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Runza Dough Recipe

Runza Dough Recipe

Soft, golden, and slightly sweet this Runza Dough Recipe is the heart of Nebraska’s iconic stuffed bread. Made from simple pantry ingredients like flour, yeast, milk, and butter, it bakes into a tender crust that’s perfect for savory fillings like beef and cabbage.
Prep Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Bread
Cuisine: American, German
Calories: 260

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup warm milk about 110°F / 43°C
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for greasing bowl

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
  2. Add softened butter and egg; whisk until smooth and fully blended.
  3. Gradually add flour and salt, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a soft dough forms.
  4. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes (or about 5 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
  5. Lightly grease a clean bowl with oil, place the dough inside, and cover with a towel. Let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough gently, divide into portions, and shape into balls or rectangles. Let rest for 10–15 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Brush the tops with melted butter, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm.

Notes

  • If dough feels sticky, add 1–2 tbsp flour until soft but not dry.
  • For extra flavor, substitute milk with buttermilk.
  • For a golden crust, brush with egg wash before baking.
  • Refrigerate overnight for next-day baking.
  • Works perfectly for stuffed Runzas, bierocks, or dinner rolls.
Runza Dough Recipe
Runza Dough Recipe