Master the art of homemade Italian cuisine with this versatile and foolproof Pizza Dough for Calzones or Pizza recipe. Crafted with just seven pantry staples—including all-purpose flour, olive oil, and active dry yeast—this dough transforms into the perfect base for your culinary creations. Whether you're craving a golden, crispy pizza crust or hearty, chewy calzones, this recipe delivers exceptional results every time. With minimal prep and a straightforward kneading process, the dough rises to pillowy perfection in just 1-1.5 hours. Plus, a dusting of optional cornmeal adds a rustic touch and prevents sticking during baking. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gourmet pizza nights, this recipe is your go-to for customizable, crowd-pleasing meals.
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy (this indicates the yeast is activated).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix well using a fork or a whisk.
Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Once risen, punch the dough down to release air. Transfer it back onto a lightly floured surface.
If making calzones, divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions and roll each into a circle. For a pizza, use the entire ball of dough or divide it for multiple pizzas, depending on your desired size.
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, ensure it preheats in the oven for at least 30 minutes.
For a pizza, transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or pizza peel dusted with cornmeal (to prevent sticking). Add your favorite toppings and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp.
For calzones, fill half of each dough circle with your desired fillings, fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and seal the edges tightly. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Calories |
2108 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 33.3 g | 43% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.1 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3558 mg | 155% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 389.3 g | 142% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.6 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.5 g | ||
| Protein | 53.4 g | 107% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 68 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 23.1 mg | 128% | |
| Potassium | 679 mg | 14% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.