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Pre-packaged frozen bread dough is one ingredient that cuts time when preparing meals in the comfort of one’s home. Despite being most popularly used in baking bread, its uses are not limited to just baking bread. Frozen bread dough recipes can be as simple as a sweet or savoury that you have in mind or they can be a canvas for creativity. In this article, the author describes ten exciting and doable ideas on how to make use of frozen bread dough and how this versatile ingredient can take your prepared meals and baked goods to the next level.
1. Cinnamon Rolls
Frozen bread dough makes preparing cinnamon rolls a breeze. Thaw the dough according to package instructions, then roll it out into a rectangle. Spread a mixture of butter, sugar, and cinnamon evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly. Slice into rounds, place in a greased baking dish, and let rise until doubled. Bake until golden brown and drizzle with cream cheese icing for a delightful breakfast or dessert treat.
2. Stromboli
Create a savoury stromboli using thawed frozen bread dough. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and layer it with your favourite fillings, such as sliced deli meats, cheese, and vegetables. Roll up the dough tightly, pinching the edges to seal, and place the seam side down on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian herbs before baking until golden and bubbly. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
3. Pizzas
Make homemade pizzas using frozen bread dough as the crust. Thaw the dough and roll it out into the desired pizza shapes. Top with tomato sauce, cheese, and your favourite toppings, such as vegetables, meats, and herbs. Bake in a hot oven until the crust is crisp and the cheese is bubbly. Frozen bread dough yields a chewy and flavourful pizza crust that can be customised to suit any taste preference.
4. Pretzels
Transform frozen bread dough into soft pretzels for a salty snack. Thaw the dough and divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope and shape it into pretzels. Boil briefly in water mixed with baking soda, then bake until golden brown. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt for authentic homemade pretzels that are perfect for snacking or serving with mustard dip.
5. Garlic Knots
Create irresistible garlic knots using thawed frozen bread dough. Cut the dough into strips and tie each strip into a knot. Bake until golden brown, then toss with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Serve warm as a side dish or appetiser, perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or enjoying on their own.
6. Monkey Bread
Make a sweet and sticky monkey bread using frozen bread dough. Thaw the dough and cut it into small pieces. Dip each piece in melted butter and roll in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Layer the coated pieces in a bundt pan, drizzling with any remaining butter and sugar mixture. Bake until golden and caramelised, then invert onto a serving platter for a fun and delicious pull-apart treat.
7. Calzones
Prepare homemade calzones using thawed frozen bread dough. Roll out the dough into circles and fill one half with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, cooked sausage or vegetables, and marinara sauce. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Brush with olive oil and bake until golden and crisp. Serve hot with additional marinara sauce for dipping.
8. Breadsticks
Bake crispy breadsticks using thawed frozen bread dough. Roll the dough into thin strips and place them on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Bake until golden brown and serve warm as a side dish or appetiser. Breadsticks made from frozen dough are quick to prepare and pair perfectly with soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
9. Doughnuts
Indulge in homemade doughnuts using thawed frozen bread dough. Roll out the dough and cut into rounds using a doughnut cutter or glass. Let rise until doubled, then fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels and toss in cinnamon sugar or glaze with icing for a decadent breakfast or dessert option.
10. Bread Pudding
Create a comforting bread pudding using thawed frozen bread dough. Tear the dough into pieces and place them in a greased baking dish. Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, then pour over the dough. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, then bake until set and golden. Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or whipped cream for a satisfying dessert that makes use of leftover bread dough.
Frozen bread dough is a versatile ingredient that opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From sweet treats like cinnamon rolls and monkey bread to savoury delights such as stromboli and calzones, there are countless ways to use thawed frozen bread dough in your kitchen.
