Making the Most of Frozen Dough: Store-Bought Hacks for Better Baking

Why Frozen Dough Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen

Life gets busy, and making bread dough from scratch isn’t always realistic. That’s where store-bought frozen dough comes in—it’s a convenient, time-saving option that can still deliver fresh, homemade flavor. Whether you’re baking dinner rolls, pizza dough, or cinnamon rolls, there are easy ways to elevate store-bought dough to near-scratch quality.

Common Issues with Frozen Dough

If you’ve ever pulled frozen dough from the freezer only to find it:
– Takes forever to thaw and rise
– Bakes unevenly
– Turns out dense instead of fluffy

You’re not alone.

The main issue? Cold dough doesn’t proof properly, especially during winter. Without the right environment, yeast struggles to activate, and your baked goods suffer in texture and rise.

The Hack: Controlled, Even Proofing with a Heated Dough Mat

Here’s where your results change dramatically. Instead of leaving frozen dough on a chilly counter or warm oven light (with inconsistent results), use a temperature-controlled heated dough mat like the one from Bakehouse Essentials.

Set the mat to 115 – 125°F, place your frozen dough (still in the pan or tray) directly over it, and cover lightly with plastic wrap or a towel. The even heat encourages perfect rising—even straight from the freezer.

Pro Tip: Dinner rolls that normally take 6–7 hours to rise can be ready in 2 – 2-1/2 hours when proofed on a heated mat.

Quick Hacks to Elevate Store-Bought Frozen Dough

1. Add Flavor with Finishing Touches
– Brush with garlic butter, rosemary oil, or melted herb butter.
– Sprinkle sea salt, sesame seeds, or shredded cheese before baking.

2. Shape Matters
– Use frozen bread dough for knots, braids, or focaccia-style bakes.
– Slice frozen cinnamon roll dough into bite-sized pieces for mini treats.

3. Bake with Steam
– Place a tray of hot water in the oven during baking to create steam—this gives you a crispier crust and professional texture.

The Joy of Homemade—Without the Hassle

Frozen dough doesn’t have to be your fallback plan—it can be the shortcut that makes weeknight dinners or special brunches feel homemade with none of the mess. With the Bakehouse Essentials Heated Dough Mat, rising time is reliable, hands-off, and effortless—so you can bake with confidence all year long.