This Mini Pizza Dough Recipe is perfect for creating delicious, homemade mini pizzas. The dough is soft, flavorful, and easy to work with, making it ideal for pizza nights or appetizers. With a hint of oregano and a drizzle of olive oil, these pizzas are sure to delight everyone.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
Makes: 10–12 mini pizzas
Ingredients
- 400 g (about 3 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon dry yeast (for bread)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 200 ml (about 3/4 cup) warm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Additional oregano, for sprinkling on top
- 1 teaspoon salt, for topping (optional)
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Mix gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and dried oregano (if using). Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Divide the dough into 10–12 equal portions and shape each into a small round disc, about 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter. Place the mini pizza bases on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle the mini pizzas with olive oil and sprinkle with additional oregano and salt (if desired).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, add your desired toppings, and bake for another 5–7 minutes until the cheese melts and the toppings are cooked.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with marinara or garlic dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Top with classic pizza toppings like mozzarella, pepperoni, and bell peppers.
- Add fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an Italian-inspired flavor.
- Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Use as a base for mini dessert pizzas with Nutella, fruits, and whipped cream.
Cooking Tips
- Use warm water (not hot) to activate the yeast for the best results.
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the mini pizza bases for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
- Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme in the dough for additional flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Provides carbohydrates for energy from the flour.
- Olive oil adds healthy fats and enhances the dough’s flavor.
- Customizable with healthy toppings like vegetables and lean proteins.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten; not suitable for gluten-free diets unless a gluten-free flour blend is used.
- Vegan-friendly if no animal-based toppings are added.
Nutritional Facts (Per Mini Pizza Base)
- Calories: ~150
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store unused dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap the dough or pre-baked pizza bases tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Defrost in the refrigerator before use.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare and versatile for any toppings.
- Perfect for individual servings or entertaining guests.
- Light and fluffy dough with a hint of herb flavor.
- A fun and interactive cooking project for kids or family gatherings.
Conclusion
This Mini Pizza Dough Recipe is a versatile and foolproof way to create delicious mini pizzas at home. The dough is soft, flavorful, and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy the ultimate pizza experience!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser. Mix with all-purpose flour for a lighter dough.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I skip the oregano in the dough?
Yes, oregano is optional and can be replaced with other herbs or omitted entirely.
How do I know the yeast is activated?
It will become frothy and bubbly after 5–10 minutes. If not, the yeast may be inactive.
Can I cook these on a stovetop instead of baking?
Yes, cook the mini pizza bases on a hot skillet until golden, then add toppings and cover until melted.
What toppings work best for mini pizzas?
Mozzarella, tomato sauce, pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives are classic options.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend, but note that the texture may vary.
Can I add cheese to the dough itself?
Yes, mix grated cheese into the dough for a cheesy flavor throughout.
How do I reheat leftover pizzas?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes for a crisp texture.
Can I make these sweet instead of savory?
Yes, omit the oregano and salt, then top with sweet ingredients like Nutella, fruits, or cinnamon sugar.