Gluten Free Pizza Dough

Craving a homemade pizza night without the gluten? This gluten free pizza dough hits the spot with a crispy exterior, chewy center, and the kind of flavor that doesn’t leave you missing traditional crust. Whether you follow a gluten-free lifestyle or are simply experimenting, this dough is foolproof, pantry-friendly, and absolutely delicious.

With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dough that rolls, stretches, and bakes just like the real thing. It’s perfect for everything from a casual family dinner to build-your-own pizza parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Yet Soft: The crust crisps beautifully on the edges while staying soft and chewy inside—everything a great pizza should be.
• Easy Pantry Ingredients: No specialty items required. Just a simple gluten-free flour blend, yeast, oil, and a few essentials you probably already have.
• Customizable for Any Toppings: From classic pepperoni to veggie-packed creations, this crust is sturdy enough to handle them all.
• Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a pro to pull this off. The recipe walks you through every step with ease.
• Allergy-Friendly: Easily adaptable to be dairy-free or vegan, depending on your dietary needs.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a perfect gluten free pizza dough:

Dough Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (around 110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt

Optional for Texture & Flavor:

• 1 tablespoon cornmeal (for baking sheet or stone)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, dried oregano, or basil

Note: If your gluten-free flour doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add 1 teaspoon separately to improve dough elasticity.

Instructions

Follow this step-by-step process to get the perfect gluten-free pizza base:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

• In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
• Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it foams. This shows your yeast is active and ready.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and xanthan gum (if needed).
• Add the olive oil, vinegar, and yeast mixture.
• Stir using a spoon or stand mixer with dough hook until a sticky dough forms. Add a bit of water if it feels dry.

Step 3: Let It Rise

• Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap.
• Set in a warm place and let rise for 30–45 minutes until slightly puffed.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• If using a pizza stone, place it inside the oven while it preheats.
• Line a baking tray or pan with parchment and sprinkle with cornmeal.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

• Move the dough to your prepared surface.
• Lightly oil your hands and spread it out to a 10–12 inch round, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 6: Parbake the Crust

• Bake the plain crust for 8–10 minutes.
• Remove from the oven and add sauce, cheese, and toppings.

Step 7: Final Bake

• Return to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes more, until the crust is golden and toppings are bubbling.
• For extra crisp, place directly on the rack for the final 2 minutes.

Pro Tips and Variations

Pro Tips

• Use a quality flour blend: Choose a 1:1 baking blend with xanthan gum for best results.
• Don’t skip the parbake: Pre-baking prevents sogginess and ensures a crisp crust.
• Oil your hands: Gluten-free dough can be sticky—oiling your hands makes it easier to shape.
• Use a hot oven: A high temp helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.
• Let it rest: After mixing, give the dough time to hydrate and develop structure.

Variations

• Herb-Crust: Mix in dried basil or rosemary for an herby touch.
• Cheesy Dough: Add shredded cheese directly into the dough for extra flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheese or go cheeseless with bold veggie toppings.
• Vegan Option: Skip meat and use vegan-safe sugar and cheese.
• Thin & Crispy: Spread thinner and bake a few minutes longer for a crunchy finish.

Serving Suggestions

This crust is a blank canvas—build your dream pizza! Here are some tasty ideas:

Classic Cheese Pizza

A generous layer of mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce—sometimes simple is best.

Mediterranean Veggie

Top with olives, artichokes, red onion, and feta for a Greek-inspired twist.

Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Use buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Pesto & Tomato

Swap tomato sauce for pesto, then layer on fresh tomato slices and mozzarella.

Vegan BBQ Pizza

Top with BBQ jackfruit, red onion, and vegan cheese for a smoky, plant-based bite.

Sweet Dessert Pizza

Brush the crust with coconut oil and cinnamon sugar, bake, then top with fruit and a drizzle of chocolate or honey.

Conclusion

This gluten free pizza dough delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or just looking for a healthier alternative, this recipe proves that great pizza doesn’t need gluten to be delicious.

It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners and customizable enough for everyone at the table. With just a little prep and the right blend of ingredients, you’ll have a crust that rivals any pizzeria’s—chewy, crispy, and oh-so-satisfying.

FAQs

What’s the best gluten free flour for pizza?

A 1:1 gluten free flour blend with xanthan gum works best. It mimics wheat flour’s texture and gives elasticity to the dough.

Can I freeze this dough?

Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before shaping and baking.

Why add vinegar to gluten free dough?

Vinegar helps improve texture by reacting with baking agents and aids in tenderness and rise.

Why didn’t my dough rise?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and the water is warm—not hot. Also, allow it to rest in a warm environment.

How can I make the crust crispier?

Parbake first and finish on a hot pizza stone or directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

The dough itself is dairy-free. Use plant-based toppings to keep your whole pizza dairy-free.