Unlock the secret to Pizza Hut’s iconic crust with this homemade dough recipe. Follow these simple instructions to recreate that perfect combination of chewiness and crispiness right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Add the olive oil. Mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven during preheating.
- Punch down the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough in half for two pizzas or leave it whole for a thicker crust.
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness. If you’re using a pizza stone, transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or inverted baking sheet dusted with cornmeal.
- Add toppings: Add your favorite Pizza Hut-style toppings, sauce, cheese, and any other desired ingredients.
- Bake: If using a pizza stone, carefully transfer the pizza onto the preheated stone in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Enjoy: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve and savor the homemade Pizza Hut experience!
Tips and Quick Process
- For a thicker crust, let the dough rise a bit longer during the first rise.
- Experiment with different toppings to customize your Pizza Hut masterpiece.
- If you don’t have a pizza stone, a baking sheet or pizza pan will work, but preheat it in the oven before placing the pizza on it for a crispier crust.
- Consider brushing the crust with garlic butter or olive oil for an extra touch of flavor.
