Easy Homemade Pizza Base Recipe
By Food by Shalini
Making a soft and delicious pizza base at home is easier than you think! This simple recipe gives you a light, fluffy, and crispy pizza crust that’s perfect for homemade pizzas.
Recipe Information
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 1½–2 hours
- Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: About 2½ hours
- Servings: 2 Medium Pizza Bases
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (Maida)
- 1 tsp instant dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or any cooking oil)
- ¾ cup lukewarm water (as needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl, combine:
- Lukewarm water
- Sugar
- Yeast
Mix well and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Note: If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the flour.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix:
- Flour
- Salt
Add:
- Activated yeast mixture
- Olive oil
Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes soft, smooth, and slightly elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Grease the dough lightly with oil.
Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
Let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Pizza Base
Punch down the dough gently.
Divide it into 2 equal portions.
Roll each into a circle about 8–10 inches wide and approximately ½ cm thick.
Prick the surface with a fork to prevent large bubbles.
Step 5: Pre-Bake the Base
Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F).
Bake the plain pizza base for 5–6 minutes.
Remove and let it cool.
Now it’s ready for your favorite toppings.
Step 6: Make the Pizza
Spread pizza sauce.
Add cheese and your favorite vegetables or toppings.
Bake again for 8–10 minutes until the cheese melts and the crust turns golden.
Tips for the Best Pizza Base
- Always use lukewarm water, not hot water.
- Knead well for a soft and airy crust.
- Don’t skip the resting time.
- Pre-baking helps keep the base crisp after adding toppings.
- Brush the crust with garlic butter after baking for extra flavor.
Storage
- Refrigerate the pre-baked pizza base for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight bag.
Nutrition (Per Base Approx.)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 72 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 3 g