The Perfect Pizza Dough Ingredients for Homemade Pizza Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast, the magic ingredient that makes dough rise
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions.
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (110°F), active yeast, and a hint of sugar to activate the yeast and create a starter culture. Let it sit for 5 minutes, until frothy and bubbly, activating the yeast for fermentation.
- Mix the Dough: Incorporate the flour, salt, and olive oil into the yeast mixture, stirring until a consistent, workable dough is achieved. Continue stirring until the ingredients transform into a smooth, harmonious dough.
- Knead the Dough: Move the dough to a floured surface and knead for 7-10 minutes, until it reaches a state of smooth, elastic perfection.
- Let it Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm environment for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has increased in volume by 100%.
- Pre-bake the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out to your desired thickness (medium-thick works best for this recipe). Pre-bake the dough for about 5 minutes at 450°F (230°C). This prevents the pizza from becoming soggy once you add the toppings.