Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe
There’s nothing quite like biting into a slice of fresh, homemade pizza—crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and topped with your favorite ingredients. The secret? A perfect homemade pizza dough that’s easy to make and tastes better than takeout. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this foolproof recipe will guide you through making restaurant-quality dough with just a few simple ingredients. Plus, it’s customizable, healthier than store-bought options, and ready in under two hours (including rise time!). Let’s get started!
Why Make Homemade Pizza Dough?
Making pizza dough from scratch is easier than you think! You’ll avoid preservatives found in pre-made dough, save money, and impress your family with your baking skills. This recipe uses basic pantry staples—flour, yeast, water, salt, and olive oil—and requires no fancy equipment. Plus, you can freeze extra dough for future pizza nights!
Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chewiness)
- 1 ½ tsp (6g) instant yeast (or active dry yeast—see substitution notes)
- 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water (about 105–110°F / 40–43°C)
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 ½ tsp (9g) salt
- 1 tsp (5g) sugar (optional, helps yeast activate)
Optional Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Whole wheat flour (replace up to 50%) |
| Instant yeast | Active dry yeast (use 2 tsp, proof in warm water + sugar first) |
| Olive oil | Vegetable oil or melted butter |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, yeast, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in warm water and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 3–4 minutes).
- Let it rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the dough, divide into 2 balls (for 12-inch pizzas), and roll out on a floured surface. Add toppings and bake!
Quick Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rise Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Total Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Servings: 2 medium pizzas (12-inch)
Expert Tips for Perfect Pizza Dough
- ✅ Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements—flour can vary by cup!
- ✅ Don’t skip kneading—it develops gluten for a chewy crust.
- ✅ Let dough rest after shaping for 10 minutes for easier stretching.
- ❌ Avoid cold water—it slows yeast activation.
- ❌ Don’t over-flour when rolling—sticky dough makes lighter crusts.
Nutrition Facts (per 1/8th of dough)
| Calories | Carbs | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180 | 34g | 5g | 2g |
FAQs
Can I freeze pizza dough?
Yes! After the first rise, wrap dough tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Why is my dough tough?
Over-kneading or too much flour can make dough dense. Aim for a slightly tacky (not sticky) texture.
Can I make gluten-free pizza dough?
Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend, but add 1 tsp xanthan gum for elasticity.
Now you’re ready to make the best homemade pizza dough—no fancy skills required! Top with your favorite sauce, cheese, and veggies, then bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12–15 minutes. Enjoy your crispy, chewy masterpiece!
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