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A cozy kitchen scene featuring a ball of homemade pizza dough on a floured wooden surface, with a rolling pin and small bowls of flour, olive oil, and yeast nearby, ready for pizza night.
Jana Rae

Perfect Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

This easy homemade pizza dough recipe creates the perfect crust—chewy, crispy, and full of flavor! Includes instant yeast and active dry yeast options.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Rise Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 1 12-inch pizza
Course: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 1083

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup warm water 100-110°F 180mL
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 7g / 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar divided
  • 2 cups all purpose flour 240g all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¾ teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Bloom the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, stir together the warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Let the mixture stand until it is very frothy on top, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Make the Dough: Add the flour, olive oil, salt, and the remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar to the yeast mixture. Attach the dough hook. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute until combined, then increase to medium-low speed. Knead until the dough forms a smooth ball and springs back when lightly poked, about 5 minutes.
  3. First Rise: On a clean counter, shape the dough into a tight ball. Place it in a lightly oiled large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let rise in a warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, 45 to 60 minutes.
  4. Preheat & Shape: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Punch down the risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, shape it into a 12-inch circle, forming a slightly thicker rim around the edge.
  5. Top: Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza pan. Reshape if needed. For a golden crust, brush the outer rim with olive oil. Top with sauce and your desired pizza toppings.
  6. Bake: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Notes

Tips for the Best Pizza Dough

Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier crust.
Cold fermentation (overnight rise) enhances flavor and texture.
For extra crispiness, bake on a preheated pizza stone.
Brush edges with olive oil for a golden-brown crust.
Don't overload toppings to prevent a soggy crust.