Are you tired of disappointing store-bought pizza dough? Or maybe you’re facing a pizza topping debate in your household, just like in the original post from “The Noshery”? Whether it’s a disagreement over veggies versus all-meat toppings, one thing is certain: a fantastic pizza starts with a truly great crust. This Pioneer Woman Pizza Dough recipe is a game-changer, promising a delicious, crispy, and practically foolproof base for all your pizza creations. Plus, it makes enough for two crusts, so you can enjoy one now and freeze one for a future pizza night! Say goodbye to store-bought dough forever – once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why.
Why This Pioneer Woman Pizza Dough Recipe Works
This recipe, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond, isn’t just another pizza dough recipe. It’s designed for home cooks who want amazing results without complicated techniques. Forget fancy dough tossing – this recipe focuses on simple steps and readily available ingredients to create a crust that is both crispy and satisfyingly chewy. It’s perfect for family pizza nights, weekend gatherings, or anytime you crave that authentic homemade pizza taste. The recipe’s beauty lies in its simplicity and the consistent, delicious results it delivers every time. It’s also incredibly convenient; making two crusts at once means you’re always prepared for a spontaneous pizza craving.
Pioneer Woman Pizza Dough Recipe – Step-by-Step
Ready to get started? Here’s how to make the Pioneer Woman’s incredible pizza dough:
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon Active Dry or Instant Yeast
- 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (not lukewarm, about 105-115°F)
- 4 cups All-purpose Flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil, plus extra for coating
Instructions:
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Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm water. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial to ensure your yeast is active and will make the dough rise properly.
Activating yeast for Pioneer Woman pizza dough in warm water
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and kosher salt.
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Add Olive Oil: If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook. With the mixer running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until it’s fully incorporated into the flour. If mixing by hand, make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the olive oil, mixing with your hands or a wooden spoon until combined.
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Add Yeast Mixture: Pour the foamy yeast and water mixture into the flour and olive oil mixture. Mix on low speed (or by hand) until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
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Knead the Dough: If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on low to medium speed for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
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First Rise: Lightly coat a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with a moist kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Pioneer Woman pizza dough rising in a bowl covered with a kitchen towel
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Let it Rise: Set the bowl in a warm place and let the dough rise for 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The rising time will depend on the warmth of your room.
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Divide the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough in half. Now you can use one half immediately and freeze the other for later use.
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Dough: When you’re ready to bake your pizza, preheat your oven to a high temperature, ideally 500°F (260°C). Lightly drizzle olive oil on a pizza pan or rimmed baking sheet.
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Stretch the Dough: Take one portion of the dough and use your hands to stretch it to your desired shape and thickness. Press the dough onto the prepared pan.
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Add Toppings and Bake: Drizzle the dough with a little more olive oil and add your favorite pizza toppings. For a flavor boost, consider using garlic and Italian seasoning as a base instead of traditional tomato sauce, as suggested in the original post. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are cooked to your liking.
Delicious homemade pizza made with Pioneer Woman pizza dough, topped with bacon, sausage, tomatoes, and mozzarella
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Enjoy! Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Get ready to enjoy a truly fantastic homemade pizza with a perfectly crispy crust!
Crispy golden crust of Pioneer Woman's homemade pizza dough
Tips for Perfect Pioneer Woman Pizza Dough
- Water Temperature is Key: Make sure the water is warm enough to activate the yeast but not too hot, which can kill it. 105-115°F is the sweet spot.
- Don’t Over-Knead: Kneading develops gluten, which gives the dough its structure. However, over-kneading can make the dough tough. Knead until it’s smooth and elastic, but not excessively.
- Warm Place for Rising: A warm environment helps the yeast work its magic. A slightly warm oven (turned off!), a sunny spot, or even the top of your refrigerator can work well.
- Stretching the Dough: Gently stretch the dough instead of rolling it out with a rolling pin. This helps maintain air bubbles in the dough, resulting in a lighter crust.
- High Baking Temperature: Baking at a high temperature is essential for achieving a crispy crust. Preheat your oven thoroughly and use a pizza stone or baking steel if you have one for even better results.
- Freezing Dough: To freeze the second dough ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Enjoy Homemade Pizza Night!
With this Pioneer Woman pizza dough recipe, you’re well on your way to creating pizza night perfection at home. Whether you prefer classic pepperoni or gourmet veggie toppings, this crust will elevate your homemade pizza game. It’s easy to make, yields delicious results, and is sure to become a staple recipe in your kitchen. So gather your favorite toppings, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade pizza you’ve ever tasted!
