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Fluffy Homemade Pizza Dough Recipe Easy Steps for Perfect Pies

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This fluffy homemade pizza dough recipe is forgiving, simple, and results in a soft, pillowy base with a classic crisp edge. Perfect for quick and delicious homemade pizzas.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
  • 1 ½ cups (355ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
  • 1 ½ tsp (9g) salt
  • Optional: ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Optional: 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (1 ½ cups / 355ml) with sugar (1 tbsp / 12g) and sprinkle the active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp / 7g) on top. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
  2. Mix the dough: Add olive oil (2 tbsp / 30ml), salt (1 ½ tsp / 9g), and optional garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Gradually stir in the flour (3 ½ cups / 440g), about 1 cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and knead the dough by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
  4. First rise: Lightly oil the mixing bowl and place the dough inside, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the dough: Punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Divide into two balls or keep whole. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  6. Stretch or roll out: On a floured surface, stretch or roll the dough to desired thickness.
  7. Add toppings and bake: Transfer dough to a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone. Add toppings and bake in a preheated 475°F (245°C) oven for 12–15 minutes until crust is golden and toppings bubbly.

Notes

Do not rush the rise; yeast needs time to create air pockets. Use warm water about 110°F (43°C) to activate yeast properly. Knead long enough for gluten development. Let dough rest after shaping to relax gluten. Preheat oven and baking surface for a crispy bottom. Use a little olive oil on crust edges for golden color and flavor.

Nutrition

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