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The Ultimate Fluffy Homemade Pita Bread: Classic Recipe Guaranteed to Puff

A stack of freshly made, slightly puffed pita bread with golden-brown charred spots.
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Make soft, fluffy pita bread with a perfect pocket at home using simple ingredients. This recipe ensures a good puff every time, whether you bake or cook it on the skillet.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. This shows the yeast is active.
  2. Stir in the salt and olive oil into the yeast mixture.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough gently and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Cover the balls and let them rest for 10 minutes.
  7. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside, or heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  8. Working with one ball at a time, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 6 to 7-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Do not overwork the dough.
  9. For oven baking: Place 2 or 3 rounds directly onto the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 2 to 3 minutes until the bread puffs completely.
  10. For skillet cooking: Place one round onto the hot, dry skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until bubbles form, then flip. Cook the second side for about 1 minute until it puffs. Flip once more briefly if needed.
  11. Remove the cooked pitas and wrap them immediately in a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Notes

  • For the best puff, make sure your water temperature is correct for the yeast and your oven or skillet is very hot before placing the dough inside.
  • If you want garlic pita bread, brush the cooked pitas lightly with melted butter mixed with minced garlic and parsley.
  • This dough can be made ahead; store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before the final rise.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savoryskies.com/pita-bread-ultimate-fluffy-homemade-recipe/