Greek Pita Bread Recipe

Greek Pita Bread Recipe

Greek pita bread is a soft slightly chewy flatbread that pairs perfectly with dips like tzatziki hummus and baba ganoush. It’s also a staple in Greek gyros and souvlaki wraps. Unlike store-bought pitas homemade ones are fresh fluffy and free from preservatives. The best part? You can make them with just a few pantry ingredients and cook them in minutes on a stovetop or in the oven.

With this easy recipe you’ll achieve authentic Greek pita bread that puffs up beautifully while cooking creating the classic pocket or a soft wrap-style bread.

Total Time:

Table of Contents

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Rise Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Servings: 6 pitas

Ingredients

3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour (or bread flour)

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp olive oil

Optional: 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (for extra softness)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl combine warm water sugar and yeast

Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy (this means the yeast is active)

2. Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl whisk together flour and salt

Add the yeast mixture olive oil and Greek yogurt (if using)

Stir with a spoon or your hands until a rough dough forms

3. Knead the Dough:

Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic

If sticky add a little more flour; if too dry add a few drops of water

4. First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size

5. Shape the Pitas:

Once risen punch down the dough and divide it into 6 equal portions

Roll each portion into a circle (about ¼ inch thick and 6-7 inches in diameter)

6. Cook the Pitas (Stovetop Method):

Heat a dry cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat

Cook each pita for 1-2 minutes per side flipping when bubbles form

The pita should puff up; press gently with a spatula if needed to encourage it

(Optional) Baking Method:

Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C)

Place pitas on a hot baking sheet or pizza stone and bake for 3-5 minutes flipping once

7. Serve & Enjoy:

Serve warm with dips or as a wrap for gyros souvlaki or falafel

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months

Tips for Perfect Pita Bread

Use warm water If the water is too hot it can kill the yeast; if too cold it won’t activate properly
Let the dough rise properly This ensures soft fluffy pitas
Roll evenly Pitas should be ¼ inch thick to allow for proper puffing
Use a hot pan or oven The high heat creates steam which makes the pitas puff up
Keep pitas warm Cover cooked pitas with a towel to keep them soft.