Perfect Homemade Pizza and Doughnuts: Start with the Ideal Dough

When it comes to homemade pizza and doughnuts, the foundation of both begins with one essential ingredient: the perfect dough. Whether you’re craving a crispy pizza crust or fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth doughnuts, mastering dough preparation is key. Below are step-by-step recipes for both treats that will help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Homemade Pizza Dough

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• 4 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Proof the Yeast

In a bowl, combine the sugar, ½ cup of warm water, and yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes to activate the yeast. This can be done either in the base of a stand mixer or a separate bowl.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and Italian seasoning (optional). Gradually add this dry mixture to the activated yeast mixture. Then, pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil and the remaining ½ cup of warm water.

3. Mix the Dough

Using a stand mixer or food processor with a dough attachment, mix the ingredients on low speed for about one minute. Then, increase the speed to medium-high and knead for 5 minutes, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and becomes elastic.

4. Let the Dough Rise

Coat a heatproof bowl with a tablespoon of olive oil, using a silicone brush to evenly distribute it. Place the dough in the bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Stretch the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and rolling pin. Transfer the dough onto the surface, and gently knead it for a few seconds to release air. Start rolling the dough into a 12-inch circle. If the dough becomes too sticky, add a little more flour to help with stretching.

6. Prepare and Bake the Pizza

Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly grease the pizza pan or sprinkle with cornmeal for a crisp bottom. Stretch the dough to fit the pan and add your desired toppings. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the center is fully cooked.

Homemade Fluffy Doughnuts

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
• 3/4 cup warm milk (or water)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp instant or active dry yeast

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk (or water)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, salt, yeast, and egg. Mix well. Then add the softened butter and flour, stirring until the dough forms a shaggy mass.

2. Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a clean work surface and knead for about 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.

3. Rest the Dough

Cover the dough with a bowl and allow it to rest for 15 minutes.

4. Shape the Doughnuts

After resting, divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball by tucking the edges toward the center. Cover the dough balls with a towel and let them rest for another 15 minutes.

5. Final Shaping

Dust the surface with flour to prevent sticking. Gently press the center of each dough ball with your thumb, then stretch it out to form the characteristic doughnut shape. Place the shaped doughnuts on a parchment-lined tray, dust with more flour, and cover with cling film.

6. Proof the Doughnuts

Allow the doughnuts to rise in a warm place for 35-40 minutes, or until they are puffed and light.

7. Fry the Doughnuts

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there’s enough oil for the doughnuts to float. Fry the doughnuts for about 1.5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to flip them gently and keep an eye on the temperature to ensure even frying.

8. Drain and Glaze

Once fried, transfer the doughnuts to a paper towel-lined tray to absorb excess oil. Once they’ve cooled slightly, you can either coat them in superfine sugar or powdered sugar, or dip them in a glaze made from powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.

Source: Kook en Bak