Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Homemade Pizza Hut-Inspired Dough

Homemade Pizza Hut-Inspired Dough


  • Author: Alyssa

Description

Make Homemade Pizza Hut-Inspired Dough—soft, chewy, and crispy, perfect for creating your favorite pizza right at home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast: This is essential for fermentation, making the crust rise and develop that delightful texture.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar: Helps to activate the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness to the dough.
  • ¾ cup warm water (approximately 110°F/43°C): This is crucial for activating the yeast effectively.
  • 2 ½ to 3 cups all-purpose flour: The main component of the crust; the high gluten content provides great chewiness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the gluten structure.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds flavor and richness to the dough, creating a tender texture.

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of warm water with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ to 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
  3. Add the yeast mixture: Once the yeast has activated, pour the yeast mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Also, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil at this point.
  4. Knead the dough: Combine the ingredients using a wooden spoon until they start to form a shaggy dough. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour one tablespoon at a time.
  5. First rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Shape the crust: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a circle or rectangle, depending on your pizza type. Aim for approximately ½ inch thickness for a fluffy crust.
  7. Pre-bake: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Transfer the shaped dough onto a pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake the crust for about 5-7 minutes, until it begins to lightly brown.
  8. Add toppings: Remove the partially baked crust, add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings, then return it to the oven.
  9. Final bake: Bake the pizza for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.