How Long Does Pizza Dough Last In The Fridge | Get The Facts

Do you ever make a delicious homemade pizza but don’t finish the whole thing in one go? Or ever wondered what to do with leftover pizza dough? Well, if that sounds like you, then you’ve come to the right place because today I’m going to provide you with all the details about how long does pizza dough last in the fridge. Whether it’s store-bought or homemade, this guide will help keep your pizza dough fresh and tasty. So get ready for some drool-worthy pies.

What Is Pizza Dough?

Pizza dough is a staple in the world of pizza. It’s the foundation of every delicious pie, providing the perfect base for all your favorite toppings. Pizza dough is typically made from flour, yeast, water, and salt, and can be customized with various herbs and spices to add extra flavor. It is essential to get the right consistency for your dough, ensuring it rises correctly and creates a crispy, chewy crust.

How Long Does Pizza Dough Last?

Homemade pizza dough, when stored appropriately, can last up to five days in the refrigerator. The duration of storage, however, depends on the yeast content in the dough. Generally, lower yeast content allows for a longer shelf life. On the other hand, store-bought pizza dough can last for up to a week in the refrigerator. In terms of frozen pizza dough, it can be kept for up to three months and still maintain its quality.

How Long Does Pizza Dough Last In The Fridge?

So, how long does pizza dough last in the fridge? Properly stored, homemade pizza dough can last for up to five days in the fridge. As mentioned earlier, the duration of storage depends on the yeast content in the dough. If you have added more yeast to your dough, it will have a shorter shelf life compared to dough with less yeast. You can also choose to punch down the dough and refrigerate it for longer periods if needed.

Amount Of Yeast

The amount of yeast used in pizza dough can significantly affect its shelf life. If you use active dry yeast, the dough will last longer than instant yeast because it takes longer to activate and rise. So if you know you won’t be using your dough for a few days, opt for active dry yeast instead.

Temperature Of The Dough

The temperature of your dough can also impact its shelf life. If your pizza dough is left at room temperature for an extended period, it will start to ferment and rise, causing it to lose its quality. It’s important to store your dough in the fridge promptly after making it or purchasing it from the store.

Protein In The Flour

The protein content of the flour used can also affect the longevity of your pizza dough. Flour with higher protein levels, such as bread flour, will create a stronger and more elastic dough that can last longer in the fridge. On the other hand, lower protein flours, like all-purpose flour, will result in a softer and less durable dough that may not last as long.

The Benefits Of Storing Pizza Dough In The Fridge

The chilled pizza dough can maintain the viability of the yeast by slowing down its natural fermentation process. However, if the dough is kept at room temperature for an extended period, the yeast will consume all the sugar present in the dough, resulting in inadequate rising of the pizza crust. In contrast, storing the pizza dough in the refrigerator helps slow down the yeast’s activity, allowing for a more evenly risen and flavorful crust.

How To Store Pizza Dough In The Fridge?

Pizza dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply follow the steps below to keep it fresh:

• Place the dough in a bowl and cover the surface with plastic wrap.
• Alternatively, you can wrap the entire dough in plastic wrap.
• Another option is to place it in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container.
• Store the dough in the fridge for up to three days, punching it down every day if needed.

What To Do Before Using Pizza Dough Stored In The Fridge?

For optimal outcomes when using pre-made pizza dough, allow the dough to rest at room temperature in its packaging or covered until it has slightly risen, and then proceed to stretch it. In my experience, store-bought dough tends to be more difficult to stretch than homemade dough. Avoid adding extra flour if the dough feels sticky and instead use a light dusting of cornmeal to make it easier to handle.

How To Make Pizza Dough Last Longer?

To keep it fresh, you have a few options: you can place the dough in a bowl and cover the surface with plastic wrap, wrap the entire dough in plastic wrap, or store it in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to make pizza, remove the dough from the fridge and let it come to room temperature.

Additionally, you can also freeze pizza dough to extend its shelf life even further. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the dough overnight in the fridge before bringing it to room temperature and stretching it out.

Another way to make your pizza dough last longer is by adding a small amount of oil to your dough recipe. The oil helps to prevent the dough from drying out, thus prolonging its shelf life in the fridge. You can also opt for longer fermentation times when making your dough, resulting in more complex flavors and a longer-lasting crust.

How To Tell If Pizza Dough Has Gone Bad?

If you’re unsure if your pizza dough has gone bad, there are a few signs to look out for:

• Mold: If you see any mold growing on the surface of your dough, discard it immediately. Mold can be toxic and should not be consumed.
• Bad smell: If your pizza dough smells sour or rancid, it may have gone bad. Trust your sense of smell and discard the dough if it has a noticeable off-odor.
• Discoloration: Pizza dough that has gone bad may have a grayish or darkened color. This is another sign that it should be thrown out.

How To Use Pizza Dough From The Fridge?

After removing the dough from the refrigerator, reshape it and allow it to rise again, covered, in a warm location. This process may take some time, as the dough has been chilled. It is crucial to wait for the dough to warm up and rise adequately, as failing to do so may result in tight gluten, making it difficult to stretch the dough. Once the dough has risen, it is ready to be stretched, topped with your favorite toppings, and baked into a delicious pizza.