If you’re planning to keep your dough for a few days, it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as you’re done kneading to avoid leaving it at higher temperatures.
Fresh pizza dough typically lasts about 3-5 days in the fridge.
If you’re worried that yours might have gone bad, pay attention to its scent and texture.
If you notice a sour smell, there’s a chance your dough has over-fermented and is no longer usable.
Additionally, if the dough is dry, flaky, and hard to shape, it’s another sign of over-fermentation.
Remember to take your dough out of the fridge about an hour before you plan to roll it into shape.
This allows it to warm to room temperature, making it easier to handle and shape.
How Long Does Pizza Dough Last in The Fridge
When storing homemade pizza dough in the fridge, it not only maintains its freshness but can also enhance its flavor.
This makes it an ideal preparation method for easily accessible dough throughout the week.
Begin by lightly coating an airtight container or bowl with olive oil. This step is crucial as it prevents the dough from adhering to the sides.
Next, place your dough inside and cover it securely with a lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture and prevent drying.
Estimated Fridge Life
| Type of Pizza Dough | Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| Homemade Pizza Dough | 3-5 days |
| High Yeast Content Dough | Shorter duration |
| Low Yeast Content Dough | Longer duration |
Can I Store it at Room Temperature?
If you plan to use your pizza dough soon, you can leave it at room temperature for up to four hours.
Beyond that, it’s advisable to move it to the fridge to prevent over-fermentation.
The longevity of room temperature storage depends on the type of dough. For example, Neopolitan pizza dough, which contains very little yeast, can last up to 24 hours.
To keep your dough from drying out, brush it with oil and cover it securely with plastic wrap. This ensures that your dough remains fresh and ready for use when you need it.
How Long Does Pizza Dough Last in the Freezer
Storing pizza dough in the freezer is a practical option if you want to have some ready for future use. To ensure the best results, freeze the dough in smaller portions so it’s easy to thaw and use.
Pizza dough remains in good quality for up to three months when properly stored in the freezer.
To avoid freezer burn, which can negatively affect the dough’s texture and taste, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container.
This method will help keep your dough fresh until your next pizza night.
How to Thaw Frozen Pizza Dough
You can thaw frozen pizza dough in several ways, each suitable for different timescales and preferences:
1. Refrigerator Thawing
Place your frozen pizza dough in the fridge at least 8 hours before use. This method allows for a slow and even thaw. You can keep the defrosted dough in the fridge for up to three days before using it.
2. Cold-Water Thawing
For a quicker option, submerge the airtight plastic bag containing the dough in cold water. This method usually takes about 1-2 hours.
After most of the dough has thawed, remove it from the bag and let it rest in a dry bowl for about 30 minutes at room temperature before using.
3. Lukewarm-Water Thawing
Place the dough in an airtight bag and submerge it in lukewarm water. This method speeds up the thawing process.
Continue changing the water if it becomes too cold from the dough. Wait 1-2 hours and then transfer the dough to a dry bowl for 30 minutes.
4. Microwave Thawing
For the fastest method, remove the dough from its storage bag and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a bowl and set the microwave to defrost.
Heat for one minute, flip the dough, then heat for another minute. Be cautious not to overheat. After defrosting, let the dough sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before forming.
