Copycat Pillsbury Crescent Rolls

Similar to the tubes of crescent dough you can buy at supermarkets. This dough can also be used in other recipes that call for Pillsbury crescent roll dough. The recipe makes the equivalent of 2 tubes of storebought dough. Be sure not to skip the step where you brush the dough with butter before baking. ***TIP***: For foolproof rising conditions, place dough in a large greased bowl, covered, in a cold oven. On the bottom rack, fill a 9x13 inch pan with boiling water and close the door. The moisture and heat makes for perfect results every time.

• Ready In: 3 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 32
• Yields: 2 8 oz. tubes

Ingredients

• 2 (4 1/2teaspoon) packages dry yeast
• 3⁄4 cup water (100-110 degrees F)
• 2  large eggs, beaten
• 1⁄4 cup shortening, cubed
• 1⁄3 cup butter, cubed
• 4  cups flour, divided
• 1⁄2 cup sugar
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1  tablespoon butter, melted

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tbsp of the sugar in the warm water. Let sit until foamy - 10 minutes
2. In a separate bowl, combine remaining sugar, salt and 3 cups flour. Using the paddle attachment, once yeast is foamy, stir in beaten eggs followed by shortening and butter. Next, add flour mixture using the dough hook. Turn out onto floured surface and slowly add the last cup of flour, kneading to achieve a smooth, elastic consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour. Use as little as possible - you may not need to add all the flour.
3. Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease the top of the dough. Let rise in a warm place (85 degrees F) until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours. ***TIP*** At this point if you want to use the dough for something other than crescents, such as other recipes using Pillsbury crescent dough, you can shape it as desired.
4. To form crescents: When done rising, divide in half, rolling each half into a 12-inch circle 1/4 inch thick. Spread with the soft butter and cut each circle into 16 wedges. Roll up each wedge beginning at the largest end and place, point side down, on a greased baking sheet. Curve to form crescents. Cover and let rise until doubled, approximately 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until
6. rich golden brown. Remove from oven and brush with butter.
7. **You can do this recipe by hand, although I find a stand mixer to be much quicker.