Name: Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1⅓ cups warm water; 2¼ tsp instant yeast; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¾ tsp salt; 3½ cups all purpose flour; cornmeal

Crafting your own pizza crust at home can be a delightful and rewarding experience. This recipe results in a flavorful and chewy base that’s perfect for your favorite toppings. From the subtle hint of olive oil to the satisfying crunch from the cornmeal, every bite is a testament to homemade goodness.

Photos of Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this pizza crust are quite common and probably already in your pantry. However, make sure you have instant yeast and cornmeal on hand. These might not be staples in every kitchen but are essential for achieving the perfect rise and texture in your crust.

Ingredients For Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe

warm water: Essential for activating the yeast and starting the dough process.

instant yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly and gives it a light and airy texture.

granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps it activate faster.

olive oil: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.

salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.

all purpose flour: The main structure of the crust.

cornmeal: Provides a slightly crunchy texture on the bottom of the crust.

One reader, Grant Taggart says:

This homemade pizza crust recipe is fantastic! The dough is easy to work with and rises beautifully. The crust turns out perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s now my go-to recipe for pizza nights. Highly recommend!

Grant Taggart

Techniques for Making Homemade Pizza Crust

How to knead dough: Kneading involves pressing and folding the dough with your hands to develop gluten, which gives the dough its structure and elasticity. How to let dough rise: Allowing dough to rise means letting it rest in a warm environment until it doubles in size, which helps develop flavor and texture. How to punch down dough: Punching down dough involves pressing down on the risen dough to release air bubbles, which helps create a more even texture. How to shape pizza dough: Shaping pizza dough involves flattening and stretching it into a disc, then creating a rim around the edges to hold the toppings. How to prevent dough from bubbling: Pushing dents into the surface of the dough with your fingers helps prevent large bubbles from forming during baking.

How To Make Homemade Pizza Crust

If you enjoy the pizza crust as much as the pizza toppings, this recipe is for you! Made with 7 simple ingredients to amp up your homemade pizzas.

Preparation: 2 hours 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 2 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1⅓cupswarm water,between 100 to 110 degrees F
2¼tspinstant yeast,(1 standard packet) such as Red Star Platinum
1tbspgranulated sugar
2tbspolive oil
¾tspsalt
3½cupsall purpose flour,spoon and leveled, plus more for hands and surface
cornmeal,for dusting the pan

Instructions

Whisk the warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar together in the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook or paddle attachment. Cover and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
Add the olive oil, salt, and flour. Beat on low speed for 2 minutes. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
With lightly floured hands, knead the dough for 3 to 4 minutes. The dough can be a little too heavy for a mixer to knead it so use the mixer on low speed instead.
After kneading, the dough should still feel a little soft. Poke it with a finger – if it slowly bounces back, your dough is ready to rise. If not, keep kneading.
Lightly grease a large bowl with oil– just use the same bowl you used for the dough. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat all sides in the oil. Cover the bowl with aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or a clean kitchen towel.
Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 60 to 90 minutes or until double in size.
Preheat oven to 475 degrees F. Allow it to heat for at least 15 to 20 minutes as you shape the pizza. Lightly grease baking sheet or pizza pan with olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with cornmeal.
When the dough is ready, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough in half.
On a lightly floured work surface using lightly floured hands or rolling pin, gently flatten the dough into a disc. Place on prepared pan and, using lightly floured hands, stretch and flatten the disc into a 12-inch circle.
Lift the edge of the dough up to create a lip around the edges. Simply pinch the edges up to create the rim. If using a pizza stone, place the dough directly on the baker’s peels dusted with cornmeal.
Cover dough lightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow to rest for a few minutes as you prepare your pizza toppings.
To prevent the filling from making your pizza crust soggy, brush the top lightly with olive oil. Using fingers, push dents into the surface of the dough to prevent bubbling. Top with toppings and bake for 12 to 15 minutes.
Slice hot pizza and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

If you don’t have a stand mixer, simply use a large mixing bowl and mix the dough with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula.
For the warm environment on a particularly cold day, heat oven to 150 degrees F. Turn the oven off, place the dough inside, and keep the door slightly ajar. This will be a warm environment for your dough to rise. After about 30 minutes, close the oven door to trap the air inside with the rising dough. When it’s doubled in size, remove from the oven.

Nutrition

Calories: 238.60kcal
Fat: 4.00g
Saturated Fat: 0.56g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.56g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.58g
Carbohydrates: 43.76g
Fiber: 1.78g
Sugar: 1.71g
Protein: 6.10g
Sodium: 221.34mg
Calcium: 9.91mg
Potassium: 69.37mg
Iron: 2.58mg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Pro Tip for Perfect Pizza Crust Every Time

When kneading the dough, use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself and give it a quarter turn. This method helps develop the gluten structure, resulting in a chewy and elastic pizza crust. If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour to your hands and the work surface, but be careful not to add too much as it can make the dough tough.

Time-Saving Tips for Homemade Pizza Crust

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This streamlines the process and ensures you have everything you need.

