Homemade Soft Chewy Dough

A soft, chewy, and flavorful pizza dough perfect for family pizza nights. This recipe yields a versatile base for any topping combination and bakes up golden and delicious every time.

This dough recipe has been my go-to for family pizza nights; everyone loves how fresh and homemade it tastes.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients: 4 cups (500 g) bread flour (plus more for dusting), 2¼ tsp (7 g) active dry yeast (1 packet), 1½ tsp fine sea salt, 1 tsp sugar
• Wet Ingredients: 1½ cups (360 ml) warm water (approx. 110°F/43°C), 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil

Instructions

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Step 1:

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2:

Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 3:

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (Add a little extra flour if sticky.)

Step 4:

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.

Step 5:

Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6:

Punch down the dough and divide into 2 equal portions for large pizzas (or more for smaller pizzas).

Step 7:

Shape each portion into a ball. Rest for 10–15 minutes, covered.

Step 8:

Roll out each dough ball on a floured surface to your desired thickness.

Step 9:

Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone. Top as desired and bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

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Get hot or cold water instantly for cooking, tea, coffee, and quick meal prep.

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Making this dough brings back fond memories of family nights gathered around the table enjoying fresh pizza together.

Required Tools

Large mixing bowl, Wooden spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Kitchen scale (optional but recommended), Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, Rolling pin, Baking sheet or pizza stone

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten). May contain traces of soy or nuts depending on flour brand& check labels if concerned.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 260, Total Fat: 3.5 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 7 g per serving (based on 6 servings, dough only)

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Transfer liquids, oils, and dry ingredients cleanly into bottles and jars while cooking or baking.

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This pizza dough recipe guarantees a delicious and rewarding experience every time you bake it at home.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should the dough rise?

Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, until it doubles in size, ensuring a light and airy texture.

→ Can whole wheat flour be used in the dough?

Yes, substituting up to 1 cup of whole wheat flour adds flavor and fiber without compromising the dough’s structure significantly.

→ What is the best baking temperature for this dough?

Bake at 475°F (245°C) for 12 to 15 minutes to achieve a golden, crisp crust with a soft interior.

→ Is it necessary to let the dough rest after shaping?

Resting the shaped dough for 10 to 15 minutes relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out and preventing shrinkage during baking.

→ Can the dough be prepared ahead and stored?

Yes, after the first rise, extra dough portions can be frozen and thawed overnight in the refrigerator for later use.