Easy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe

There’s something undeniably satisfying about crafting your own pizza from scratch. The scent of dough rising in the kitchen, the anticipation of pulling a perfectly baked pizza out of the oven, and the joy of sharing it with friends and family make homemade pizza a cherished culinary experience. Whether it's a casual Friday night dinner or a special occasion, making pizza allows you to express your creativity and cater to your taste buds.

Discover the joy of creating your own pizza with this simple and fun homemade pizza dough recipe. Perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, this guide walks you through the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to achieve a light, fluffy crust. From understanding the role of flour and yeast to kneading techniques and baking tips, you'll learn to craft delicious pizzas that are sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience that's perfect for any occasion!

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Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

¾ cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)

1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

Cornmeal (for dusting)

Instructions

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt together until evenly combined.

Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the warm water and olive oil into the dry ingredient mix. Use a wooden spoon to stir until a shaggy dough begins to form.

Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if the dough is too sticky.

First Rise: Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the kneaded dough inside the bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Preheat Oven: About 15 minutes before the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, shape the dough into your desired pizza shape (round or rectangular). Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch it out to about 12 inches in diameter.

Prepare for Toppings: Sprinkle a baking sheet or pizza peel with cornmeal and transfer your shaped dough to the surface. Add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Cool & Enjoy: Once out of the oven, let your pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade pizza!

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins | Servings: 2 (12” pizzas)