20 Easy 2 Ingredient Dough Recipes for Beginners

Posted on February 26, 2025

Short on time but craving homemade goodness? These 20 easy 2-ingredient dough recipes are your new kitchen superheroes! Whether you’re whipping up quick weeknight dinners, cozy comfort food, or last-minute party bites, this magical dough is your ticket to effortless deliciousness. No fancy skills required—just grab your ingredients and let’s get baking! (Trust us, your future self will thank you.)

2 Ingredient Pizza Dough

2 Ingredient Pizza Dough

Who knew pizza night could be this easy? With just two pantry staples, you’ll have a chewy, crispy crust ready for toppings in minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (125g) self-rising flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1/2 cup (120g) plain Greek yogurt (full-fat works best)

Instructions:

  1. Mix the dough: In a bowl, combine the self-rising flour and Greek yogurt. Stir with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 2–3 minutes until smooth (it’ll be slightly sticky but shouldn’t stick to your hands).
  3. Shape: Roll or stretch the dough into a 10-inch circle (or rectangle for sheet-pan pizza) on parchment paper.
  4. Bake: Top as desired, then bake at 450°F for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and crisp at the edges.

The magic here? The yogurt adds tangy depth and keeps the crust tender inside while crisping up beautifully. No yeast, no waiting!

Tip: For extra flavor, brush the crust with garlic butter right after baking.

Simple Flatbread Recipe

Simple Flatbread Recipe

This no-fuss flatbread is soft, slightly chewy, and perfect for pairing with dips, wraps, or even enjoying on its own.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tsp baking powder

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp baking powder. Make a well in the center and pour in 1 tbsp olive oil and 3/4 cup warm water.
  2. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 3–4 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp towel and rest for 10 minutes.
  3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a thin circle (about 1/8″ thick) on a floured surface.
  4. Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each flatbread for 1–2 minutes per side until puffed and lightly charred in spots.

The magic here? The baking powder gives these just enough lift for a tender bite without yeast or waiting.

Tip: Brush cooked flatbreads with garlic butter or sprinkle with za’atar while warm for extra flavor!

Quick Pretzel Bites

Quick Pretzel Bites

These buttery, salty pretzel bites are the ultimate snack—ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for game day or a cozy movie night.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (16 oz) tube refrigerated pizza dough
  • 6 cups water
  • 1/4 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp coarse sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
  3. In a large pot, bring the water and baking soda to a boil. Working in batches, boil the dough bites for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
  4. Brush the bites with the beaten egg, then bake for 12–15 minutes until deep golden brown.
  5. Toss the warm bites with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

The baking soda bath gives these bites their signature chewy-crisp texture, while the buttery finish makes them downright addictive.

Tip: Serve with spicy mustard or cheese sauce for dipping—they disappear fast!

Easy Cinnamon Rolls

Easy Cinnamon Rolls

These gooey, soft cinnamon rolls come together with minimal fuss—perfect for lazy weekend mornings when you crave something sweet and comforting.

Ingredients

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, divided
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp softened butter (for filling)
  • ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 1 tbsp milk (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Pour in warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead in remaining ¾ cup flour until smooth (about 5 minutes). Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.
  3. Roll dough into a 12×9-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
  4. Tightly roll the dough into a log, pinch the seam shut, and slice into 9 even rolls. Arrange in a greased 9-inch round pan.
  5. Cover and let rise 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake for 20–22 minutes until golden.
  6. Whisk powdered sugar and milk into a glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls.

The magic here? A touch of extra butter in the filling caramelizes into sticky pockets between the layers—no one can resist peeling them apart!

Tip: For extra-fluffy rolls, place the pan on top of your preheating oven during the second rise.

Homemade Bagels

Homemade Bagels

Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling fresh, chewy bagels from your own oven—plus, they’re way easier to make than you’d think!

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 4 cups bread flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar, divided
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg white, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the warm water, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, remaining 1 tbsp sugar, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.
  4. Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope, then pinch the ends together to form a ring. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and rest for 20 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then gently boil the bagels for 1 minute per side. Transfer back to the baking sheet, brush with egg white, and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning (if using).
  6. Bake for 20–22 minutes until deeply golden. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing.

The secret to their perfect chew? The quick boil before baking—it gives them that iconic crust and soft interior.

Tip: For sweeter bagels, add an extra tbsp of sugar to the dough and top with cinnamon sugar before baking.

Soft Dinner Rolls

Soft Dinner Rolls

These buttery, pillowy rolls are a must-have for any gathering—warm from the oven, they practically melt in your mouth.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, yeast, and 1/4 cup sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in 4 tbsp melted butter, the egg, and 1 tsp salt. Gradually mix in 3 1/2 cups flour until a soft dough forms.
  3. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  4. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape into balls and arrange in a greased 9×13″ pan. Cover and rise for 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake rolls for 18–20 minutes until golden brown. Brush with extra melted butter if desired.

