Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

Introduction

Making homemade pizza dough is easier than you might think, and it’s the perfect base for your favorite toppings. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create delicious, fresh pizza right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (optional but chef’s kiss)
• 4 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Activate the yeast by mixing warm water and sugar in a bowl, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Step 2: Add flour, salt, Italian seasoning if using, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Step 3: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add extra flour only if needed to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 60–90 minutes.
5. Step 5: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles, then roll or stretch it into your desired pizza shape.
6. Step 6: Add your favorite toppings and bake on a preheated pan or pizza stone at 475°F (245°C) for 10–12 minutes until the crust is golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For a chewier crust, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• If you don’t have Italian seasoning, substitute with dried oregano and basil.
• Let the dough rise overnight in the fridge for more complex flavor.
• Brush the crust with garlic olive oil before baking for extra flavor.

Storage

Store any unused dough in an airtight container or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before shaping. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months; thaw it overnight in the fridge before use. Reheat pizza in a hot oven or on a skillet to keep the crust crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Since it doesn’t need to be activated in water first, mix it directly with the dry ingredients and adjust water slightly if needed.

What if my dough is too sticky or too dry?

If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour while kneading. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together smoothly.

Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 130 reviews

This homemade pizza dough recipe yields a perfectly elastic, flavorful base for your favorite pizza toppings. Using simple pantry ingredients, the dough is easy to prepare and requires only a brief rise before shaping and baking to golden perfection in a hot oven.

• Author: Toney
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 1 medium pizza crust (about 12 inches) 1x
• Category: Bread and Dough
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra if needed)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• 4 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Activate yeast: Mix the warm water and sugar in a bowl, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface. Let this mixture sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
2. Mix dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms that is slightly sticky.
3. Knead: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add reserved flour as needed.
4. First rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
5. Shape: Punch down the risen dough to expel air, then roll or stretch it into your desired pizza shape and thickness.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and a pizza pan or stone. Top the shaped dough with your favorite toppings. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden and the toppings are bubbly and cooked through.

Notes

• Ensure the water is properly warmed to about 110°F to activate the yeast without killing it.
• Italian seasoning is optional but adds a lovely herb flavor to the dough.
• Use a pizza stone or an inverted baking pan preheated in the oven to get a crispier crust.
• Allowing the dough to fully rise is key for light, airy results—be patient.
• Extra flour may be needed during kneading depending on humidity and flour brand.

Keywords: pizza dough, homemade pizza, Italian dough, easy pizza recipe, yeast dough