Name: Easy Peasy Pizza Dough Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups Bread Flour; 1 tablespoon Active Dry Yeast; 1 tablespoon Caster Sugar; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 1/2 cups Water (about 105°F / 40°C); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil

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Introduction

This easy peasy pizza dough recipe is perfect for home cooks looking to make delicious, homemade pizza from scratch. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a soft, chewy crust ready to top with your favorite flavors.

The image shows two dough balls placed on a white marbled surface. The dough ball in the front is slightly larger, with a rough, flour-covered texture and soft creases, while the one in the back appears smoother and rounder with less flour on it. On the left side, there is a metal pot partially visible, showing some white foamy liquid inside. Scattered around the dough are small red grape tomatoes, some whole and some cut in half. Small green herb sprigs add a touch of color near the edges. The overall scene is clean and bright with soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon caster sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 1/2 cups bread flour

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the active dry yeast and caster sugar into warm water (about 105°F / 40°C). Let the yeast dissolve and froth for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 2: Stir salt and olive oil into the yeast mixture, then gradually add the bread flour in 1/2-cup intervals.
Step 3: When the dough becomes hard to stir, transfer it to a floured surface. Continue adding flour while kneading until the dough no longer sticks to your hands. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
Step 4: Place the dough in a clean, greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a warm towel. Allow it to rise for 1 to 2 hours until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Return the dough to a floured surface and knead a few more times. Divide into two balls, cover with plastic wrap, and let rest for 15 minutes. Freeze one ball if not using immediately.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 475°F (250°C) and place a baking sheet inside to heat.
Step 7: Shape the rested dough into a round disc. Hold one edge and quickly rotate it, letting the dough stretch by its weight. If thin spots appear, work the dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle and pinch edges to create a rim.
Step 8: Grease the hot baking sheet generously, then transfer the dough onto it.
Step 9: Brush the dough with olive oil and add your favorite toppings.
Step 10: Bake on the lowest oven rack for 10 to 12 minutes.
Step 11: Move the pizza to the upper rack and broil for 2 minutes to finish.
Step 12: Serve hot and enjoy your homemade pizza!

Tips & Variations

Use bread flour for a chewier crust, or substitute with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
Allow the dough to rise overnight in the fridge for enhanced flavor.
If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much to keep the crust tender.
Frozen dough can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before use.

Storage

Store unused dough balls tightly wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze dough balls for up to 3 months. To reheat, let frozen dough thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How to Serve

The image shows two dough balls resting on a white marbled surface. The dough in front is dusted with flour and has a slightly rough texture, while the dough in the back looks smooth and pale. To the left, there is a shiny metal container partially visible, and there are a few small red cherry tomatoes scattered near the dough. A small green herb sprig is also faintly visible on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use warm tap water for the yeast?

Yes, but make sure the water is around 105°F (40°C). Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, while water that is too cold will slow down the activation process.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

This usually means the yeast was inactive or the environment was too cold. Try using fresh yeast and keep the dough in a warm, draft-free spot to rise.