This Easy Homemade Pizza Dough recipe is perfect for making a crisp yet chewy crust with minimal effort.

Using just a handful of pantry staples—yeast, warm water, bread flour, olive oil, sugar, and salt—you can create a flavorful dough that’s ideal for your favorite pizza toppings.
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Why You’ll Love Making It
- Beginner-Friendly & Foolproof – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a great dough for beginners.
- Perfectly Chewy & Crispy – Bread flour gives the dough the ideal texture for homemade pizza.
- Customizable Thickness – Roll it out thin for a crispy crust or leave it thicker for a soft, chewy bite.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be stored in the fridge or freezer for future pizza nights.
Ingredients
- 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast – Helps the dough rise and develop a light, airy texture.
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C) – Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
- 2 cups bread flour, plus more for dusting – Provides structure and chewiness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Adds moisture and enhances flavor.
- 2 teaspoons white sugar – Feeds the yeast and helps the crust brown.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the bread flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour.
Step 4: Let It Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Step 6: Use as Desired
Your dough is now ready to be topped and baked into your favorite homemade pizza!
FAQs
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes! Store the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but bread flour gives a chewier texture. If using all-purpose flour, the crust may be slightly softer.