Gluten-Free Pizza Dough Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (ensure it has xanthan gum, or add 1 tsp xanthan gum separately)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (around 110°F)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tenderness)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture is foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and helps the dough rise properly.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour and salt. Make a well in the center, then add the foamy yeast mixture, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well until the dough starts to come together. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time; if it’s too dry, add a little more warm water.
3. Knead the Dough: Use a stand mixer with a dough hook, or knead by hand for 2–3 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Gluten-free doughs are typically softer than traditional doughs but should hold together without crumbling.
4. First Rise: Lightly grease a bowl, place the dough inside, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30–45 minutes. It won’t rise as much as gluten-based dough, but it should become slightly puffy.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to preheat as well for a crispier crust.
6. Shape the Dough: Place the risen dough on a piece of parchment paper. Sprinkle a little flour on the dough and roll it out to your desired thickness, typically about ¼-inch thick for a standard crust. For a thinner crust, roll it out even more.
7. Par-Bake the Crust: Transfer the rolled-out dough (on the parchment paper) onto the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Par-bake the crust for 7–10 minutes until it starts to firm up and turn golden.
8. Add Toppings and Bake: Remove the crust from the oven, add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden.
9. Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious gluten-free pizza with a perfectly crispy crust!

Tips for Best Results:

• For added flavor, sprinkle some Italian herbs or garlic powder into the dough.
• Store any leftover dough in the fridge for up to 24 hours, or freeze it for future use.

Enjoy making your homemade gluten-free pizza!