Pizza Always Ready: The Baker’s Secret to Perfect Weekends

Pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a universal comfort food, loved by people across the globe. But for Italians, it’s not only a delicious dish; it’s a cultural experience, a moment of sharing with family and friends. Unsurprisingly, Saturday nights are synonymous with pizza dinners in Italy, and this tradition has become a cornerstone of their culinary identity.

But what if you could enjoy fresh, homemade pizza anytime you wanted, without the hassle of starting from scratch? The baker’s secret is here to save your weekends, offering a convenient solution to always have pizza dough ready to go.

The Baker’s Secret: Pizza Dough Always Ready

The key to enjoying pizza at any time is preparing and preserving the dough in advance. Using the baker’s method, you can freeze dough portions and defrost them whenever you’re in the mood for homemade pizza. Not only does this save time, but it also ensures you always have high-quality dough on hand.

Here’s how to prepare and store pizza dough like a pro.

Ingredients for the Perfect Pizza Dough

To get started, you’ll need just a few essential ingredients:

• 600 g of 00 flour (ideal for pizza-making)
• 400 g of Manitoba flour (for added strength and elasticity)
• 600 ml of water (slightly warm, not hot)
• 20 g of salt
• 1 stick of brewer’s yeast

This simple combination guarantees a dough that is easy to work with, rises perfectly, and delivers a delightful texture when baked.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Pizza Dough

1. Prepare the Dough

1. Warm the water slightly in a saucepan—just a few degrees above room temperature.
2. Dissolve the stick of brewer’s yeast in the warm water.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 00 flour, Manitoba flour, and salt. Slowly pour in the yeast-infused water while mixing the ingredients with your hands or a stand mixer.
4. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth, homogeneous, and compact. This step is crucial for activating the gluten, which gives the dough its structure.

2. Let It Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for at least three hours in a warm, draft-free environment. The dough should double in size, becoming airy and soft.

3. Portion and Preserve

After the dough has risen, it’s time to prepare it for storage:

1. Divide the dough into portions based on your preferred serving sizes. For example, individual portions for personal pizzas or larger portions for family-sized pizzas.
2. Wrap each portion in baking paper, ensuring it is sealed well. This prevents sticking and preserves the dough’s texture during freezing.
3. Write the storage date on each package to keep track of freshness.

4. Freeze for Later Use

Store the wrapped portions in the freezer. Dough can be frozen for up to 40 days without losing its quality. With this method, you’ll always have pizza dough ready for last-minute meals or weekend treats.

How to Use Frozen Pizza Dough

Defrosting the Dough

To use your frozen pizza dough:

1. Remove the desired portion from the freezer at least 12 hours in advance.
2. Place the dough in the refrigerator to defrost slowly and evenly. Avoid using a microwave or hot water, as this can compromise the texture.
3. Once defrosted, allow the dough to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to regain its elasticity and consistency.

Roll It Out and Add Toppings

Once the dough is ready, roll it out onto a floured surface. Customize your pizza with your favorite toppings—tomato sauce, mozzarella, fresh basil, cured meats, or even vegetables. Bake in a preheated oven at the highest temperature (usually 250°C / 480°F) for 8–10 minutes or until the crust is golden and crisp.

Why the Baker’s Trick is a Game-Changer

This method simplifies your weekends and ensures you never have to compromise on quality or taste. Here’s why it works so well:

1. Saves Time: Preparing dough in advance means no waiting for the rising process when you’re in a hurry.
2. Cost-Effective: Homemade dough is far more economical than store-bought alternatives or ordering takeout.
3. Customizable Portions: Freeze dough in portions that suit your family’s needs, avoiding waste.
4. Always Fresh: Proper storage techniques preserve the dough’s quality and flavor for up to 40 days.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Every Time

• Experiment with Flours: While 00 flour is ideal, you can try whole wheat or spelt flour for a healthier option.
• Control Rising Time: In colder climates, allow the dough to rise in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to speed up the process.
• Avoid Overloading Toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza soggy. Stick to a balanced combination for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Already-Baked Pizza?

Yes, you can freeze baked pizza slices in airtight containers. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

What If I Forget to Defrost the Dough?

If you’re short on time, you can defrost the dough at room temperature, but this might affect the final texture slightly.

Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Brewer’s Yeast?

Absolutely! Substitute the brewer’s yeast with 7 g of instant yeast for similar results.

Enjoy Pizza Anytime with This Simple Trick

With the baker’s secret to preserving pizza dough, you’ll never have to wait for hours to enjoy fresh, homemade pizza again. Whether it’s a last-minute dinner, a weekend tradition, or a fun meal with friends, this method guarantees you’ll always have delicious pizza at your fingertips.