Pizza Dough Pizza Hut Recipe – Soft, Chewy Crust Just Like the Classic!
Let’s be real—there’s something deeply nostalgic and comforting about a good old slice of Pizza Hut-style pizza. That thick, buttery crust? The chewy bite with the golden crisp edges? Oh yeah. It’s pure pizza joy.
So today, I’m bringing you my tried-and-tested Pizza Dough Pizza Hut Recipe. It’s fluffy on the inside, golden on the bottom, and gives you that signature pan-pizza vibe we all secretly crave. After years of experimenting (and a few too many delivery orders), I’ve finally nailed the homemade version—and now I’m handing it over to you.
🧾 Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups (about 440g) |
| Warm water (around 110°F) | 1 ⅓ cups (320ml) |
| Active dry yeast | 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp (plus more for pans) |
| Cornmeal (for dusting pans) | 1–2 tbsp |
| Optional: Melted butter (for brushing crust) | 2 tbsp |
🍕 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the yeast
In a bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. This step is key to giving the dough that signature rise and bounce.
Step 2: Mix the dough
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), add flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and oil. Mix until combined, then knead for about 7–8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let it rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—usually about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 4: Prep your pans
Grab two 9-inch cake pans or one large cast iron skillet. Coat the bottom with a generous amount of oil (this is what gives you that Pizza Hut buttery crust!) and a light sprinkle of cornmeal.
Step 5: Shape the dough
Divide the dough into two balls, place each in your prepared pans, and press it out to the edges. Let it rest for 30 minutes while your oven preheats to 475°F (245°C).
Step 6: Top and bake
Add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 7: Brush the crust (optional but epic)
As soon as it’s out of the oven, brush the crust with melted butter. You just took it from homemade to legendary.
💡 Tips & Tricks for the Ultimate Pan Pizza
- Don’t skip the oil in the pan: It’s what gives the dough that crispy bottom!
- Let the dough rest in the pan before baking. This makes it puffier and creates those airy bubbles.
- Use a pizza stone or steel for extra heat if you want the bottom extra crisp.
- Try garlic butter for brushing the crust—add a pinch of garlic powder to the melted butter for a Pizza Hut Breadstick-style upgrade.
- Double the batch and freeze one ball of dough for your next pizza night.
❓ FAQ Section
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can! Just mix it right in with the dry ingredients and skip the blooming step.
Can I freeze this dough? Absolutely. After the first rise, wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What’s the best flour to use? All-purpose works great for that Pizza Hut-style crust. For a chewier version, you can sub in bread flour.
Can I make this dough the day before? Yep! After kneading, let it rise in the fridge overnight. It will develop deeper flavor.
Why does Pizza Hut crust taste buttery? Because they use oil—lots of it. And we do too, in the pan and with that post-bake butter brush!
✨ Final Thoughts & Encouragement
If you grew up loving that iconic thick crust, this Pizza Dough Pizza Hut Recipe will hit you with all the right flavors and textures. It’s the kind of dough that turns a simple night into a nostalgic, delicious event. Whether you load it up with pepperoni and cheese or keep it veggie and simple, you’ll get that same chewy, golden, pan-style magic.
So grab your favorite pan, preheat that oven, and let your kitchen smell like a Pizza Hut throwback. This recipe isn’t just about dough—it’s about memory, comfort, and making something seriously delicious from scratch.
Tag me when you bake it. I want to see that glorious crust!
See Also: Pizza Dough From Scratch Recipe – Perfect Homemade Crust Every Time
