Looking to make a pizza dough recipe that’s easy, delicious, and versatile? With this simple pizza dough recipe, you can create a chewy, flavorful base for any pizza night at home. Perfect for beginners and pizza lovers alike, this pizza dough recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings and seasonings.
Ingredients for Pizza Dough Recipe
- 3/4 cup warm water (100-110°F)
- 1/4 oz (7 grams) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp granulated sugar (or substitute with honey or brown sugar)
- 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier dough)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 2 tsp additional sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 1 tsp dried herbs (rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning) or 1/2 tsp garlic or onion powder for added flavor
Instructions for Making Pizza Dough Recipe
1. Prepare the Yeast for the Pizza Dough Recipe
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of warm water with the yeast. Make sure the water is between 100-110°F. If the water is too cold, the yeast won’t activate; too hot, it might kill the yeast. Add 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar to feed the yeast. Stir and let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until a foamy layer forms on top. This foam indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Mix the Dough for the Pizza Dough Recipe
Add 2 cups of flour, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, the remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the yeast mixture. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook on low speed to bring the ingredients together, then increase the speed to medium-low and knead for about 5 minutes. The dough should form a smooth, elastic ball. If mixing by hand, combine with a wooden spoon first, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Adjust the Dough Consistency (If Needed)
If the dough feels sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time until it’s manageable and cohesive without sticking to your hands. Conversely, if it feels too dry, add warm water in small amounts until it’s soft and pliable.
4. First Rise for Your Pizza Dough Recipe
Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside and turn it to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, then set it in a warm area for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Shaping and Baking Your Pizza Dough Recipe
5. Shape the Pizza Dough
Preheat your oven to 450°F. Lightly flour your countertop and punch down the dough to release any trapped air. Shape the dough into a circular pizza shape, leaving a slightly thicker edge for the crust. You can also experiment with stuffing the crust with cheese for a stuffed-crust pizza.
6. Prepare the Dough for Baking
Spread your preferred pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a border for the crust. Add your choice of mozzarella and other toppings. Keep the sauce and toppings to a thin layer to avoid a soggy pizza.
7. Bake the Pizza Dough Recipe
Bake in the preheated oven at 450°F for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Also Read:
Frittata Recipe Using Turnips and Potatoes: A Simple, Customizable Dish
Tips for the Perfect Pizza Dough Recipe
- Pizza Dough Recipe Tips: For a thinner, crispy crust, roll the dough out a bit thinner. If you prefer a chewier pizza, use bread flour or 00 flour for an authentic Italian-style pizza.
- Herb & Seasoning Options: Customize your pizza dough recipe by adding dried herbs, garlic, or onion powder to the dough for added flavor.
- Alternative Uses: This pizza dough recipe is versatile! Use it to make garlic knots, calzones, or stromboli by shaping and filling it as desired.
Enjoy your homemade pizza dough recipe for a truly delicious and customizable pizza experience right at home!
