Unlock the Magic: Making Just Dough with Breadman

Bread machines are pretty amazing little helpers in the kitchen. But here’s the cool part you don’t have to bake a whole loaf in them! In fact, if you’ve ever wanted to make pizza dough, dinner rolls, or cinnamon buns without all the mess, your Breadman machine has a secret power: the “just dough” setting.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making just dough with Breadman. Whether you’re a total newbie or someone who hasn’t used their bread machine in years.

Ready to turn that flour into fluffy magic? Let’s get started!

What Does “Just Dough” Mean in Bread Machines?

“A friendly introduction image showing how fun it is to make just dough with Breadman”

When people hear “bread machine,” they often think it’s only good for making a full loaf. But guess what? That’s just the beginning!

What is the Dough Setting on a Breadman?

The “dough” setting on your Breadman machine is like a mini baking assistant. It takes care of the messy parts of bread-making mixing, kneading, and even the first rise. You don’t need to do any heavy lifting.

“Think of the dough setting like a robot chef that mixes and preps your dough, so all you have to do is shape it and bake it yourself!”

Once the dough is ready, you can take it out, shape it into rolls, a pizza crust, or even breadsticks, and cook it in your oven. No hot machine baking required.

Here’s a quick peek at what the Dough Cycle on a Breadman usually includes:

So in under 2 hours, you have perfectly risen dough ready to shape and bake however you like!

Why Use “Just Dough” Instead of Baking Fully in the Machine?

You might be wondering: why stop at dough? Why not let the machine bake it too?

Well, here’s the thing. Baking inside the bread machine can be handy, but the loaf shape might be weird (tall and square), and sometimes the bottom ends up with holes from the mixing paddles. Yikes!

Using just the dough setting gives you more control. You can:

• Shape the dough however you want
• Bake it in the oven for better crust and color
• Try lots of fun recipes beyond sandwich bread

“Making just dough with Breadman gives you the freedom to get creative in the kitchen, without messing up your counters or mixing by hand.”

So if you want pizza on Friday or fluffy dinner rolls for the weekend, the “just dough” option is your best friend.

Getting Started with Your Breadman Machine

Before diving into making just dough with Breadman, let’s get to know your machine a little better. Understanding the basics can save you time and make your dough turn out even better.

Understanding the Buttons and Settings

When you look at your Breadman machine, you’ll see lots of buttons. It might seem confusing at first, but don’t worry you’ll only need a few of them for dough making.

Most Breadman models have a clear “Dough” or “Dough Only” setting. This setting is designed to mix, knead, and rise your dough without baking it.

Here’s a simple overview of the most important buttons:

• Menu/Select: Scroll through different settings like Basic, Dough, and Bake.
• Start/Stop: Begin or stop the process.
• Crust Color or Loaf Size: You can ignore these when using just the dough option.

Once you choose the “Dough” setting and press Start, the Breadman does the hard work. It’ll mix your ingredients, knead the dough to the right texture, and let it rise.

Knowing this lets you relax while the machine works no messy hands or tired arms needed!

Prepping Your Ingredients the Right Way

Even though the Breadman handles the mixing and rising, the ingredients still matter a lot. Using the right ones, in the right order, can make or break your dough.

Here are a few helpful tips:

• Always add liquids first, then dry ingredients, and yeast last. This keeps the yeast from activating too soon.
• Use cold or room temperature liquids, especially in warm weather. This stops the dough from rising too fast.
• Measure by weight, not volume. A digital scale helps you get more consistent results.

Also, you might want to avoid using instant cake or pastry mixes in the Breadman. These don’t always rise well when using just the dough setting. Stick with recipes made for yeasted dough, like bread, rolls, or even pizza crust.

If you’re looking for a recipe to try, this easy buffalo chicken flatbread from Yuum Recipes would pair perfectly with dough made in your Breadman!

