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The Secret to Perfect Pizza Dough: A Step-by-Step Guide

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This pizza dough recipe delivers a soft, airy interior with a perfectly crisp crust. It is versatile, affordable, and easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Whether you are making a thin-crust pizza, thick-crust, or even garlic knots, this dough provides a reliable foundation for all your homemade pizza creations.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups warm water
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: Combine warm water and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast over the water and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Mix well.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the flour mixture. Pour in yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until rough dough forms.
  4. Knead the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. First Rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl. Place dough inside and turn to coat. Cover and let rise 1–2 hours until doubled.
  6. Punch Down the Dough: Gently punch dough to release air.
  7. Shape the Dough: Divide into portions. Roll out to desired thickness.
  8. Optional Pre-Bake: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Pre-bake dough 5–7 minutes for a crispier crust.
  9. Add Toppings: Add tomato sauce, cheese, chicken ham, turkey bacon, and vegetables.
  10. Bake the Pizza: Bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12–15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese bubbles. Rotate halfway for even baking.

Notes

Use a pizza stone or steel for a crisper crust.

Adjust water slightly if using whole wheat flour.

Dough can be made ahead or frozen for future use.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 15