Use instant yeast: Instant yeast doesn't require proofing, saving you time during the dough preparation.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while the dough is rising to ensure it's ready when you need it.

Divide dough ahead: Split the dough into portions before the final rise to save time when shaping the pizza.

Prepare toppings while dough rises: Use the rising time to chop and organize your toppings, so they're ready to go when the dough is ready.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe

warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and softer texture to the dough.
instant yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast can be used but needs to be dissolved in water first and may take longer to rise.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a subtle sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile.
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a neutral-flavored alternative.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral content and flavor.
all purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can result in a chewier crust.
cornmeal - Substitute with semolina flour: Semolina flour can provide a similar texture and prevent sticking.

Presenting Your Homemade Pizza Crust

Use a pizza stone: Preheat a pizza stone in the oven to ensure a crispy and evenly cooked crust.
Shape the dough perfectly: Roll out the dough into a perfect 12-inch circle, ensuring an even thickness throughout for a uniform bake.
Create a beautiful rim: Pinch the edges of the dough to form a well-defined lip, giving the pizza a professional look and helping to contain the toppings.
Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush the top of the dough with olive oil to prevent sogginess and add a golden sheen.
Use high-quality toppings: Select premium ingredients like fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil to elevate the flavor profile.
Artfully arrange toppings: Place the toppings in a visually appealing manner, ensuring even distribution and a balanced look.
Bake to perfection: Cook the pizza at 475 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes, achieving a golden-brown crust and perfectly melted cheese.
Slice with precision: Use a sharp pizza cutter to slice the pizza into even pieces, ensuring clean cuts and an attractive presentation.
Serve immediately: Present the pizza hot, allowing the cheese to stretch enticingly with each slice.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a final touch of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Essential Tools for Making Pizza Crust at Home

Stand mixer: Used to mix the dough ingredients together efficiently, especially with the dough hook or paddle attachment.
Dough hook: An attachment for the stand mixer that helps knead the dough.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to mix and allow the dough to rise.
Whisk: Used to combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the water and flour.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the yeast, sugar, salt, and olive oil.
Plastic wrap: To cover the dough while it rises.
Rolling pin: Helps to flatten the dough into a disc.
Baking sheet: A flat sheet to bake the pizza on.
Pizza pan: An alternative to the baking sheet, specifically designed for pizza.
Pizza stone: Provides a crispier crust when baking the pizza.
Baker’s peel: Used to transfer the pizza dough onto the pizza stone.
Kitchen towel: Can be used to cover the dough while it rests.
Olive oil brush: To brush olive oil on the dough to prevent sogginess.
Knife: To slice the pizza once it is baked.
Cornmeal: Sprinkled on the baking sheet or pizza stone to prevent sticking.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Pizza Crust

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for the homemade pizza crust recipe:

If you don't plan to use the pizza dough right away, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag before refrigerating.
To freeze the pizza dough, follow these steps:
1. After the dough has risen and been punched down, divide it into individual portions for each pizza you plan to make.
2. Shape each portion into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
3. Place the wrapped dough balls into a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and amount of dough for future reference.
5. Freeze the pizza dough for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to use the frozen pizza dough, follow these steps:
1. Remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
2. Once thawed, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and stretching it into your desired pizza shape.
3. Proceed with adding your favorite pizza toppings and baking the pizza according to the recipe instructions.
If you have any leftover baked pizza, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.

How To Reheat Leftover Pizza Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method helps restore the crispiness of the crust while evenly heating the toppings.
For a quicker option, use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the leftover pizza slices in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the cheese is melted. The lid helps trap the heat, ensuring the toppings are warmed through.
If you have a toaster oven, it's an excellent choice for reheating pizza. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover slices on the toaster oven tray and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method is perfect for reheating small amounts of pizza quickly.
For a crispy crust without using an oven, try reheating your pizza in a waffle iron. Preheat the waffle iron and place the leftover slice inside. Close the waffle iron and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This unconventional method adds a unique texture to your reheated pizza.
If you want to reheat your pizza without drying it out, use the microwave with a twist. Place the leftover slice on a microwave-safe plate and add a mug of water beside it. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, or until the pizza is heated through. The water helps create steam, preventing the pizza from becoming soggy or dry.

Fascinating Facts About Pizza Crust

A fun fact about this pizza crust recipe is that the cornmeal sprinkled on the baking sheet or pizza pan not only prevents the dough from sticking but also adds a slight crunch to the crust.

Is Making Pizza Crust at Home Cost-Effective?

Creating a homemade pizza crust is quite cost-effective. The primary ingredients like flour, yeast, and olive oil are pantry staples and relatively inexpensive. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $3-$5, depending on the quality of ingredients. This recipe not only saves money compared to ordering out but also allows for customization with various toppings. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is Homemade Pizza Crust Healthy or Unhealthy?