Step-by-Step: Making Just Dough with Breadman

Ready to actually use your Breadman? Let’s go through each step so you’ll feel confident. You’ll see how easy making just dough with Breadman really is.

Measuring Ingredients (Use a Scale for Best Results)

The first step is getting your ingredients ready. Don’t just guess or scoop weighing ingredients is the best way to avoid mistakes. A tablespoon too much water or flour can totally change your dough.

Here’s a simple dough recipe to start with:

Follow this order when adding to the pan:

1. Water
2. Oil
3. Sugar & salt
4. Flour
5. Yeast (make a small well in the flour and add it there)

Once it’s all in, put the pan into your Breadman.

Setting the Breadman to “Dough Only”

Now press the “Menu” button until you land on the “Dough” setting. This setting usually takes around 90 minutes total that includes mixing, kneading, and letting the dough rise.

Once the timer starts, you can relax. But if you want to check on it, open the lid about 10 minutes in. Make sure:

• The dough looks like a smooth ball
• Nothing is sticking to the sides of the pan
• The texture is not too dry or wet

If it feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little flour. Too dry? Add a teaspoon of water at a time.

When the cycle finishes, you’ll hear a beep. Congrats you’ve just finished making dough with your Breadman! From here, you can shape it however you like and bake it in your oven.

What You Can Make Using Just Dough

Using the dough setting on your Breadman opens up a whole world of fun recipes. Instead of baking the dough right in the machine, you can shape it any way you want and bake it in your own oven. This gives you more freedom to be creative and your bread will look and taste just how you like it!

“Image showing delicious recipe outcomes using Breadman’s dough setting perfect for inspiring creativity”

Dinner Rolls, Pizza Dough, and More

One of the best things about making just dough with Breadman is that it’s super versatile. Once the dough is ready, here are some yummy things you can make:

• Dinner Rolls – Soft, fluffy rolls that are perfect for dinner or a sandwich.
• Pizza Dough – Roll it out, top it with sauce and cheese, and bake it for pizza night.
• Cinnamon Rolls – Spread on butter, sugar, and cinnamon, roll it up, and slice!
• Flatbreads – Bake them in the oven or cook them on a skillet for a fast snack.
• Breadsticks or Pretzels – Twist your dough into fun shapes and top with salt or cheese.

“Making just dough with Breadman gives you dough that’s ready to use for so many recipes you’re not stuck with just one loaf of bread!”

Shaping and Proofing the Dough Outside the Machine

After the Breadman finishes the dough cycle, the machine will beep. That’s your signal to take the dough out and shape it.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Lightly flour your kitchen counter or board.
2. Take the dough out of the pan and place it on the surface.
3. Use your hands to gently press and shape the dough you can make it into balls for rolls, stretch it for pizza, or twist it into knots.

Once you’ve shaped the dough, let it rest and rise again. This is called the second proof. Cover it with a towel and leave it in a warm spot until it doubles in size. It usually takes 30–45 minutes.

Then, pop it in your oven and bake according to your recipe. That’s it!

Tips for Better Dough with Breadman

Even though your Breadman does most of the work, a few smart tips can help you get even better results. Great dough starts with the right choices before and during the cycle.

Use Cool Ingredients to Prevent Over-Rising

One simple trick to help your dough turn out better is using cool or cold ingredients, especially water. That may sound odd, but the bread machine warms everything as it runs. So if your ingredients are already warm, the dough might rise too fast or get sticky.

Here’s why this matters: When dough rises too quickly, it can collapse or feel too airy. Cool liquids slow things down just enough to help the dough rise at the perfect pace.

Also, don’t forget to keep your yeast away from wet ingredients when you load them into the machine. That way, it only activates when the machine starts mixing.

When to Pause and Check the Dough Texture

The Breadman is smart, but it’s still a machine and sometimes it needs a little help.

About 10–15 minutes after you hit Start, take a peek. Open the lid and check how the dough looks and feels.

Ask yourself:

• Is it forming a smooth ball?
• Is it sticking to the corners or bottom of the pan?
• Does it look too dry or too wet?

