The Ultimate 14 Inch Pizza Dough Weight Medium Crust Recipe

Homemade pizza has become a beloved activity for food enthusiasts. Among various crust styles, a medium crust strikes the perfect balance between soft and crispy, making it a popular choice. Achieving the ideal medium crust for 14-inch pizza hinges on getting the dough’s weight right. Follow this detailed recipe to craft the ultimate 14 inch pizza dough weight medium crust recipe.

Ingredients

To make your 14-inch medium-crust pizza dough, you’ll need:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 43°C)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Ingredient Roles:

• Flour: Provides structure and texture to the dough.
• Yeast: Responsible for fermentation, helping the dough rise and develop flavor.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
• Water: Hydrates the flour, allowing the gluten to form.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and improves the dough’s texture.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen scale (for precise weight)
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Pizza stone or baking sheet

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: Flour, yeast, and salt. Mix them well to distribute them evenly.
3. Gradually add the warm water, stirring as you go, until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
4. If you’re using olive oil, incorporate it at this stage for added flavor and texture.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough seems overly sticky, add more flour as necessary.
6. Calculate the Ideal Dough Weight: For a 14-inch pizza, use about 0.1 pounds of dough per square inch. The area of a 14-inch pizza is approximately 153.94 square inches (calculated using the formula π×r², with “r” being 7 inches). Aim for around 16-18 ounces (approximately 1 to 1.125 pounds) of dough for a perfect medium crust.
7. Let the Dough Rise
8. Put the kneaded dough into a bowl that has been lightly oiled.
9. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
10. Let it rise warmly for 1-2 hours or until the dough doubles. Tip: An oven with the light on provides a consistently warm temperature.
11. Shaping the Dough
12. After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air bubbles.
13. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a ball.
14. Using your hands or a rolling pin, flatten the dough into a 14-inch round. Ensure uniform thickness for an even medium crust.
15. Pre-Baking (Optional): Pre-bake the dough for 5-7 minutes at 475°F (245°C) before adding toppings for a crispier crust. This step ensures a golden-brown finish.

Toppings and Baking

1. Top your pizza with your favorite ingredients:

• Classic options: marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
• Gourmet choices: prosciutto, arugula, or roasted vegetables.

2. Bake the pizza in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Is dough too sticky? Gradually add more flour while kneading.
• Is the crust too thick or thin? Adjust the rolling process. Thinner dough yields a crispier crust, while thicker dough yields a softer texture.

Conclusion

With this detailed guide to crafting a 14 inch medium-crust pizza, you’ll be equipped to impress family and friends with your homemade culinary skills. The key is perfecting the dough’s weight for a balanced crust. Experiment with various toppings and savor the joy of making pizza at home! If you want more try this Pickle Pie Pizza at home.