Name: Mini Pizzas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon instant yeast or active dry yeast; ½ cup + 1 tablespoon lukewarm water (135 ml); ½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; ½ or 1 tablespoon flour or semolina flour; ½ cup pizza sauce; 5 oz fresh mozzarella (or ½ cup shredded mozzarella); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 3 tablespoons fresh basil, coarsely chopped

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The aroma of fresh-baked mini pizzas wafts through the kitchen, bubbling cheese mingling with zesty tomato sauce as colorful toppings dance across the golden crust. Each bite is a delightful crunch followed by a melty explosion of flavor that beckons you for more. These little gems don’t just look adorable; they’re perfect for your next gathering, cozy family dinner, or even as a fun afternoon project with the kids. I have a cherished memory of making mini pizzas with my little cousin on a rainy Sunday, with flour-covered counters and laughter filling the air. It has always been a joyous occasion as we competed over whose pizza would earn the title of “most creative topping!” Now, it’s your turn to create memories with these delectable mini pizzas that everyone will cherish.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Mini Pizzas
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Mini Pizzas

Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick dining solution, these mini pizzas are the answer! They’re easy to assemble, and the toppings are completely customizable, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied. Plus, they freeze beautifully, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, combining the crispiness of the crust with the freshness of herbs. Get ready to whip up your very own batch of these delightful mini pizzas—let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip up these beauties in just 20 minutes—perfect for a last-minute snack!
Irresistible Flavor: The crispy crust topped with gooey cheese and fresh basil makes for an unforgettable bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These mini pizzas are delightful to look at, making them a hit at any gathering.
Flexible Serving: Snack time, game night, or a lazy weekend meal—there’s never a bad time for pizza!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets, so everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base for our crust, giving it the right texture and chew. For a chewier bite, you can use bread flour instead.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors in the crust; don’t skip this step!
½ teaspoon instant yeast or active dry yeast: This helps the dough rise, giving it that fluffy interior. Instant yeast is super quick and doesn’t need proofing, while active dry yeast requires a bit more time. Just be sure to follow the activation instructions if you use active dry.
½ cup + 1 tablespoon lukewarm water (135 ml): Combines with the yeast to activate it. Make sure it’s warm to the touch, not hot, or you risk killing the yeast!
½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness to the dough and helps with browning.
½ or 1 tablespoon flour or semolina flour: For rolling out the dough without sticking.
½ cup pizza sauce: You can use store-bought or my favorite homemade pizza sauce recipe.
5 oz fresh mozzarella (or ½ cup shredded mozzarella): Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and has a creamy texture; shredded is perfectly fine if that’s what you have on hand.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic pizza herb that boosts flavor.
3 tablespoons fresh basil, coarsely chopped: Adds a refreshing pop of flavor and a great garnish after baking.

How to Make Mini Pizzas

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and yeast until well combined. This step is essential as it ensures that the yest is evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating uniform rising.

Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly add in the lukewarm water and olive oil. Stir with a spoon until the mixture comes together into a shaggy dough. The flour should absorb the water, creating a sticky yet manageable texture.

Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about a minute. The goal here isn’t perfection; just ensure it’s well combined and slightly elastic. If it looks a bit rough, that’s quite okay!

Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rest in a warm area for about 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. This step allows air bubbles to form, which will make your crust light and airy.

Preheat and Prepare: Once the dough is puffed up, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and position a rack in the lowest part. Lightly grease or line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, ready for those mini pizzas.

Roll and Cut the Dough: Transfer the risen dough to a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a 2.7-inch (7 cm) cookie cutter to cut out circles. You should get about 20 little disks of dough.

Top the Pizzas: Place the dough circles on the prepared baking sheet. Spread about a teaspoon of pizza sauce on top of each, then add a piece of mozzarella. Sprinkle each with oregano and some chopped basil for a burst of flavor.

Bake Until Golden: Slide your baking sheet into the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Watch them closely! You’re looking for a golden crust with the cheese bubbling around the edges. The smell will be amazing!

Serve & Enjoy: Once they’re perfectly crispy, take them out and let them cool for a minute. Drizzle with extra olive oil, if desired, and garnish with more fresh basil before serving them hot or warm.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your mini pizzas fresh, store any leftovers at room temperature in a sealed container for up to two days. If you want to save them longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. For freezing, wrap each mini pizza in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to three months! When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in a preheated oven at about 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste. Just be aware that the crust might lose some of its initial crunch, so a quick drizzle of olive oil can help refresh the flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid over-kneading the dough. You want it to be smooth but not overly stiff.
If using active dry yeast, make sure to dissolve it in warm water beforehand for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy.
Keep an eye on your mini pizzas as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven. The ultimate test is golden brown edges!
Experiment with different toppings; think outside the box with veggies, meats, or even fruits if you feel adventurous!
Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the herbs; they make a significant difference.

The crispy crust, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and fresh basil combine for a delightful mini pizza experience. You can easily adapt them to suit everyone at your table, whether it’s a classic Margherita, pepperoni, loaded veggie feast, or a creative new combo! Don’t hesitate to play with the recipe and make it your own.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be a healthier option and adds a nutty flavor to the crust. You might want to adjust the liquid slightly as it tends to absorb more water.

How do I ensure my mini pizzas don’t get soggy?

To avoid sogginess, make sure not to over-sauce them. A thin layer of sauce is perfect. Additionally, baking them on a preheated surface can help keep the base crispy.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for the best results.

What are some fun topping ideas?

Get creative! Try BBQ chicken, goat cheese with caramelized onions, or a classic pepperoni. Caramelized vegetables or even a sweet pizza topped with fresh fruits and a drizzle of honey can also be delightful!

Happy cooking, and may your mini pizzas turn out delightful! Enjoy every delicious bite!