Bread and pizza are two of the most beloved foods around the world. They both have dough as the main ingredient, but the dough for each food is not the same. In fact, bread dough and pizza dough have some significant differences that make them unique in their own right. In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences between bread dough vs pizza dough, including the types of dough, hydration levels, protein content, rising time, preparation process, and more. We’ll also explore some of the best pizza dough recipes you can make at home to achieve that perfect pizza crust.
Types of Dough: Purpose Flour vs Bread Flour
One of the main differences between bread dough and pizza dough is the type of flour used. Bread dough is typically made with bread flour, while pizza dough can be made with purpose flour or bread flour. Bread flour has a higher protein content than purpose flour, which makes it better for developing gluten and creating a chewy texture.
Pizza crust: Thin vs Chewy
Another key difference between bread dough and pizza dough is the end result. Bread dough is typically baked at a lower temperature for a longer period of time, resulting in a crispy crust. On the other hand, pizza dough is usually baked at a higher temperature for a shorter time, resulting in a thin, chewy crust.
Bread Dough vs Pizza Dough – Hydration Levels: More or Less Water
Hydration levels are also different between bread dough and pizza dough. Bread dough typically has a higher hydration level, which means it has more water. This makes the dough easier to knead and results in a higher rise. On the other hand, pizza dough usually has less water, which makes it easier to work with and results in a thinner crust.
Rising Time: Shorter or Longer
The rising time for bread dough and pizza dough is also different. Bread dough usually requires a longer rising time, while pizza dough can be ready to bake in as little as 30 minutes.
Preparation Process: Stand Mixer vs Rolling Pin
The preparation process for bread dough and pizza dough can also differ. Bread dough is typically kneaded by hand or with a stand mixer, while pizza dough can be made with a rolling pin.
Pizza Stone vs Pizza Pan
When it comes to baking, the tools used for bread dough and pizza dough can also differ. Bread is usually baked on a baking sheet, while pizza is traditionally baked on a pizza stone. However, you can also use a pizza pan to bake pizza.
Best Flour: White Flour vs Whole Wheat Flour
While both bread and pizza dough can be made with different types of flour, some flours work better than others. For bread dough, bread flour is the best choice, while for pizza dough, a combination of purpose flour and bread flour can work well. For a healthier option, you can also use whole wheat flour for both bread and pizza dough.
Pizza Dough Recipes
Now that we’ve explored some of the key differences between bread dough and pizza dough, let’s dive into some pizza dough recipes you can make at home.
Classic Pizza Dough Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups purpose flour
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add olive oil and warm water to the bowl, and mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and add your favorite toppings.
- Bake the pizza for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Neapolitan-Style Pizza Dough Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil to the bowl and stir until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for at least 6 hours at room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 500°F.
- On a floured surface, shape the dough into a round pizza base and add your favorite toppings.
- Bake the pizza for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Focaccia Dough Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add olive oil and warm water to the bowl, and mix until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise for 1-2 hours at room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Brush the top of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and rosemary.
- Bake the focaccia for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Final Thoughts about Bread Dough vs Pizza Dough
Bread dough and pizza dough have some key differences that make them unique in their own right. Understanding the type of flour, hydration levels, rising time, and preparation process can help you create the perfect dough for your favorite recipe.
Whether you prefer a thin, chewy or crispy crust, making your own pizza dough at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create delicious pizzas, calzones, cheese sticks, and even cinnamon rolls using your own homemade dough. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up some flour and give it a try. Who knows, you might discover your new favorite pizza dough recipe.
Learn more about pizza dough vs pretzel dough.