Gluten Free Pizza Dough Recipe

Gluten free pizza dough is soft, chewy, and deliciously crisp around the edges, perfect for those avoiding gluten but craving classic pizza flavor. This recipe makes it easy to create a pizzeria-quality crust at home without any special equipment. With a few pantry ingredients and some patience, you’ll enjoy a satisfying, gluten-free pizza night everyone will love.

This dough is light yet sturdy enough to hold all your favorite toppings, from gooey cheese to roasted veggies. Whether you prefer thin crust or thick and fluffy, this gluten-free version is versatile and easy to customize for any pizza craving.

Ingredients List

– 2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum included)
– 1 tablespoon instant yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for extra chewiness)
– Cornmeal or extra flour for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: In a medium mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This activates the yeast and ensures a good rise.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. Once mixed, create a small well in the center of the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Pour the yeast mixture, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar into the well. Stir until a sticky dough begins to form. The dough should be thicker than batter but slightly sticky — gluten-free doughs are typically softer than traditional ones.

Step 4: Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment (or a sturdy spoon), beat the dough for 2–3 minutes on medium speed until it becomes smooth and elastic-like.

Step 5: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise for 30–40 minutes in a warm place. The dough should puff up slightly but won’t double like regular dough.

Step 6: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper and lightly dust with cornmeal.

Step 7: Transfer the dough to the prepared surface. Wet your hands with olive oil and press the dough into a round shape about 12 inches in diameter for thin crust or smaller for thicker crust.

Step 8: Brush the top lightly with olive oil and pre-bake for 10 minutes. This helps the crust set before adding toppings.

Step 9: Remove the crust from the oven, add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings, then bake again for 10–15 minutes or until golden and crisp.

Step 10: Let the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade gluten-free pizza with your favorite dip or side salad.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings

Makes 1 large 12-inch pizza or 2 medium-sized pizzas

Nutritional Information (approx. per slice)

Calories: 180
Carbs: 29g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 2g

Storage Instructions

Store leftover crust or baked pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, wrap the unbaked dough in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
To use frozen dough, thaw overnight in the fridge, then let it rest at room temperature before shaping.

Pairings/Suggestions

Pair your gluten-free pizza with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic parmesan breadsticks. For a cozy dinner, serve it with tomato basil soup or a side of marinara dipping sauce. You can also brush the crust edges with garlic butter or sprinkle them with herbs for extra flavor.

Seasonal Relevance

This gluten free pizza dough recipe works beautifully year-round. In summer, top it with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a caprese-style pizza. During winter, try hearty toppings like sausage, caramelized onions, and mushrooms. It’s also perfect for family pizza nights, parties, or game day gatherings.

Health Benefits

This gluten-free pizza dough provides an excellent alternative for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, allowing them to enjoy pizza without discomfort. Gluten-free flour blends often include nutritious ingredients like rice flour, tapioca, and potato starch, which are easier to digest. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and apple cider vinegar helps enhance the texture and flavor of the crust. With a balanced combination of carbs, fiber, and protein from toppings, it can easily fit into a healthy diet.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Gluten-free and safe for celiac diets	Texture slightly different from traditional dough
Easy to make with simple ingredients	Requires specific gluten-free flour blends
Crispy edges and soft center	Dough is sticky and needs careful handling
Customizable with any toppings	Shorter shelf life than regular pizza dough

Conclusion

This gluten free pizza dough recipe delivers all the flavor and satisfaction of traditional pizza with none of the gluten. It’s soft, chewy, and crisp in all the right places — the perfect base for any combination of toppings you love. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or simply experimenting with new baking methods, this recipe guarantees a delicious, pizzeria-style crust right from your kitchen.

From classic margherita to bold BBQ chicken pizza, the possibilities are endless. Once you taste how easy and tasty homemade gluten-free pizza can be, you’ll never go back to store-bought crust again.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use almond flour or coconut flour instead of a gluten-free blend?
It’s best to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for proper texture. Almond or coconut flour alone will make the dough too dense or crumbly.

Q2: How can I make this dough dairy-free as well?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just ensure your toppings — such as cheese or sauces — are also dairy-free if needed.

Q3: Can I cook this pizza dough on a grill?
Yes! Pre-bake the crust for 5–7 minutes, then grill it over medium heat for a smoky, crispy result. Add toppings and grill until the cheese melts.