If something seems off, don’t worry! You can fix it:

• Too sticky? Sprinkle in a little flour.
• Too dry or stiff? Add a tiny bit of water, one teaspoon at a time.

This simple habit helps a lot, especially when you’re baking in a humid or dry climate.

“Remember, making just dough with Breadman is easy but your extra attention makes it even better!”

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even though the Breadman makes the dough process easier, a few things can still go wrong. But don’t worry most mistakes are small and easy to fix! Knowing what to look for helps you stay ahead and enjoy better results.

Dough is Too Sticky or Too Dry

This is one of the most common problems when making just dough with Breadman. Sometimes the dough feels like glue, and other times it crumbles apart.

If your dough is too sticky:

• Open the lid during the first 10–15 minutes of kneading.
• Add one tablespoon of flour at a time until it forms a soft ball.
• Don’t add too much flour, or the dough will turn stiff.

If your dough is too dry:

• Add a teaspoon of water at a time.
• Let it mix for a minute before deciding to add more.
• You want the dough to be smooth and soft, not hard or crumbly.

The best tip? Always check the dough during kneading that’s your chance to fix things before it’s too late.

Machine Overheating or Timer Problems

Sometimes, the Breadman might seem like it’s acting funny. Maybe the dough didn’t rise, or the cycle ended too soon. These are often small problems with easy fixes.

Here’s what to check:

• If your kitchen is too warm, the Breadman might get hotter than usual. Try using cooler water to help control the temperature.
• If the dough isn’t rising, your yeast may be expired. Always check the date on the package.
• In some cases, unplugging the machine and restarting the cycle can help reset the timer if something goes wrong.

“When making just dough with Breadman, remember that small tweaks can lead to much better dough and tastier results!”

Advanced Uses of the Dough Setting

Once you get the hang of it, the dough setting becomes even more exciting. There are a few cool tricks you can use to take your dough-making to the next level. These tips are perfect if you like being creative in the kitchen!

Slow Rise in the Fridge After Mixing

Want even more flavor in your bread or rolls? Try a slow rise in the fridge!

After the Breadman finishes kneading the dough:

1. Take the dough out and shape it into a ball.
2. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl.
3. Cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge overnight.

Why does this work so well?

• A cold, slow rise gives the dough time to build flavor.
• It also makes the dough easier to handle and shape the next day.
• Plus, it’s great if you want to prep ahead for the next meal.

So, if you’re making just dough with Breadman today, you can use it tomorrow and still get fresh, delicious results!

Custom Cycles for Knead and Proof Separately

If your Breadman model lets you use custom settings, you can do even more.

Some machines have a “Homemade” or “Custom” cycle where you pick the time for kneading and rising. This is awesome because:

• You can knead a little longer if your dough needs more strength.
• You can proof the dough at just the right time no guessing needed.

Here’s a simple idea:

• Set the kneading time for 15 minutes.
• Let it rise in the machine for 45–60 minutes.
• After that, take it out, shape the dough, and let it rise again before baking.

This method is helpful if you’re making bread for a special occasion and want it to be just right. It also gives you full control over every step.

“Making just dough with Breadman isn’t just easy it’s also flexible! Whether you want to keep things simple or try new tricks, your Breadman has you covered.”

If you’re ready to explore more ways to use your dough, don’t miss our cheese and green onion bread recipe it pairs perfectly with soups, stews, or a cozy snack!

Breadman vs. Other Tools: Why It’s Great for Dough

When it comes to mixing dough, you might wonder if you really need a bread machine like the Breadman. After all, stand mixers and hand kneading are also options. But once you learn the benefits, you’ll see why making just dough with Breadman is such a smart choice.

Is Breadman Better Than a Stand Mixer?

Let’s compare. Stand mixers are powerful and can mix dough well. But they also take up counter space and make more mess. You usually need to watch the dough closely, stop the mixer, and scrape the bowl.

