Get ready to whip up a deliciously wholesome pizza dough that combines the nutty taste of whole wheat with the natural sweetness of honey. This Whole Wheat Honey Pizza Dough is simple to make and perfect for creating a healthier homemade pizza option that doesn't skimp on flavor.
Active dry yeast is the key to making your dough rise, giving it that soft and airy texture we all love in a good pizza crust. Dissolving it in warm water helps activate the yeast for optimal leavening.
Honey not only adds a touch of sweetness but also helps the yeast do its job more effectively. It also gives the crust a beautiful golden hue.
Whole wheat flour is the star of this recipe, delivering a hearty, nutty flavor and extra fiber, while all-purpose flour lightens the dough, ensuring a tender, chewy crust.
Olive oil keeps the dough moist and adds a rich flavor, while salt enhances all the natural flavors in the dough. Finally, cornmeal is used for dusting, preventing the dough from sticking and adding a slight crunch to the crust.
This dough is a fantastic base for a classic Margherita with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. For a heartier option, try it with roasted vegetables and goat cheese. Pair your pizza with a fresh, crisp salad or a glass of chilled white wine to round out your meal.
Start by grabbing a large bowl and pouring in your warm water. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water, then add the honey. Give it a quick stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This wait time allows the yeast to dissolve and start foaming, which means it's ready to go.
Next, add the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, olive oil, and salt to your yeast mixture. Stir everything together until you get a sticky dough. It might seem a bit messy, but that's exactly what you're looking for here.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and start kneading. Keep at it for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll feel the dough change as it becomes smooth and elastic under your hands. It’s a bit of a workout, but so worth it!
Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour. You'll know it's ready when it doubles in size, which is always exciting to see.
When the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release some of the air. Divide it into two equal portions. Dust your work surface with cornmeal and roll each portion out to your preferred thickness. This dough can handle being stretched thin or left a bit thicker, depending on your pizza style preference.
Preheat your oven to 450°F and pre-bake the dough for about 5 minutes. This step ensures a nice, crispy base for your toppings, which you can add after this initial bake. Once topped, pop your pizza back in the oven until the crust is a perfect golden brown.