Save A soft, chewy, and flavorful pizza dough perfect for family pizza nights. This recipe yields a versatile base for any topping combination and bakes up golden and delicious every time.
This dough has been my go-to recipe for every family pizza night, bringing everyone together around the table and filling the house with that wonderful homemade aroma.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 4 cups (500 g) bread flour (plus more for dusting), 2¼ tsp (7 g) active dry yeast (1 packet), 1½ tsp fine sea salt, 1 tsp sugar
- Wet Ingredients: 1½ cups (360 ml) warm water (approx. 110°F/43°C), 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Step 2:
- Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
- Step 3:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Add a little extra flour if sticky.)
- Step 4:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Step 5:
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Step 6:
- Punch down the dough and divide into 2 equal portions for large pizzas (or more for smaller pizzas).
- Step 7:
- Shape each portion into a ball. Rest for 10–15 minutes, covered.
- Step 8:
- Roll out each dough ball on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Step 9:
- Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Top as desired and bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Save This recipe has created countless happy family moments, with everyone pitching in to add toppings and sharing the joy of homemade pizza fresh from the oven.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Wooden spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Kitchen scale (optional but recommended), Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, Rolling pin, Baking sheet or pizza stone
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten). May contain traces of soy or nuts depending on flour brand& check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 260 Total Fat: 3.5 g Carbohydrates: 50 g Protein: 7 g (per serving based on 6 servings, dough only)
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With these tips, your homemade pizza dough will turn out perfectly every time, making your family nights extra special.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes this dough soft and chewy?
The use of bread flour and a careful kneading process develops gluten, which gives the dough its soft and chewy texture.
- → How long should the dough rise?
Allow the dough to rise for 1 to 2 hours in a warm place until it doubles in size, ensuring proper fermentation and flavor.
- → Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, substituting up to one cup of whole wheat flour adds flavor and fiber but may slightly alter the texture.
- → What temperature is best for baking?
Bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12–15 minutes to achieve a golden, crisp crust and fully cooked interior.
- → How do I store extra dough?
After the first rise, portion and freeze the dough. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.