Description
This recipe provides a simple, foolproof method for creating delicious homemade pizza dough. It yields a tender yet slightly chewy crust that’s perfect for any topping you desire. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe will guide you through each step to achieve pizza perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups bread flour (320g)
- 1 ⅓ cups cake flour (160g)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (40g)
- 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
- 0.7 oz fresh yeast (20g) or 2 ¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast (7g)
- 1 ⅛ cups warm water (265ml)
- 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (20g)
Preparation
Step 1: Combine all the ingredients (bread flour, cake flour, sugar, salt, yeast, warm water, and softened butter) in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This can be done by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or using a stand mixer with a dough hook for approximately 6-8 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky, but not sticky.
Step 3: Divide the dough into two equal pieces if you are making two medium pizzas.
Step 4: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece of dough into a round shape. For a consistent size, you can use a bowl or plate as a guide to make an imprint on the dough.
Step 5: Roll up the edges of the dough slightly to create a raised crust. This will help contain the toppings and provide a nice edge to hold.
Step 6: Use a fork to prick the center of the dough several times. This prevents the dough from puffing up too much during baking.
Step 7: Place the prepared dough rounds on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or lightly oiled pizza pans.
Step 8: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it ferment in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This usually takes about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the temperature of your environment.
Step 9: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) for at least 10 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly heated.
Step 10: Add your favorite toppings to the pizza dough. Be creative and use a variety of cheeses, vegetables, meats, and sauces to create your perfect pizza.
Step 11: Bake the pizzas in the preheated oven at 190°C (374°F) for 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade pizza dough recipe is a game-changer because it’s incredibly versatile and customizable. You have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresh, high-quality base for your pizzas. The dough is easy to work with, producing a delicious crust that complements any topping. Plus, making your own dough is a fun and rewarding experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade pizza hot out of the oven, garnished with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil. Pair it with a crisp salad and your favorite beverage for a complete meal.
Tips
- For a crispier crust, bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or baking steel.
- If you don’t have cake flour, you can substitute it by using all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch per cup.
- Adjust the amount of water slightly depending on the humidity of your environment. The dough should be soft and pliable, but not too sticky.
- Don’t overcrowd the pizza with toppings, as this can make the crust soggy.
- If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling it out.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (includes fermentation time)
Nutritional Information (Per serving, approximate, without toppings)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion
Making homemade pizza dough is a rewarding experience that elevates your pizza nights to a whole new level. This recipe provides a reliable, easy-to-follow method for creating a delicious crust that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and creating your own signature pizzas!
Questions and Answers
Question 1: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour and cake flour?
Answer: While bread flour and cake flour are recommended for the best texture, you can use all-purpose flour in a pinch. However, the crust may be slightly less tender and chewy.
Question 2: How do I know if the dough has fermented enough?
Answer: The dough should double in size and feel light and airy. You can also gently poke it with your finger; if the indentation slowly springs back, it’s ready to be baked.
Question 3: Can I freeze the pizza dough for later use?
Answer: Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first fermentation. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Question 4: What’s the best way to reheat leftover pizza?
Answer: To reheat leftover pizza, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and bake the slices on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a skillet on the stovetop for a crispy crust.
Question 5: Can I add herbs or spices to the pizza dough for extra flavor?
Answer: Absolutely! You can add dried herbs like oregano, basil, or garlic powder to the dough while kneading for a boost of flavor. Just be sure not to add too much, as it could affect the texture of the dough.
