Pizza is the ultimate comfort food, and making it from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience. When you use an air fryer, you can achieve that crispy crust without the need for a traditional oven. Plus, it’s a quicker method that yields delicious results. This Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch recipe is not only simple but also customizable to fit your taste buds. Let’s dive into the details!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works beautifully because it combines the convenience of an air fryer with the traditional elements of pizza making. The air fryer circulates hot air around the pizza, creating a perfectly crispy crust while keeping the toppings warm and gooey. Making the dough from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, ensuring a fresh and wholesome pizza experience. With the right ratios of flour, yeast, and water, you’ll find that the dough rises perfectly, resulting in a delightful base for your favorite toppings.
What’s in the Bowl
To make your Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (not hot)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 18 to 20 slices of pepperoni
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Tools of the Trade
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools:
- Mixing bowl – For combining the dough ingredients.
- Air fryer – The star of the show, ensuring your pizza cooks evenly.
- Rolling pin – For rolling out the dough to your desired thickness.
- Pizza cutter – To slice your masterpiece into perfect pieces.
- Spatula – Useful for transferring the pizza to and from the air fryer.
With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to make the best Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch.
Directions: Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, which will help the dough rise.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the flour mixture along with 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza sauce. In a bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step 6: Shape the Pizza
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Make sure it fits your air fryer basket.
Step 7: Assemble the Pizza
Brush the rolled-out dough with the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Spread a generous amount of your prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle the mozzarella and gouda cheese evenly on top, followed by the pepperoni slices.
Step 8: Cook the Pizza
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully place the pizza in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pizza from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute. Use a pizza cutter to slice it into wedges, and serve hot.
International Equivalents
If you’re cooking from different parts of the world, here are some equivalents that may help:
- 1 cup = 240 ml
- 2 teaspoons = 10 ml
- 1 tablespoon = 15 ml
- 1 teaspoon = 5 ml
- All-purpose flour = plain flour in some countries
Avoid These Traps
Making pizza can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using hot water instead of warm can kill the yeast.
- Don’t skip the resting time for the dough; it’s essential for the rise.
- Overloading the toppings can lead to a soggy pizza.
- Not preheating the air fryer can result in uneven cooking.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This recipe can be made ahead of time! Here are some tips:
- The dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
- Cooked pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftover pizza in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a crispy crust.
Ask the Chef
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may result in a denser crust. You may need to adjust the water content slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the pizza in a conventional oven at 450°F (232°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Can I freeze the pizza dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a zip-top bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
How can I customize my pizza toppings?
The beauty of pizza is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, meats, or even switch the cheeses. For more ideas, check out Caprese Tortilla Pizzas 15 Minute or Pumpkin Spinach Stuffed Shells for inspiration!
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The Takeaway
Creating your own pizza from scratch using an air fryer is an enjoyable culinary adventure. With this Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch recipe, you can unleash your creativity and experiment with toppings while enjoying a crispy, golden crust. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this pizza is sure to impress! Enjoy the fresh flavors and the satisfaction of homemade goodness.
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Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (not hot)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 18 to 20 slices pepperoni
Instructions
Directions: Air Fryer Pizza from Scratch
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the flour mixture along with 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza sauce. In a bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Brush the rolled-out dough with the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Spread a generous amount of your prepared sauce over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle the mozzarella and gouda cheese evenly on top, followed by the pepperoni slices.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully place the pizza in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the pizza from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute. Use a pizza cutter to slice it into wedges, and serve hot.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Air Fryer
- Rolling Pin
- Pizza Cutter
- Spatula
Notes
- For a crispier crust, consider preheating your air fryer before placing the pizza inside.
- Customize your toppings to fit your flavor profile; the possibilities are endless!
- Store leftover pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
