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Basic Homemade Dough

This versatile homemade dough serves as a perfect base for pizzas, pastries, breadsticks, and more. Easy to make with common ingredients, it yields a soft yet sturdy texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Base
Cuisine: Various
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water about 110°F
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
  • Baking sheet or pizza stone

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Stir in the salt, then slowly add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until integrated.
  3. Use a wooden spoon to mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes to develop gluten.
  5. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough to release air, then divide into portions and shape as desired.
  7. Optionally, let the shaped dough rise again for 30 minutes before baking.

Notes

Ensure proper measuring of flour to avoid dough that is too dry or sticky. Use a kitchen thermometer to check water temperature for optimal yeast activation.