With Breadman, you just add the ingredients and press a button. The machine:

• Mixes the dough
• Kneads it to the right texture
• Gives it a warm space to rise

All of that happens in one neat pan no extra mess!

Also, Breadman machines are quieter and easier to clean. Plus, you don’t need to stand nearby while it works.

So, while stand mixers are good, Breadman is better for hands-free dough making, especially if you want less hassle.

Making Dough in Hot or Cold Weather Easily

Another thing Breadman does really well? It keeps the dough warm during rising.

In the winter, your kitchen might be too cold for dough to rise properly. And in the summer, dough can rise too fast and lose its shape.

But Breadman has a set temperature for proofing, no matter the season. This means your dough turns out the same every time.

If you live in a place where the weather changes a lot, you’ll really love this feature. It takes the guesswork out of baking and helps you stay confident in the kitchen.

“Making just dough with Breadman gives you control — even when the weather outside is all over the place!”

Cleaning and Caring for Your Breadman

Taking care of your Breadman is just as important as using it. A clean machine helps your dough taste better and keeps everything working smoothly. Luckily, cleaning Breadman is easy and doesn’t take much time at all.

How to Clean the Pan and Paddles

After making just dough with Breadman, you’ll need to clean the bread pan and the mixing paddles. Here’s how:

1. Wait for the parts to cool down.
2. Remove the bread pan and paddles.
3. Wash them by hand using warm, soapy water.
4. Rinse and dry them completely before putting them back.

Don’t put these parts in the dishwasher unless the manual says it’s okay. Harsh dishwasher heat might damage the non-stick surface over time.

For stuck dough, soak the pan for a few minutes before washing. That makes it easier to clean without scrubbing too hard.

Preventing Dough from Sticking Inside

Even though the bread pan is non-stick, some dough might stick if it’s too wet. To help with this, you can:

• Use a light coat of cooking spray before adding ingredients
• Avoid overfilling the pan
• Check your dough’s texture during kneading

If the paddle gets stuck after a cycle, gently twist and pull it out. Never force it! You can also clean around it with a soft cloth.

Taking just a few minutes to clean your Breadman after each use helps it last longer and keeps every batch of dough just right.

Basic Breadman Dough (Perfect for Rolls or Pizza)

This versatile dough recipe is simple to make in a bread machine or by hand. Use it for soft dinner rolls, fluffy pizza crust, or calzones. It’s a great base for endless homemade baking creations.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Rising Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Bread, Dough

Cuisine Basic, Homemade

Servings 1 batch

Calories 1200 kcal

Equipment

• Bread Machine (optional)
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon or Dough Hook
• Kitchen Scale or Measuring Cups

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 375 g all-purpose flour about 3 cups
• 240 g water about 1 cup, room temperature or cool
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast

Instructions

 

• Punch down the dough and shape as desired for pizza, rolls, or breadsticks. Proceed with baking instructions for your chosen use.
• If making by hand: Combine water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
• Punch down the dough and shape as desired for pizza, rolls, or breadsticks. Proceed with baking instructions for your chosen use.

Notes

This dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours after rising, or frozen for later use. Great with herbs, cheese, or garlic mixed in.

Keyword Basic Yeast Dough, Bread Machine Dough, Pizza Dough, Roll Dough

Conclusion

Making just dough with Breadman is one of the easiest and most fun ways to bake at home. Whether you want soft rolls, crispy pizza crust, or fluffy buns, this simple machine does the hard work so you don’t have to.

From learning the settings to shaping your dough and caring for the machine, you now have everything you need to get started. And the best part? Every time you press that “Dough” button, you’re opening the door to fresh, homemade goodness without the stress.

So go ahead, grab your Breadman, and get baking. You’ll be amazed at what you can do with just dough!

After you’ve mastered this, you might want to try a sweet twist on your dough. This cake mix cinnamon rolls recipe is a great way to use your Breadman dough for something different and delicious.