Print

Easy Homemade Soft & Fluffy Pita Bread (Guaranteed to Puff)

Close-up of a perfectly cooked, fluffy pita bread cut in half showing the airy interior.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make soft, fluffy pita bread from scratch that puffs perfectly to create pockets. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and results in fresh bread better than store-bought versions.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and the olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: 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 60 to 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  5. Divide and rest: Punch down the dough gently. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball. Cover the balls and let them rest for 15 minutes.
  6. Preheat: Place a baking stone or an inverted heavy baking sheet in your oven. Preheat the oven to 500°F (260°C) for at least 30 minutes while the dough rests.
  7. Roll out: On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough ball into a circle about 6 to 7 inches in diameter and about 1/8 inch thick.
  8. Bake: Carefully place 1 or 2 rolled pitas directly onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Close the oven door quickly. Bake for 2 to 3 minutes. The pita should puff up completely.
  9. Finish: Remove the puffed pita with tongs. Place it on a clean towel and cover it immediately to keep it soft. Repeat with the remaining dough.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, brush the warm pitas with melted garlic butter after baking.
  • If you do not have an oven, you can cook the pitas one at a time in a dry, hot cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until bubbles appear, then flip and cook until puffed.
  • This recipe is naturally vegan.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/easy-homemade-pita-bread-recipe-puffs/