Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

Making pizza at home is not just a culinary endeavor; it’s a delightful experience that brings family and friends together. At the heart of any great pizza is the dough, which serves as the foundation for all your favorite toppings. A good pizza dough is versatile and can accommodate various styles, from classic Neapolitan to Chicago deep-dish. The beauty of making your own pizza dough lies in the ability to customize it to your taste, ensuring that every pizza you create is uniquely yours.

Discover the joy of making homemade pizza with our easy pizza dough recipe! Perfect for any occasion, this simple guide takes you through the process of creating a flavorful and chewy crust from scratch. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll learn how to activate yeast, knead dough, and achieve the perfect rise. Whether you prefer classic toppings or creative combinations, this dough is the foundation for your culinary masterpieces. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own delicious pizzas!

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Ingredients

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

¾ cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)

1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This activates the yeast.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

Mix the Dough: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon, mix until the dough begins to come together.

Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as needed.

First Rise: Lightly coat a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into your preferred pizza shape and thickness (about 1/4 inch thick for a classic crust).

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) during the last few minutes of the shaping process.

Prepare for Topping: Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add your favorite sauces, cheeses, and toppings.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Serve: Slice up your homemade pizza and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: Makes 2 medium pizzas