Pizza Hut-Style Dough Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 2 pizza crusts)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
2 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1 tbsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional, for flavor twist)
Instructions
1. Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy (this means the yeast is activated!).
2. Make the dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and optional garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil.
Stir with a spoon until a dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little extra flour (a tablespoon at a time).
3. Knead the dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour as needed to prevent sticking.
Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
4. Let the dough rise:
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
Let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the dough:
Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface.
Divide the dough into two equal pieces for two medium pizzas or leave it whole for one large pizza.
Roll each piece into a circle (or your preferred shape) with a rolling pin or stretch it by hand. You can also use a pizza pan or stone if you have one.
6. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) while you prepare the toppings.
7. Assemble and bake:
Place the dough on your prepared pizza pan or stone, then add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Tips for Pizza Hut-Style Dough:
Extra fluffy crust: For an even fluffier crust, let the dough rise for an extra 30 minutes after shaping the pizzas.
Crust edge: Brush the edges of the dough with a little garlic butter or olive oil before baking for that signature golden, slightly crispy edge.
Toppings: Load it up with your favorite toppings, like pepperoni, veggies, or extra cheese—Pizza Hut style!
You can also freeze any leftover dough for later use. Just wrap it tightly in plastic and store it in the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight when you're ready to use it. Enjoy your pizza night!