Kitchenaid Food Processor 101: How To Use The Dough Blade And Make Perfect Dough Every Time!

If you’re a home baker looking to elevate your dough-making game, a KitchenAid food processor with a dough blade is an invaluable tool. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use it effectively to create perfect doughs every time.

Assembling the Food Processor

1. Attach the dough blade to the base of the food processor.
2. Place the bowl on top of the base and lock it into place.

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Measure and combine all dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
2. Cut cold butter into small cubes.
3. Gradually add cold water to the dry ingredients while pulsing the food processor.

Mixing the Dough

1. Add the cubed butter to the food processor and pulse until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Continue pulsing while adding water a little at a time until the dough just starts to come together.
3. Stop the food processor and check the consistency. The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet.

Kneading the Dough

1. Turn the food processor on low speed and allow it to knead the dough for 30-60 seconds.
2. Stop the food processor and check the dough’s elasticity. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more water.
3. Continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Shaping the Dough

1. Remove the dough from the food processor and place it on a lightly floured surface.
2. Shape the dough according to your desired recipe.

Baking or Storing the Dough

1. If baking immediately, follow the recipe’s baking instructions.
2. If storing the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for Success

• Use cold ingredients to prevent the dough from becoming too warm and sticky.
• Pulse the food processor in short bursts to avoid overworking the dough.
• If the dough becomes too sticky, add more flour a tablespoon at a time.
• If the dough becomes too dry, add water a teaspoon at a time.
• Experiment with different flours to create a variety of doughs.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dough is too sticky: Add more flour or knead the dough for a longer period.
• Dough is too dry: Add more water or knead the dough for a shorter period.
• Dough is not elastic: Knead the dough for a longer period or add more water.
• Dough is tearing: The dough may be too dry. Add more water or knead the dough for a shorter period.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use the dough blade to make all types of dough?
A: Yes, the dough blade is suitable for making a wide variety of doughs, including bread, pizza, pasta, and pastry doughs.

Q: How long should I knead the dough in the food processor?
A: The kneading time will vary depending on the type of dough. As a general guideline, knead for 30-60 seconds for pizza dough, 1-2 minutes for bread dough, and 2-3 minutes for pasta dough.

Q: Can I overwork the dough in the food processor?
A: Yes, overworking the dough can result in a tough and chewy texture. Be sure to pulse the food processor in short bursts and check the dough’s consistency regularly.