Easy Homemade Pizza Dough

By Rosa Marinetti | Prep: 15 min | Rise: 1 hr | Makes: 2 pizzas

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step activates the yeast and is crucial for a good rise.

Add the olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when poked with a finger.

Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Tips for Perfect Pizza

Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can reach — ideally 500°F or higher. A pizza stone or inverted baking sheet placed in the oven during preheating will give you a crispier crust. Stretch the dough by hand rather than using a rolling pin for a more authentic texture.

This dough freezes beautifully. After the first rise, divide, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.