Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Tipo 00 flour, sugar, and sea salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Add the fresh yeast (or dry yeast) into the mixture. It’s important to dissolve the yeast first in the ice-cold water if you’re using fresh yeast.
Gradually pour in the ice-cold water, mixing with a spoon or your hand until the dough starts to come together.
Add the extra-virgin olive oil and knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 2
After kneading, place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
This resting period is crucial as it helps develop the gluten structure, resulting in perfectly chewy crust.
Step 3
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide it into two portions if making small pizzas or keep it whole for a large one.
Preheat your oven to the highest setting (usually around 250°C or 482°F) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat up. This ensures a crispier crust.
Step 4
On a floured surface, stretch or roll out your dough into your desired pizza shape, usually about 10-12 inches in diameter for a large pizza. Be careful not to tear the dough.
Transfer the stretched dough onto a piece of parchment paper for easy movement into the oven. You can pinch the edges to create a crust.
Step 5
Add your favorite toppings, starting with a base of tomato sauce, cheese, and other vegetables or meats as desired. Remember not to overload your pizza to ensure even cooking.
Carefully slide your pizza (with the parchment paper) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Step 6
Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice it up and serve hot!
Enjoy your homemade pizza with friends or family, and don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and styles in the future!
Servings
Consider cutting your pizza into fun shapes for a kid-friendly twist, or serve it alongside a vibrant salad for a balanced meal. Pair it with a refreshing drink, such as a sparkling lemonade or chilled iced tea, to elevate the experience. 🍹
Feeling adventurous? Set up a “pizza topping bar” during your pizza night! Let everyone customize their slices with their favorite toppings, from classic pepperoni to exotic vegetables. The laughter and fun that ensues are sure to create lasting memories. 🤩
**Bon appétit! Enjoy your pizza feast!**
Equipment
This is where all the magic begins! Make sure it's large enough to accommodate the dough as it rises. A glass or plastic bowl works best for easy cleaning.
YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage
$27.99
$35.99
View details
Prime
best seller
Pyrex Glass, 3-Piece, 3 PC Mixing Bowl Set
$17.53
View details
Prime
REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful)
$26.99
View details
Accurate measurements are essential for perfect pizza dough. Invest in a good kitchen scale to measure your ingredients precisely for the best results.
San Jamar Digital Food Scale, Battery Operated with 66 Pound Capacity for Cooking, Baking, Meal Prep, Diet Tracking, Stainless Steel, 6.82 Pounds, Silver
$141.74
View details
Prime
Escali Primo Digital Food Scale Multi-Functional Kitchen Scale and Baking Scale for Precise Weight Measuring and Portion Control, 8.5 x 6 x 1.5 inches, Black
$24.95
$26.95
View details
Using a baking stone or pizza steel will help retain heat and create a crispy crust. Preheat it in the oven before baking your pizza.
This handy tool makes transferring your pizza to and from the oven a breeze. If you don’t have one, a flat cutting board can work just fine.
Variations
**Gluten-Free Version**: Replace all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free pizza flour blend. Make sure to follow the package instructions for the correct liquid ratios to ensure a good rise.
**Vegan Version**: Substitute the olive oil with a plant-based oil, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for topping. Don’t forget to check that your crust ingredients are completely free of animal products for a guilt-free indulgence! Enjoy delicious pizza that fits your lifestyle! 🍕✨
Faq
- What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Ensure your yeast is active; warm water should be around 100°F. If it fails, try using fresh yeast or double-checking your water temperature.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before shaping.
- How do I make sure my pizza crust is crispy?
Make sure your oven is preheated to a high temperature (at least 475°F). Use a pizza stone to help retain heat for a better crust.
- Can I freeze the leftover dough?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- What toppings go well together?
Classic combinations include pepperoni and cheese, veggie medleys, or chicken and barbecue sauce. Feel free to experiment!
- How do I prevent my pizza from sticking to the peel?
Using flour or cornmeal on the peel will help your pizza slide off easily. Shake off any excess before placing the dough on it.
