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:
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.
In conclusion Greek pita bread is a versatile and delicious staple that is easy to make at home. With simple ingredients like flour yeast water and olive oil you can create soft fluffy pitas perfect for wraps dips or sandwiches. Whether enjoyed fresh off the pan or stored for later use homemade pita bread elevates any meal with its authentic taste and texture.
This homemade Greek pita bread is soft delicious and so easy to make.