The homemade pizza crust recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to its high carbohydrate content from the all-purpose flour and added sugar. The recipe also includes olive oil, which is a healthier fat option, but the overall calorie count of the crust alone could be quite high, especially if consumed in large quantities.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or other nutrient-dense alternatives like almond flour or chickpea flour to increase fiber content and add more vitamins and minerals
Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or omit it entirely, as the yeast will still activate with the warm water
Experiment with using a smaller amount of olive oil or opt for a lower-calorie cooking spray to reduce the overall fat content
Top the pizza with a variety of colorful vegetables to increase the nutrient density of the meal and add fiber, which can help with satiety and digestion
Practice portion control by enjoying smaller slices and pairing the pizza with a side salad or other nutrient-rich sides to create a more balanced meal

Editor's Take on This Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe

This homemade pizza crust recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The use of instant yeast and warm water ensures a quick rise, while the olive oil adds a pleasant richness to the dough. The instructions for kneading and rising are clear, and the suggestion to brush the crust with olive oil before adding toppings is a great tip to prevent sogginess. Preheating the oven to a high temperature ensures a crispy crust. Overall, this recipe promises a delicious and satisfying homemade pizza experience.

Enhance Your Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Caprese Salad: Imagine a vibrant Caprese Salad on the side, where juicy tomatoes meet creamy mozzarella and fresh basil. Drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze to elevate the flavors, making each bite a refreshing complement to your homemade pizza.

Garlic Parmesan Knots: Picture a basket of Garlic Parmesan Knots, warm and fragrant, ready to be dipped into a rich marinara sauce. These golden, buttery knots, sprinkled with parmesan and parsley, are the perfect savory side to your pizza feast.

Roasted Veggie Platter: Envision a colorful Roasted Veggie Platter, featuring an array of bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes. Lightly seasoned and roasted to perfection, these veggies add a healthy and flavorful balance to your meal.

Minestrone Soup: Consider a hearty bowl of Minestrone Soup, brimming with beans, pasta, and a medley of seasonal vegetables. This comforting soup, with its rich tomato broth, serves as a warm and nourishing starter to your pizza night.

Tiramisu: For a sweet finish, indulge in a classic Tiramisu. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone come together in this decadent Italian dessert, offering a delightful end to your homemade pizza experience.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Pizza Crust

Garlic Knots: Transform your pizza dough into delightful garlic knots. These little bundles of joy are brushed with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and parsley, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Calzone: Take your homemade pizza crust and fold it into a calzone. Stuff it with your favorite cheeses, meats, and vegetables. This Italian turnover is a meal in itself, offering a delightful surprise with every bite.

Focaccia Bread: Elevate your baking game with focaccia bread. This flat oven-baked Italian bread is similar to pizza dough but is topped with herbs, olive oil, and sometimes vegetables. It's perfect for dipping in soups or serving as a side with your main course.

Stromboli: Roll up your pizza dough into a stromboli. This savory pastry is filled with cheese, meats, and vegetables, then baked until crispy. It's a great way to enjoy all the flavors of pizza in a convenient, handheld form.

Pizza Rolls: Turn your pizza dough into bite-sized pizza rolls. Fill them with cheese, pepperoni, and sauce, then roll them up and bake. These are perfect for parties, snacks, or even a fun dinner option.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Homemade Pizza Crust

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. These delightful bites are baked until golden and bubbly, offering a perfect balance of earthy and cheesy flavors. The mushrooms provide a tender base that complements the rich filling, making them an irresistible starter for any meal.

Bruschetta: Picture crispy baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of balsamic glaze, these bites burst with freshness and flavor. The crunchy bread pairs perfectly with the juicy, herb-infused topping, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent dessert features a warm, molten chocolate core that oozes out with each bite. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. For an added touch, garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The contrast of the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience that will leave your guests craving more.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with a classic Tiramisu. This elegant dessert layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a creamy mascarpone mixture, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Dust the top with cocoa powder for a sophisticated finish. For a modern twist, consider adding a hint of liqueur or incorporating seasonal fruits. The light and airy texture of the mascarpone, combined with the rich coffee flavor, makes this dessert a perfect ending to any meal.

Why trust this Homemade Pizza Crust Recipe:

This homemade pizza crust recipe is crafted with care and precision, ensuring a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The use of instant yeast guarantees a quick rise, while olive oil adds a rich, authentic taste. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients like all-purpose flour and cornmeal, this recipe is accessible to everyone. Trust in the simplicity and quality of this method to deliver a delicious, restaurant-quality pizza crust right from your own kitchen.

Want to share your own pizza crust recipe or discuss tips and techniques for making the perfect homemade pizza crust? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast is active, it should start to foam and bubble after you mix it with warm water and sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes. If you don't see any activity, your yeast might be dead, and you'll need to start over with fresh yeast.

Can I make this dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After the dough has risen, you can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before you start shaping it into a pizza.

What if I don't have a stand mixer?

No worries! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It might take a bit more elbow grease, but it works just as well. Just follow the same steps, mixing the ingredients in a large bowl and then kneading on a floured surface.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! After the dough has risen, you can divide it into portions, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. When you're ready to use it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bring it to room temperature before shaping.

How do I get a crispy crust?

For a crispy crust, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 475 degrees F. Using a pizza stone can also help achieve that crispy texture. Additionally, brushing the dough with olive oil before adding toppings can help prevent sogginess.