Pizza Dough Recipe

Pizza Dough Recipe

Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe (Step-by-Step Guide)

Pizza Dough Recipe Making homemade pizza dough is simple and rewarding! This recipe will guide you through making soft, chewy, and flavorful pizza dough from scratch.

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Ingredients:

(Makes 2 medium-sized pizzas or 1 large pizza)

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose or bread flour – Bread flour gives a chewier crust, while all-purpose flour works well too.
• 1 ¼ cups (300ml) warm water – Around 100-110°F (38-43°C) to activate the yeast.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast – You can also use instant yeast.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – Helps activate the yeast and adds slight sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For softness and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and helps gluten development.

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently.
2. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active.
   • If no foam appears, the yeast is dead, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.

Step 2: Mixing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
3. Stir with a wooden spoon or a dough whisk until a rough dough forms.

Step 3: Kneading the Dough

1. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
   • To test: Press the dough with a finger—it should slowly bounce back.

Step 4: First Rise (Proofing the Dough)

1. Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside.
2. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
3. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
   • If using instant yeast, the rise time may be shorter.

Step 5: Shaping the Pizza

1. Once risen, punch down the dough to remove air bubbles.
2. Divide into two portions if making two pizzas.
3. On a floured surface, stretch or roll out the dough into your desired pizza shape.

Step 6: Final Preparation & Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes.
2. Place the dough on a pizza stone, baking sheet, or pizza pan.
3. Add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings.
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy.

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Tips for Perfect Pizza Dough:

• Cold Fermentation: For better flavor, refrigerate the dough for 12-24 hours after the first rise.
• Thin or Thick Crust? Stretch thinner for a crispier crust, or leave it slightly thicker for a chewier texture.
• Flour Choices: Try 50% whole wheat flour for a heartier dough.
• Olive Oil Brushing: Brush the edges with olive oil before baking for a golden crust.

Try this homemade pizza dough recipe today and enjoy restaurant-quality pizza right in your own kitchen! 🍕🔥 Share your experience and favorite toppings in the comments!

Enjoy your homemade pizza! 🍕

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