Description
This Pizza Hut Dough Recipe is a faithful copycat of the classic pan pizza crust, perfect for recreating that beloved restaurant experience at home. With a soft, elastic texture achieved through yeast fermentation and a buttery finish from olive oil, this dough makes for a delicious base ready for your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/3 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup nonfat dry milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For Coating the Pans
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water at about 110°F. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix dough ingredients: Stir in the granulated sugar, nonfat dry milk, salt, and vegetable oil into the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough: Knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface or use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Divide and shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Divide it into portions suitable for two 12-inch pizzas or one large pan pizza. Lightly coat your pizza pans with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the crust: Press and stretch the dough evenly into the oiled pans, stretching it to the edges. Let it rest and rise again for 20 to 30 minutes before adding toppings.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking a crispy yet tender crust.
- Add toppings and bake: Add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings onto the dough. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
Notes
- For an authentic Pizza Hut pan-style crust, use a dark pizza pan which helps achieve the classic buttery, crispy edges.
- Allowing the dough a second rise in the pan before baking enhances the fluffiness of the crust.
- This dough freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months for future use.
