Pizza Dough Water Ratio

• Pizza dough is generally made using a 1-to-3 ratio of water to flour, which creates a smooth and elastic, yet firm dough. While a single pizza crust requires anywhere from a 1/2 to 3/4 cups of water, most pizza dough recipes are designed to make two 12-inch pizza crusts and require about double the amount of overall water, ranging anywhere from 1 to 1 1/2 cups of water. Once the pizza dough is mixed, if it is too sticky, additional flour can be kneaded in to create a dough with a smooth consistency.

Mixing It Up

• Water is commonly added first, along with yeast, sugar and sometimes oil, when making pizza dough. After a proofing period, varying from a minutes to 15 minutes, add the flour and mix well until it is incorporated. Use a stand mixer for a hands-off approach to kneading and mix the dough for four to five minutes on a low speed. If you're kneading by hand, once the flour is incorporated, turn the dough out onto a floured counter and knead for six to eight minutes or until the dough is smooth. Allow dough to rest 10 to 60 minutes in a covered bowl before you roll it out and bake it.

Water Temperature

• The water for pizza dough should always be warm so the yeast begins acting quickly to raise the dough. The water should be between 110 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit to provide a jump-start for the yeast, while not killing it. Hotter water may kill the yeast, leaving you with pizza that's as flat as a cracker. Use an instant-read kitchen thermometer to ensure the water is at the right temperature so the yeast will be able to work quickly and efficiently.

Water Quality

• The type of water is also important when making pizza dough, especially if you live in an area where the tap water is highly fluoridated or chlorinated. Both of these chemicals, which are regularly added to tap water, can interfere with yeast's ability to work properly, as well as affect the overall taste of the pizza dough. When possible, use bottled or filtered water over tap water when making pizza dough to ensure a good rise.