan.
• Let rise for 30 minutes , then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes , until golden brown.

5. Sweet Bread Loaf

• Shape the dough into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
• Let rise for 30 minutes , then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes , until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) .

Tips for Success:

• Make ahead: Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months . Thaw frozen dough in the fridge overnight before using.
• Customize: Add herbs, cheese, or spices to the dough for savory recipes, or chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for sweet variations.
• No-knead magic: This dough requires no kneading, making it beginner-friendly and foolproof.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: ~200
• Protein: ~5g
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Fat: ~5g

Enjoy this Crazy Dough as your ultimate kitchen staple for creating endless baked goods! Whether you’re craving pizza, cinnamon rolls, or fresh bread, this versatile dough has you covered.