The secret to their cloud-like texture? A touch of sugar in the yeast mixture ensures an extra-light crumb.

Tip: For a shiny top, brush rolls with an egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) before baking.

Garlic Knots

Garlic Knots

These buttery, garlicky knots are the ultimate sidekick to pasta night—soft, pull-apart bread with just the right amount of garlic punch.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Divide pizza dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a 6-inch rope, then tie into a loose knot. Place on the baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and puffed.
  4. While knots bake, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
  5. Brush warm knots generously with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

The magic here? Brushing the knots right out of the oven lets the garlic butter soak into every nook for maximum flavor.

Tip: For extra-crispy edges, broil for 1–2 minutes after brushing—just keep an eye on them!

Cheesy Breadsticks

Cheesy Breadsticks

These golden, pull-apart breadsticks are loaded with melty cheese and garlic butter—perfect for game day or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out pizza dough into a 10×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Transfer to the baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, and salt. Brush evenly over the dough.
  4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the buttered dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
  5. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the edges are golden and cheese is bubbly. Sprinkle with parsley (if using).
  6. Let cool for 2 minutes, then slice into 1-inch strips with a pizza cutter.

The magic here? The garlic butter soaks into the dough as it bakes, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

Tip: For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—just watch closely to avoid burning!

Sweet Donut Holes

Sweet Donut Holes

These bite-sized treats are irresistibly fluffy, cinnamon-sugared perfection—perfect for weekend brunch or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon.
  2. In another bowl, mix 3/4 cup whole milk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp melted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
  3. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter into the oil (fry 4–5 at a time) and cook for 2–3 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
  4. Toss warm donut holes in a bowl with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon until coated.

The magic here? The batter fries up light as air with a crisp cinnamon-sugar shell—no yeast or rolling required!

Tip: For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or dip in vanilla glaze while still warm.

Savory Crackers

Savory Crackers

These homemade savory crackers are crisp, flavorful, and perfect for snacking—no fancy ingredients required, just pantry staples and a little love.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup cold water
  • 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika.
  3. Add the olive oil and mix until crumbly. Gradually stir in the cold water until a dough forms.
  4. Roll the dough out thinly (about 1/8-inch thick) on a floured surface. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes.
  5. Transfer to the baking sheet, sprinkle with 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning, and lightly press to adhere.
  6. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool completely before serving.

The smoked paprika and everything seasoning give these crackers a bold, addictive flavor—you’ll never go back to store-bought!

Tip: For extra crispiness, let the rolled dough rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.

Basic Breadsticks

Basic Breadsticks

These crispy, golden breadsticks are a foolproof side for soups or salads—just a handful of pantry staples transforms into something seriously snackable.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 tbsp melted butter
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp dried oregano

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, salt, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth.
  3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F. Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a 6-inch rope.
  5. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with 1 tbsp olive oil and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden.
  6. Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and oregano. Brush over warm breadsticks.

The double hit of olive oil in the dough and garlic-herb butter guarantees a crisp exterior with a tender, fluffy center—no one will guess how simple they are!

Tip: For extra crunch, twist each rope before baking and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Quick Focaccia

Quick Focaccia

This no-fuss focaccia comes together in a flash, with a golden crust and pillowy interior that’s perfect for tearing and sharing.

Ingredients:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 tbsp flaky sea salt
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, yeast, and honey. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in flour and kosher salt until a shaggy dough forms. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, then knead in the bowl for 2 minutes until smooth.
  3. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour (or until doubled).
  4. Press dough into a greased 9×13″ pan. Dimple the surface with your fingers, then drizzle with remaining 2 tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and rosemary.
  5. Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp at the edges.

The magic here? That dimpled surface traps pockets of olive oil for an irresistibly crispy-chewy bite every time.

Tip: For extra flavor, rub the rosemary with a little olive oil before sprinkling—it wakes up the herb’s fragrance!

Soft Pretzels

Soft Pretzels

Nothing beats the warm, chewy goodness of homemade soft pretzels—perfect for game day, snacking, or just because!

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, 1 tbsp sugar, and 2 tsp yeast. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in flour, 2 tsp kosher salt, and melted butter until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth.
  3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
  4. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Bring 8 cups of water and ½ cup baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
  5. Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll each into a 20-inch rope, twist into a pretzel shape, and boil for 30 seconds per side. Transfer to baking sheets.
  6. Brush pretzels with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12–15 minutes until deep golden brown.

The secret to that iconic pretzel crust? A quick dip in baking soda water before baking—it gives them that irresistible chewy texture and glossy finish.

Tip: For extra flavor, try brushing baked pretzels with garlic butter or serving with spicy mustard.

Sweet Scones

Sweet Scones

These buttery, lightly sweet scones are perfect for weekend brunch or an afternoon treat—flaky on the outside, tender inside, and just begging for a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt.
  3. Cut in 1/2 cup cold cubed butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 large egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir just until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, gently knead 2–3 times, then pat into a 1-inch-thick circle. Cut into 8 wedges and transfer to the baking sheet. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp turbinado sugar.
  6. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden. Cool slightly before serving.

