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Classic Pizza Dough Recipe

This classic pizza dough recipe offers a perfect balance of chewiness and crispness, serving as an ideal base for your favorite pizza toppings. It's easy to make and can be adapted for various pizza styles.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Proofing Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 17 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Dough scraper (optional)
  • Rolling pin (optional)
  • Pizza stone or baking sheet
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups 500g all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 packet 7g dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups 355ml warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil plus extra for greasing

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
  • In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  • Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
  • Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well.
  • Gradually mix the ingredients together until a dough begins to form.
  • Knead the Dough:
  • Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. If it's too dry, add a bit more water.
  • First Proofing:
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil.
  • Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  • Punch Down and Shape:
  • Once the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release air bubbles.
  • Divide the dough into 2 or 4 equal parts, depending on the size of pizzas you want.
  • Shape each part into a ball, then flatten into a disk. Let them rest for a few minutes before stretching out into pizza bases.
  • Final Proofing:
  • After shaping, let the dough rest for another 10-15 minutes before adding toppings.
  • Bake:
  • Preheat your oven to its highest setting, ideally around 475°F (245°C).
  • Add your favorite toppings to the stretched dough.
  • Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  • Note: For an even better flavor, try the overnight fermentation method by placing the kneaded dough in the refrigerator for 24-72 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.

Notes

  • For a thinner crust, divide the dough into more pieces.
  • The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
  • Experiment with different flour types like whole wheat for a healthier option.
  • Overnight fermentation in the refrigerator enhances the flavor.
Keyword Classic Pizza Dough Recipe