Mini Pizza Dough Recipe is perfect for making individual-sized pizzas that everyone can customize with their favorite toppings. This easy-to-make dough is soft, chewy, and bakes up perfectly crispy on the outside. Here’s a simple recipe for mini pizza dough:
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for greasing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Cornmeal (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and stir to dissolve. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This means the yeast is activated.
2. Prepare the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Pour in the yeast mixture once it’s ready. Stir everything together until it forms a dough.
3. Knead the dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Let the dough rise:
Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Divide and shape the dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions to make mini pizzas (you can divide it into more portions if you prefer even smaller pizzas). Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it out with your hands or a rolling pin to form individual pizza crusts.
6. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, preheat it as well. Otherwise, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or sprinkle it with cornmeal for a crispier crust.
7. Assemble the mini pizzas:
Place each dough circle on your prepared baking sheet or pizza stone. Add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings to each pizza. Don’t overload them, as the mini pizzas will cook more evenly with a moderate amount of toppings.
8. Bake:
Bake the mini pizzas for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
9. Serve:
Once done, remove the mini pizzas from the oven, allow them to cool for a minute, and then slice and serve!
Tips:
- Freezing option: You can freeze the mini pizza dough after it rises. Simply shape the dough into balls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to use them, let them thaw and rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Toppings: Customize the pizzas with your favorite toppings like pepperoni, veggies, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.
- For crispy crust: If you like a crispier crust, use a pizza stone and preheat it before placing the dough on it. This helps achieve a perfectly crisp bottom.
This Mini Pizza Dough recipe is easy to make, customizable, and fun for everyone to create their personal pizzas. Enjoy the process of building your own pizza masterpiece!