Depending on the amount and the type of yeast for pizza dough you use, fresh pizza dough will last unrefrigerated for twenty-four hours. It will keep in a fridge for three to four days and can be stored in a freezer for as long as three months. No matter which recipe for pizza dough you use, the key to a perfect homemade pizza lies in the quality and storage of your dough.
Today, we’ll explore the shelf life of homemade pizza dough and provide you with some helpful tips to ensure your dough stays ready to be transformed into a delicious pizza masterpiece.
Storing Homemade Pizza Dough
Homemade pizza dough will only stay good unrefrigerated for twenty-fours (depending on how much yeast you use), so you will need to store it in either your refrigerator or freezer, depending on when you plan to use it. Here are our tips for making your pizza dough last longer:
How Long to Refrigerate the Dough
Once you have kneaded and allowed your dough to rise, you can refrigerate it for up to four days. We recommend not waiting longer than two days before use in order to have the least noticeable difference in taste. This is a great way to make sure your dough remains as fresh and flavorful as possible.
Store the dough in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors in the fridge.
Freezing Pizza Dough
If you want to extend the lifespan of your pizza dough, freezing it is a great option. Before freezing, divide the dough into portions for one pizza. Then, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
When stored properly in the freezer, frozen pizza dough can last for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before use.
Signs of Spoiled Pizza Dough
Despite your best efforts, there still may come a day when you suspect your pizza dough has spoiled. Here are some signs that indicate spoilage:
- Unpleasant odor: If the dough smells strange or has an odor, it is likely spoiled and should be thrown away.
- Discoloration: If you notice any changes in the dough’s appearance, such as a gray hue or spots, it’s not safe to use anymore. Pink is also a color to watch out for, as this means your pizza dough is not safe to eat. Pizza dough that turns pink or exhibits any unusual coloration is a clear indicator of bacterial growth, making it potentially harmful for consumption.
- Dough texture: When it comes to texture changes, if the pizza dough becomes too sticky, slimy, or stiff, it’s best to play it safe and avoid using it. The dough should feel smooth and be slightly elastic.
If something else seems off, trust your gut and just chuck it! It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Tips to Prolong Freshness
Here are a few tips to keep your pizza dough fresh for as long as possible:
- Using fresh ingredients ensures the quality of your dough and helps prolong its lifespan. So, be sure to double-check those expiration dates!
- Whether you store your pizza dough in the fridge or the freezer, make sure it is sealed in an airtight container or wrapped securely in plastic wrap. This prevents air and moisture from getting in
- Labeling your dough with the date it was made is a helpful reminder of how long it’s been stored. This practice ensures you use it within its prime quality window and avoid guessing games later on.
Homemade Pizza Dough Stored Right
Great pizza dough is a key ingredient for homemade pizzas. By properly storing it and staying alert to signs of spoilage, you can enjoy homemade pizza for up to four days in the refrigerator, and up to three months in the freezer.
Now that you know how to keep your dough fresh and safe, take a look at our post on what you can make with pizza dough. Happy baking!
