Little Caesars Pizza Dough Recipe
Pizza originally comes from Italy, but the Little Caesars Pizza Dough Recipe has an American twist. Founded in 1959 in Michigan, Little Caesars is a favorite in the U.S. because it is tasty and affordable.
I have been making pizzas for many years, and this recipe is one of my favorites. It may not follow traditional methods but works well for today’s pizza lovers.
I focused on perfecting this dough because its tender and chewy texture goes great with strong toppings and rich sauce. It has a cozy feel but also offers a delicious flavor.
Fact You Must Know About Little Caesars Pizza Dough
Little Caesars is known for being one of the first pizza chains to offer two pizzas for the price of one. Their pizza dough reflects American food culture, as it is quick to make, comforting, and perfect for sharing.
The crust is designed to hold heavy toppings without becoming soggy, and the dough is fermented to enhance its flavor and texture. This pizza brings people together and is enjoyed at home, school events, and weekend dinners.
Why I Love This Pizza Dough
This Pizza dough is different from others because it is easy to make. You do not need to be a pro to make it. It is beginner-friendly and delivers great results.
But if you have baked before, you will appreciate this. My homemade version has more flavor and better texture than the store-bought one. Its texture is soft inside, light and crisp on the outside, and richer and fresher, and you can tweak it to your liking.
Little Caesars Pizza Dough Recipe Ingredients
This recipe makes enough for four medium pizzas or two large pizzas (Serves 4-6 people):
- 1⅔ cups of warm water helps activate the yeast.
- 1½ tablespoons of Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and softness.
- 2 teaspoons of Instant yeast make the dough rise.
- 1 tablespoon of salt balances flavor.
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar add a slight sweetness and feed the yeast. Swap sugar with honey for a deeper flavor.
- 5¾ cups all-purpose flour. Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
Kitchen Tools:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sturdy spoon or spatula
- Cast iron pan or baking tray.
- Plastic wrap or lid
- Pizza stone or steel (optional)
How To Prepare Little Caesars Pizza Dough Recipe
Step 1
Mix the Dough: Combine warm water, olive oil, yeast, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Stir gently. Slowly add flour while mixing with a spoon until it forms a dough.
Step 2
Hand Mix and Ferment: Switch to using your wet hand. Squeeze and mix the dough until smooth. Cover and let it sit for 30 minutes.
Step 3
Fold and Shape: Wet your hand again. Stretch and fold the dough 4–5 times. Flip it seam-side down and shape it into a ball. Cover and rest for 60 minutes.
Step 4
Divide and Pre-Shape: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Divide into 4 equal parts. Fold each piece and roll into a ball. Place it on an oiled tray and rest for 15 minutes.
Step 5
Press and Top: Press each dough ball into a pizza shape. Use a cast-iron pan or baking tray. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then press again. Add sauce and toppings.
Step 6
Bake: Bake at 550°F for 12 minutes in a pan or 10 minutes on a stone. The crust should be golden, and the cheese should be bubbly.
Keep in Mind
- Add garlic powder or herbs to the dough for extra taste.
- Resting steps help the dough relax.
- Wet hands make mixing easier and less sticky.
- Avoid over-kneading, as it can make the dough tough.
- Use fresh yeast for best results.
- To activate the yeast, boil the water at 30°C.
- Let the dough rise in a warm spot, not too hot.
How to Store
Dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wrap each dough ball in plastic and place in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 2 months.
To reheat baked pizza, thaw it in the fridge overnight before using. Bake it in the oven at 375°F for 5 to 7 minutes.
Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust rubbery. It has gone bad if the dough smells sour or has gray spots. Toss it out if it feels slimy or sticky in a strange way.
Dish That Pair Well with This
This pizza dough pairs well with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. Warm garlic broccoli is an excellent side because the garlic flavor complements the cheesy pizza and adds a fresh taste.
Instead of traditional tomato sauce, spread a thin layer of Southwest Ranch or Honey Mustard on the dough before adding cheese and toppings.
For a complete dinner, you can add wings or mozzarella sticks. Keep the sides simple so the pizza remains the main attraction.
FAQs You May Need to Know
Common Questions Answered
1. What if my dough does not rise?
Check your yeast. It may have expired, or the water may be too hot.
2. Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes, but dissolve it in water first before mixing.
3. Is this dough good for a thin crust?
Yes, roll it thinner and reduce baking time.
4. What is the best sauce for this dough?
Use the tomato sauce recipe; it is rich and balanced.
5. Can I use this dough for calzones?
Yes, it folds well and holds fillings nicely.
Little Caesars Pizza Dough Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the Dough: Combine warm water, olive oil, yeast, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Stir gently. Slowly add flour while mixing with a spoon until it forms a dough.
- Hand Mix and Ferment: Switch to using your wet hand. Squeeze and mix the dough until smooth. Cover and let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Fold and Shape: Wet your hand again. Stretch and fold the dough 4–5 times. Flip it seam-side down and shape it into a ball. Cover and rest for 60 minutes.
- Divide and Pre-Shape: Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Divide into 4 equal parts. Fold each piece and roll into a ball. Place it on an oiled tray and rest for 15 minutes.
- Press and Top: Press each dough ball into a pizza shape. Use a cast-iron pan or baking tray. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then press again. Add sauce and toppings.
- Bake: Bake at 550°F for 12 minutes in a pan or 10 minutes on a stone. The crust should be golden, and the cheese should be bubbly.
Notes
This Little Caesars Pizza Dough Recipe is one of my favorites at home. It is easy, tasty, and gives you that classic pizza shop feel. Try it today and enjoy a slice that’s better than takeout.
