The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Pizza With The Easiest Crust Recipe

Nothing compares to the satisfaction of making your own homemade pizza from scratch. With our simplest crust recipe, you’ll discover that creating restaurant-quality pizza at home is not only achievable but incredibly rewarding. This rustic pizza dough requires minimal ingredients and basic techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Using active dry yeast, this dough comes together quickly and develops a wonderful flavor profile that’s perfect for any topping combination you can imagine. Whether you’re craving a classic margherita, a veggie-packed masterpiece, or a simple cheese pizza, this versatile dough forms the perfect foundation.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Cornmeal or additional flour for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This indicates that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each into a ball, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare for Toppings

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out each dough ball into your desired pizza shape on a cornmeal-dusted surface or baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake

Add your favorite toppings and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Expert Tips

• Water Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to ensure your water is between 110-115°F. Too hot will kill the yeast, too cold will delay activation.
• Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to double in size for the best texture and flavor development.
• Preheat Your Oven: A hot oven creates the beautiful crust and ensures even cooking.
• Experiment with Flours: Substitute up to 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier crust.
• Freeze for Later: This dough freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in equal amounts. However, you may skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. You can test it by gently pressing two fingers into the dough – if the indentation remains, it’s ready.

Can I make this dough gluten-free?

This recipe is designed for traditional wheat flour. For gluten-free options, you’ll need to use a specialized gluten-free flour blend and possibly add xanthan gum.

Why is my dough sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency. Humidity and flour brand can affect the texture.

The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Pizza With The Easiest Crust Recipe

This recipe provides a simple yet delicious homemade pizza crust that requires minimal ingredients and basic techniques. Perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers, it creates a versatile foundation for any pizza topping combination.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Calories: 280

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Cornmeal or additional flour for dusting

Method

 

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.
3. Pour the activated yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each into a ball, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out each dough ball into your desired pizza shape on a cornmeal-dusted surface or baking sheet.
8. Add your favorite toppings and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Notes

Water temperature matters: Use a thermometer to ensure your water is between 110-115°F. Don’t rush the rise: Allow the dough to double in size for the best texture and flavor development. Preheat your oven: A hot oven creates the beautiful crust and ensures even cooking.