Great dough is more than just the start of a pizza. It is the foundation for countless homemade favorites that bring warmth, flavor, and tradition to the table. With a single dough ball, you can create everything from crispy thin crust pizzas and airy focaccia to garlic knots, stromboli, calzones, flatbreads, sandwich rolls, and rustic Italian loaves. Its versatility makes it one of the most essential staples in any kitchen, whether you are preparing a weeknight meal or baking for family gatherings and celebrations.
At Cento, we believe the best recipes begin with quality ingredients and authentic Italian inspiration. A properly made dough develops flavor, texture, and structure over time, creating that perfect balance of a crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior. Using premium flour and simple ingredients allows the dough to shine in every recipe, making it adaptable for both traditional dishes and modern creations. Whether baked in a home oven, pizza oven, or cast iron pan, the possibilities begin with the same simple base.
The quality of your dough begins with the quality of your flour. Italian flours are prized for their texture, consistency, and ability to create dough with the ideal balance of elasticity and tenderness. Our dough recipes feature Anna Tipo “00” Flour, a finely milled flour specially crafted for high heat baking and authentic pizza making.
What makes “00” flour different is its fine texture and refined milling process, which helps create a softer dough with a light, airy crust and delicate chew. Whether you are baking pizza, focaccia, or artisan breads, the right flour helps achieve professional quality results at home.
Mix flour and salt together and add to a mixing bowl. Create a well in the center and pour water into the well. Add the sugar and yeast to the water and mix within water. Gradually mix flour into the water in small increments and as the dough begins to form, take it out of the bowl and continue to work it by hand on a floured surface. If the dough is too sticky, add flour in small increments until the dough no longer sticks to your hands or the kneading surface. Knead the dough thoroughly until it becomes smooth, then place a small amount of extra virgin olive oil on the bottom of a bowl and place the dough into the bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, and leave it out about 20 minutes or until the dough has completely risen. To tell if the dough is fully risen, make a small indentation in the center. If the indentation does not rise, the dough is ready.
One dough recipe can become an entire table of Italian favorites. Stretch it into a classic San Marzano pizza topped with fresh mozzarella and basil, press it into a sheet pan for golden focaccia, or shape it into buttery garlic knots for an easy appetizer. It can be folded into stuffed breads, layered with meats and cheeses for stromboli, or baked into artisan style bread with a crisp crust and tender crumb. Even leftover dough can be transformed into breadsticks, rolls, or flatbreads perfect for sandwiches and dipping oils.
Great pizza starts with quality ingredients and a well-made dough, but there’s always more to learn. Discover what makes Italian pizza dough unique and explore the many ways a single dough ball can be transformed into your favorite homemade creations.
Packaging, nutrition facts and ingredient statements are
subject to change. For the most up to date information
regarding a product, please refer to the product’s packaging.
