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Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

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4.1 from 6 reviews

This homemade pizza dough recipe yields a soft, chewy crust perfect for any pizza lover. Made with simple ingredients and allowed to rise for optimal flavor and texture, this dough can be stretched or rolled out to your preferred thickness. Ideal for creating delicious, restaurant-quality pizzas at home, it also supports added toppings for a customized pizza experience.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Yeast Mixture

  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ cup warm water (warm to the touch, not hot)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)

Dough

  • 2 ½ cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup warm water (warm to the touch, not hot)

For Rising and Baking

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing bowl)
  • Flour (for kneading and rolling)
  • ¼ cup cornmeal (optional, for pan)
  • Additional olive oil for pan or topping

Instructions

  1. Proofing The Yeast: In a bowl or stand mixer base, combine 1 teaspoon sugar, ½ cup warm water, and 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and smells slightly earthy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mixing The Pizza Dough: In a separate bowl, mix together 2 ½ cups flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (if using). Add this flour mixture to the yeast mixture, then pour in 3 tablespoons olive oil and the remaining ½ cup warm water. Using a mixer with a dough hook or a food processor, mix on low until combined, about 1 minute. Increase speed to medium-high and mix for 5 minutes until the dough pulls away from the bowl and feels stretchy. If mixing by hand, see notes for kneading guidance.
  3. Letting The Dough Rise: Brush 1 tablespoon olive oil inside a heatproof bowl with a silicone brush. Transfer the dough to this bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Place the bowl in a warm spot near the stove and let the dough rise for 30 minutes or until it has roughly doubled in size.
  4. Stretching The Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and your rolling pin, then sprinkle a bit of flour on the dough. Knead gently a few times by folding the dough and pressing it with the heels of your hands to stretch it slightly. Roll or stretch the dough to your preferred size and thickness, typically about 12 inches in diameter for this recipe.
  5. Preparing to Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Oil your baking pan lightly or evenly sprinkle ¼ cup cornmeal on the pan to create a crunchy crust and prevent sticking.
  6. Shaping the Pizza: Stretch the dough with your hands or a floured rolling pin to about 12 inches across. If holes develop, pinch them closed or reroll and stretch again until you achieve a solid circle.
  7. Adding Toppings and Baking: Add your favorite pizza toppings evenly on the dough. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and pizza is cooked through. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Notes

  • If mixing dough by hand, knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until stretchy and smooth.
  • Use warm water, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Allowing the dough to rest and rise in a warm environment helps activate the yeast and improves dough elasticity.
  • Cornmeal on the pan adds texture and prevents sticking but is optional.
  • The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours after rising for more complex flavor development.
  • If holes appear while stretching, patch by pinching or reroll and gently stretch again.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian