There’s nothing quite like homemade dough to elevate your baking and cooking experience. Whether you’re making a golden, flaky pie crust for a comforting dessert or crafting the perfect pizza dough for a family dinner, mastering these basics will change the way you cook forever.
Imagine pulling a fresh, homemade pie from the oven, its buttery crust crisp and golden. Or picture a bubbling pizza with a chewy, flavorful crust that rivals your favorite pizzeria. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create magic in your own kitchen.
Baking from scratch is more than just a process—it’s an act of love. The time and care you put into making your own dough bring out flavors and textures that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Plus, the joy of rolling out dough, shaping it with your hands, and watching it transform in the oven is an experience worth savoring.
Ready to take your homemade baking skills to the next level? Let’s dive into these foolproof recipes for the best pie crust and pizza dough you’ve ever made!
Homemade Pie Crust
This buttery, flaky pie crust is perfect for sweet or savory pies. The recipe yields two crusts.
Ingredients
– 2 1/2 cups flour
– 1 cup salted butter, frozen and grated
– 6 tablespoons cold water
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
1. Begin by freezing the butter for a few minutes. Once frozen, grate it into fine pieces.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated butter with the flour and sugar.
3. Gradually add the cold water, mixing as you go until a dough begins to form.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up.
5. After the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion out on a floured surface until it’s large enough to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
6. Gently place the dough into the pie pan, trimming any excess edges. Add your favorite pie filling and bake according to the recipe for your specific pie. Enjoy the flaky, buttery crust!
Homemade Pizza Dough
This simple pizza dough recipe creates a delicious, chewy crust perfect for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 3/4 cup warm water
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
3. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients, then pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a spoon until a dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
6. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. If you prefer a thin crust, divide the dough into two portions. For a thicker crust, use the whole dough.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, then transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) and let the dough rest for 15 minutes before adding your favorite pizza toppings.
9. Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love These Recipes
Not only are these recipes simple and easy to follow, but they also allow for endless customization. For the pie crust, you can choose any filling you love, whether it’s a classic apple pie, a savory chicken pot pie, or something uniquely your own. For the pizza dough, the possibilities are just as varied—top your pizza with fresh vegetables, meats, cheeses, or even a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs.
These homemade dough recipes are versatile, and they bring a sense of accomplishment each time you bake. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, these dishes will make your meals feel extra special.
So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands a little floury, and experience the joy of making dough from scratch! You won’t regret it.
Homemade Pie Crust & Pizza Dough
Equipment
- GraterMixing bowlsRolling pin9-inch pie panBaking sheetParchment paper
Ingredients
- Homemade Pie Crust 2 1/2 cups flour1 cup salted butter, frozen and grated6 tablespoons cold water1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Homemade Pizza Dough 1 teaspoon yeast1 teaspoon sugar3/4 cup warm water2 cups all-purpose flour2 tablespoons olive oil1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- For the Pie Crust:Freeze the butter for a few minutes, then grate it into small pieces.In a mixing bowl, combine the grated butter with flour and sugar.Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms.Shape the dough into a ball and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.Divide dough into two portions, roll each out on a floured surface, and place in a 9-inch pie pan.Add your favorite pie filling and bake as directed for the pie.For the Pizza Dough:Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.Combine flour and salt in a large bowl.Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until dough forms.Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about an hour until doubled in size.Punch down the dough, divide if necessary, and roll out to desired thickness.Transfer dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet and let rest for 15 minutes.Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C), add toppings, and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- For a thicker pizza crust, use all of the dough; for a thinner crust, divide it in half.
- The pie crust dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Feel free to adjust the fillings and toppings based on your preference.
