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Homemade Pizza Dough

Homemade Pizza Dough

Learn how to make perfect homemade pizza dough with a soft, chewy crust using simple ingredients and easy steps. This versatile recipe is beginner-friendly, customizable, and yields authentic pizzeria-quality pizza right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute half with whole wheat flour for a whole wheat twist)
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (105°F to 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Dissolve the active dry yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy and bubbling, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil while stirring to form a rough dough.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops gluten for chewiness.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape and Prepare: Gently punch down the dough to release excess air, then shape it into your desired pizza crust thickness—thin, thick, or in between.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Top your pizza as desired and bake in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and toppings are bubbly.

Notes

  • Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier crust.
  • Do not skip the rising time to enhance flavor and texture.
  • Use warm water (around 105°F to 110°F) to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Let the dough rest 10 minutes after kneading for easier shaping.
  • Preheat your oven thoroughly for a crispy-bottom crust.

Nutrition

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