This Pizza Dough recipe creates a perfect base for any pizza, with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. It’s easy to make and can be used for a variety of toppings. Follow this recipe to make a delicious homemade pizza dough that will be the star of your next pizza night.
Appliances and Special Utensils
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional)
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Rolling pin
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
Instructions
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Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour and the kosher salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
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Knead Dough: If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
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Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal portions for two pizzas. Roll each portion into a ball and let them rest for 10 minutes.
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Roll Out Dough: Use a rolling pin to roll out each ball of dough into a 12-inch circle. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few more minutes and try again.
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Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or directly on a pizza peel if using a pizza stone. Brush the edges with olive oil for a golden crust.
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Add Toppings: Add your desired pizza toppings and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
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Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade pizza with a perfectly crisp and chewy crust!