Print

Soft & Fluffy Homemade Greek Pita Bread (Stovetop Method)

A stack of three golden-brown, fluffy pita bread rounds, with the top one broken open to show the airy interior.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make incredibly soft, fluffy homemade Greek pita bread that puffs into perfect pockets using a simple stovetop method. This recipe uses basic ingredients and is ideal for gyros, dipping in hummus, or making wraps.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional, for extra softness)

Instructions

  1. Combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let this mixture stand for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and Greek yogurt (if using). Mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
  6. Cover the dough balls and let them rest for 10 minutes.
  7. Heat a dry cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until it is very hot.
  8. Working with one ball at a time, roll it out into a thin circle, about 6 to 7 inches in diameter. Do not let the dough rest once rolled.
  9. Carefully place one rolled pita into the hot, dry skillet. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bubbles appear on the surface.
  10. Flip the pita and cook the second side for another 1 to 2 minutes. The pita should puff up completely, forming a pocket. If it does not puff, press gently on the top surface with a spatula to encourage puffing.
  11. Remove the puffed pita from the pan and wrap it in a clean kitchen towel to keep it warm and soft while you cook the remaining rounds.
  12. Serve your fresh pita bread warm.

Notes

  • For the best pocket formation, ensure your skillet is very hot before placing the dough in.
  • If you skip the optional Greek yogurt, the pitas will still be soft, but the yogurt adds richness.
  • These homemade pitas are best eaten the day they are made.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbymia.com/homemade-pita-bread-recipe-soft-fluffy/