Harrowsmith’s Quick and Easy Homemade Pizza Dough

Fast and Easy Pizza Dough in Food Processor

🍕 Introduction:
This quick and easy pizza dough recipe, hailed as the best by many, originated from Harrowsmith’s television show and has since become a go-to for homemade pizza lovers. Perfectly suited for those craving a delicious homemade pizza without the hassle of a lengthy preparation, this recipe promises to deliver two 10-inch pizza crusts in just 25 minutes from start to finish!

🕒 Preparation Time: 25 minutes
🍽️ Yield: 2 10-inch pizza crusts

Ingredients:

• 1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 cups tap water
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a food processor, combine the active dry yeast, white sugar, 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, salt, olive oil, and tap water.

2. Process the Ingredients:

   • Pulse the food processor for about 15 seconds to mix the ingredients thoroughly.

3. Incorporate Additional Flour:

   • Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and blend until incorporated.

4. Form the Dough:

   • Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of all-purpose flour until a ball of dough forms in the food processor.

5. Knead the Dough:

   • Remove the dough from the food processor and knead it on a lightly floured surface approximately 10 times to ensure it is smooth and elastic.

6. Rest the Dough:

   • Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to rise slightly and become easier to work with.

7. Prepare Toppings:

   • While the dough is resting, prepare your preferred pizza toppings, such as sauce, pepperoni, sausage, and cheese. This preparation ensures that everything is ready to assemble once the dough is rolled out.

8. Roll Out the Dough:

   • After the resting period, divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a 10-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.

9. Prepare the Pan:

   • Place each rolled-out dough circle onto an oiled pizza pan or a pan sprinkled with cornmeal. This step prevents the dough from sticking and adds a delightful texture to the crust.

10. Add Toppings:

    • Top the prepared dough with your favorite toppings, spreading them evenly over the surface.

11. Bake the Pizza:

    • Preheat your oven to a very hot temperature between 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (200 to 230 degrees Celsius).
    • Bake the pizzas for approximately 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the toppings are cooked to your liking.

12. Enjoy Your Homemade Pizza:

    • Once baked, remove the pizzas from the oven, slice, and serve hot. Enjoy the fresh, homemade flavors of your quick and easy pizza!

Notes:

• Alternative Preparation: If you don’t have a food processor, you can also prepare this dough using a stand mixer fitted with dough hooks. Follow the same steps, allowing the mixer to knead the dough until it forms a smooth ball.

• Make-Ahead Tip: You can also prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes it convenient to enjoy homemade pizza on busy weeknights or for spontaneous gatherings.

• October 2004 Adjustment: The recipe has been tested and successfully adapted using a KitchenAid mixer with dough hooks after the food processor broke down, proving its versatility and reliability.

This fast and easy pizza dough recipe is a testament to simplicity without compromising on taste, making it a favorite among those seeking a quick yet satisfying homemade pizza experience. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual get-togethers, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire!