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Brianna Hughes

The Best Homemade Pizza Crust (Crispy, Chewy & Easy for Beginners)

Learn how to make the best homemade pizza crust that’s crispy, chewy, and airy ...just like a pizzeria. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and perfect for family pizza night.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 14 hours
Total Time 14 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 2 10-12" Pizzas
Course: dinner, lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 790

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (105–110°F)
  • 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1/2 TBSP fine sea salt
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour / “00” flour)

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm water with the honey and salt. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit about 5 minutes, until slightly foamy.
  2. Pour into a bowl of flour, stir to combine, then knead gently for about 2 minutes. The dough will be a little sticky. That’s what makes it airy later.
  3. Cover and let rest for 4–5 hours at room temperature until doubled.
  4. Split dough into two balls. Fold each ball over itself 8 times, shaping into a smooth round. Place seam-side down in lightly oiled bowls. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or up to 7 days).
    The cold rise gives the dough incredible flavor and texture.
  5. Remove dough from fridge 1 hour before baking and preheat oven to 550°F with a pizza stone (or upside-down baking sheet).
  6. Flour your surface and press the dough out gently with your fingertips. Be careful not to pop those precious bubbles!
  7. Stretch on your knuckles until it reaches about 10–12 inches.
  8. Add toppings and slide onto the hot stone.
  9. Bake 8–10 minutes until golden, bubbly, and irresistible.

Notes

Pro Tips for the Best Crust

  • Use bread flour or “00” flour for a chewier texture.
  • Handle the dough gently so you keep those air pockets.
  • A high oven temp is key to getting that real pizzeria feel.
  • Don’t skip the overnight rise — flavor and texture depend on it.
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