The secret? Minimal handling keeps these scones impossibly light—no tough, dense bricks here! They’re heavenly warm with jam or clotted cream.

Tip: Freeze the unbaked wedges on the tray for 20 minutes before baking for extra flaky layers.

Savory Biscuits

Savory Biscuits

Flaky, buttery, and packed with a hint of garlic and herbs, these biscuits are the ultimate comfort food—perfect for breakfast or alongside a cozy soup.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • ¾ cup cold buttermilk
  • 1 tbsp honey

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp dried thyme.
  3. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.
  4. Stir in ¾ cup buttermilk and 1 tbsp honey just until the dough comes together (don’t overmix).
  5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, pat into a 1-inch-thick rectangle, and fold it over itself 2–3 times for flaky layers. Cut into 8 squares.
  6. Arrange biscuits on the baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and puffed.

The thyme and garlic add a savory depth, while the honey gives just a whisper of sweetness—making these biscuits dangerously addictive.

Tip: Freeze unbaked biscuits on the tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes!

Simple Wraps

Simple Wraps

These easy, customizable wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner—packed with fresh flavors and ready in minutes!

Ingredients:

  • 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (or substitute with grilled tofu)
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced red onions
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
  2. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 10–15 seconds per side, or microwave them for 10 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel.
  3. Spread 1 tbsp of the dressing onto each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
  4. Divide the shredded chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions evenly among the tortillas.
  5. Fold the sides of the tortillas inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling.
  6. Slice in half diagonally and serve immediately.

The tangy lime dressing and crisp veggies balance the hearty chicken, making every bite refreshing yet satisfying.

Tip: For extra crunch, add a handful of crushed tortilla chips before rolling!

Easy Calzones

Easy Calzones

These cheesy, foldable calzones are like pizza’s portable cousin—perfect for busy weeknights or game-day snacking.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Divide pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a 7-inch circle.
  3. In a bowl, mix mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, 1/2 cup marinara, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Spoon filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold dough over filling, crimp edges with a fork to seal, and brush tops with beaten egg.
  5. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool 5 minutes before serving with extra marinara.

The ricotta-mozzarella blend stays gloriously gooey inside, while the egg wash gives the crust a shiny, golden finish.

Tip: For crispier calzones, brush the crust with olive oil instead of egg wash.

Quick Empanadas

Quick Empanadas

These quick empanadas deliver all the crispy, savory goodness of the classic without the fuss—perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day snack.

  • 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crust (2 crusts)
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 1/4 cup finely diced bell pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Remove from heat.
  3. Unroll pie crusts and cut each into 4 equal wedges. Spoon 2 tbsp filling onto each wedge, fold into triangles, and crimp edges with a fork. Brush tops with beaten egg.
  4. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and flaky. Cool slightly before serving.

The secret here? Using store-bought pie crust for a buttery, flaky shortcut—no one will guess how easy these were!

Tip: For a spicy kick, add 1/4 tsp chili powder to the filling.

Sweet Pastry Puffs

Sweet Pastry Puffs

These buttery, flaky pastry puffs are like little clouds of joy—perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat with coffee.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Unfold the puff pastry and cut into 12 equal squares. Arrange them on the baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon. Brush each pastry square with the beaten egg, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  4. Bake for 15–18 minutes until puffed and golden. Let cool for 5 minutes, then dust with 2 tbsp powdered sugar.

The magic here? The layers puff into crisp, caramelized perfection while staying tender inside—no fancy folding required!

Tip: For extra flair, drizzle with melted chocolate or a swipe of jam before serving.

Savory Dumplings

Savory Dumplings

These tender, pan-fried dumplings are packed with juicy pork and aromatic ginger—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or weekend dim sum feast.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 2 cups finely chopped napa cabbage
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 30 round dumpling wrappers
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1/2 cup water (for steaming)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine ground pork, napa cabbage, green onions, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp ginger, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix until well blended.
  2. Place 1 tbsp filling in the center of each dumpling wrapper. Fold and pleat edges to seal.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Arrange dumplings in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes until bottoms are golden.
  4. Pour in 1/2 cup water, cover, and steam 5 minutes. Uncover and cook 2 more minutes until crispy. Repeat with remaining oil and dumplings.

The magic? A crispy bottom and juicy interior—thanks to the pan-fry-and-steam method. Serve with chili oil for extra kick!

Tip: Freeze uncooked dumplings on a tray before transferring to a bag for easy future meals.

Conclusion

With 20 fuss-free recipes, this roundup proves that delicious baking starts with just two ingredients! Whether you’re a beginner or a busy home cook, these easy dough ideas are sure to inspire. Try one (or a few!) and let us know your favorite in the comments. Loved this list? Share the baking joy—pin it on Pinterest for later!

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