Note: To use the windowpane test to check dough for proper gluten development, lightly flour hands and pinch off (don’t tear) a small piece of dough. Slowly pull the dough out from the center. If the dough is ready, you will be able to stretch it until it’s thin and translucent like a windowpane. If the dough tears, it’s not quite ready. Knead for 1 minute, and test again.
Mixer Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together ½ cup (120 grams) warm water, 2 teaspoons (8 grams) sugar, and yeast. Let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes. Whisk in warm milk, melted butter, and egg.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 5 cups (625 grams) flour, salt, and remaining 4 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon (52 grams) sugar. Add to yeast mixture; using the paddle attachment, beat at low speed until dough comes together.
3. Switch to the dough hook attachment. Beat at low speed until a smooth, elastic, somewhat sticky dough forms, 12 to 14 minutes, stopping to scrape sides of bowl and dough hook; add up to ¼ cup (31 grams) flour, 1 tablespoon (8 grams) at a time, if dough is too sticky. (Dough should pass the windowpane test but may still stick slightly to the bottom of bowl.) Turn out dough onto a very lightly floured surface, and gently shape into a ball.