Classic Pizza Dough

Here’s a classic pizza dough recipe that’s simple to make and perfect for your pizza oven:

Classic Pizza Dough Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (around 110°F or 43°C)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
  • 2 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast:

    • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir it together and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. If the mixture doesn't foam, the yeast might be expired, and you'll need to try again with fresh yeast.

  2. Make the Dough:

    • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
    • Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough begins to come together. Once it does, use your hands to knead it into a ball.

  3. Knead the Dough:

    • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. You can add small amounts of flour if it feels too sticky, but don’t overdo it.

  4. Let the Dough Rise:

    • Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside. Turn it around in the bowl so it’s coated with oil, then cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
    • Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

  5. Shape the Dough:

    • After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into two equal portions for two medium-sized pizzas, or keep it whole for a larger pizza.
    • Roll each portion into a ball and let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
    • On a floured surface, use your hands to stretch or roll the dough out into your desired pizza shape and thickness.

  6. Preheat the Pizza Oven:

    • Preheat your pizza oven to about 800°F (425°C) or the highest temperature it allows.

  7. Assemble Your Pizza:

    • Transfer the dough to your pizza peel or baking stone, add your favourite toppings, and bake for 1-2 minutes in the pizza oven, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

Tips:

  • If you’re not using the dough immediately, you can store it in the fridge after the first rise. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and let it chill for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before using.
  • For a more flavourful dough, you can let it rise slowly in the fridge for 24-48 hours (this is called a cold fermentation method).

This dough gives you a soft, chewy interior with a crispy crust, perfect for any pizza topping you choose.