Description
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the versatility and deliciousness of homemade pizza. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a classic Margherita or explore exciting new toppings, crafting your pizza from scratch brings an entirely different experience. Making homemade pizza allows you to control every aspect, from the dough texture to the combination of flavors. The beauty of creating pizza at home is not only the satisfaction of knowing it’s fresh, but also the ability to customize it exactly how you want it.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
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3½–4 cups (420–480g) all-purpose or bread flour
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1½ cups (360ml) warm water (110°F/43°C)
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2¼ tsp (7g) active dry yeast
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1 tsp granulated sugar (to activate yeast)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1½ tsp salt
Instructions
To begin, activate the yeast. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes, allowing the yeast to foam up. This step is essential to ensure the yeast is alive and active, which will help the dough rise properly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough begins to form. Once it starts to come together, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
For those who prefer a no-knead option, simply mix the ingredients together, cover the dough, and let it rise for 18–24 hours in the refrigerator. This slow rise gives the dough a more complex flavor and texture.
Coat the dough ball with a little olive oil to prevent it from drying out. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion into a 12-inch circle, about ¼-inch thick. Let the dough rest for 15–30 minutes to allow it to relax and rise slightly before baking.
Place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet in the oven. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes. This high heat is key to achieving that crispy yet tender crust.
Once the dough has rested, it’s time to assemble your pizza. Spread your favorite pizza sauce on the dough, sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, and add your choice of toppings. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
Notes
Enjoy your homemade pizza with a crispy crust and customizable toppings! Feel free to get creative with your choices and add your favorite ingredients. For the best results, serve immediately while the cheese is melted and the crust is warm. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a delicious meal anytime!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Ultimate Homemade Pizza Recipe