Step 1 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Place the warm water, yeast, sugar, and olive oil in a large mixing bowl. Stir to combine.
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Step 2 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Add the flour and salt to the water mixture. Use a wooden spoon to mix until all the flour is hydrated and a ragged dough forms. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead until the dough is very smooth and elastic, 8-10 minutes.
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Step 3 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled mixing bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and set in a warm place to rest. Allow the dough to rise for 2 hours, or until doubled in volume.
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Step 4 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Once the dough has risen, place a baking stone or two large baking sheets in the oven. Preheat the oven to 450°F.
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Step 5 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Cut the dough into 8 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll 1 dough portion into a thin 6-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Place the finished circle on a baking sheet and cover with a damp towel while you repeat with the remaining dough.
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Step 6 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Quickly open the oven door and transfer the dough circles directly onto the hot baking stone or sheets, spacing them roughly 2 inches apart. Bake the pita for 5 minutes.
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Step 7 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Open the oven door and swiftly flip the rounds. Continue baking until the pita are puffed with a few golden spots, 2-3 minutes.
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Step 8 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Check to see that pita bread is done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.
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Step 9 of 9
Homemade Pita Bread
Allow the pita to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. Leftover pita bread can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or frozen for 3 months.