Perfect Every Time Pizza Or Calzone Dough Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
• STEP 2.Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour and mix until a dough forms.
• STEP 3.Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• STEP 4.Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
• STEP 5.Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into desired portions for pizzas or calzones.
• STEP 6.Roll out the dough into your desired shape and thickness. Add your favorite toppings and bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
• STEP 7.Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve hot.
• STEP 8.For storage, wrap the cooled dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.
• STEP 9.To serve, reheat the refrigerated dough in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm. Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Cooking Tips

• Using warm water helps activate the yeast faster.
• Kneading the dough well develops gluten, resulting in a better texture.
• Letting the dough rise in a warm place helps it to double in size faster.
• Punching down the dough after rising removes excess air and prevents large air bubbles in the crust.
• Preheating the oven ensures a crispy crust.
• You can customize the dough by adding herbs or spices to the flour mixture for extra flavor.

Storage and Serving

• Store the dough in an airtight container or plastic bag to prevent it from drying out.
• When serving, you can brush the crust with garlic butter or olive oil for added flavor.
• Serve the pizza or calzones with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
• Leftover pizza or calzones can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.