Do you like homemade pizza but dislike making fresh dough each time? You can avoid the mess of mixing and kneading. You can either purchase frozen pizza dough from the store or make extra dough and freeze it.
Yet, getting your pizza dough to proof perfectly every time is challenging.
Don’t fret!
In this article, we’ll explain everything about rising frozen pizza dough, from science to valuable methods and tips. We’ll also give you tips to help your frozen pizza dough rise. So, keep reading!
What’s the Science Behind Dough Rising (Important to Know)?
Baking is a fascinating process. And it involves a lot of science. But fear not! Let’s break it down for you.
First things first, pizza dough is made using four major ingredients. These ingredients include water, salt, flour, and yeast. The method for making pizza dough is a breeze. Simply combine all the ingredients together. Then, knead it for a few minutes. And leave it out to rise.
The mixing process helps the salt and yeast to spread evenly across the dough. The next step is kneading. It can make or break the pizza-making process. By forming the gluten protein strands in the flour, it gives the dough more flexibility and strength.
As a result, the dough can take on different shapes. It’s due to this process that the dough is able to hang onto the air bubbles that emerge throughout the rising process. While the dough is resting, it starts to release carbon dioxide bubbles and ethanol. It helps the dough to rise. It also enhances the flavor of the dough.
To make it happen, simply put the dough in a warm and humid place. The warmer the place, the quicker the rise! This process is known as fermentation.
But what would happen if the dough is frozen? Well, the fermentation process is only effective at room temperature. It slows down significantly at lower temperatures. Therefore, it’s best to keep frozen pizza in the refrigerator for 2-3 days before use. This will give it time to rise.
The Primary Problem With Not Rising Frozen Pizza Dough
Making pizza dough might seem like a simple process. But even the slightest mistake can have a significant impact on the dough. It affects how well the dough sets and rises.
The process of dough rising can also be disrupted by other factors. This includes temperature. But don’t worry! You can easily fix it.
Let’s get this straight-you can’t refrigerate or freeze your pizza dough and expect it to turn out perfect; it won’t rise.
This is because yeast requires a warm temperature to become activated. If it fails to activate, the dough will not rise.
This process is called proofing. It’s when you leave your pizza dough out and let it rise at room temperature. Low proofing temperatures can result in the dough staying exactly like before. This can lead to a tough pizza. The crust will be thick and chewy.
The dough might rise slowly or not rise at all if you store it in the freezer. Homemade pizza dough rises best at temperatures between 75-85°F (24-29 °C). The good news is that it’s fixable. Simply place the dough in a sizable bowl. Wrap it in plastic wrap. Then, place the pizza dough in the refrigerator for one to three days.
The dough gets airier and tastier the longer it thaws. No need to worry at all! Just make sure that you’re not using the frozen pizza dough on the same day. Give it some rest in the refrigerator first. You won’t be disappointed!
Ways You Can Rise Frozen Pizza Dough
Nothing’s more disappointing than making pizza dough that won’t rise when you need it. And no, you don’t need to make fresh dough each time! You can use frozen pizza dough. However, you must be prepared for a little effort. You’ll have to thaw and help the pizza dough rise.
Does it sound complicated?
Well, fret no more!
It’s simpler than you can imagine.
We have found you some ways to help you prove your pizza dough. Keep reading!
1. Oven Proofing
It’s the most frequently used approach. You can help your dough rise in the oven in different ways. The simplest one is to select the “proof” setting on your oven. It’ll get the job done perfectly!
Another way is to preheat the oven to the lowest setting. Then wait for two minutes. After that, put the pizza dough (in a glass bowl and wrapped in plastic wrap) inside the oven. Shut the oven off. Leave the door open. The warmth will help raise the pizza dough.
You can also put a glass baking dish on the lowest oven rack and add boiling water to it. Shut the door after placing the dough on the middle or top rack. The heat and humidity will do their job!
2. Microwave Magic
If you want your pizza dough to rise quickly, the microwave is your best friend. It’ll make the rising process a breeze! Here’s what you need to do:
- Add one cup of water to a glass measuring cup.
- Leave it for 2 minutes on high heat.
- When the water starts boiling, place the pizza dough without covering the glass bowl.
- Shut the microwave off.
- The humidity will help the dough rise completely.
3. Slow Cooker
Don’t use your slow cooker often. Well, it’s time to use it! The process is simple!
- Pour water into the slow cooker till it reaches half.
- Set it to a low temperature.
- Now, place the cooker’s lid on backward and put a towel on it.
- After that, place the covered bowl containing the pizza dough on the lid.
- The heat radiation will help the dough to rise.
4. Room Temperature
Let’s say you need to make a pizza, but you don’t want to put in any effort. Well, you can simply defrost and let your dough rise at room temperature. Doesn’t that sound legit? Let us explain how.
- First things first, thaw your pizza dough overnight in the refrigerator.
- If you haven’t thawed the dough, remove it from the freezer the next morning.
- Transfer the dough to a bowl. Wrap the bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Then, leave your pizza dough out for a few hours before baking.
- If you’ve already defrosted the dough overnight, remove it from the refrigerator.
- Simply allow it to rest at room temperature for 15-30 minutes.
What Can be Some Other Reasons for Frozen Pizza Dough Not Rising?
There could be a few reasons why your frozen pizza dough is not rising properly. Here are some possible explanations:
1. Inactive yeast
Check the expiration date on your yeast. If it’s expired or old, it may not be able to activate and cause the dough to rise. Using fresh yeast or active dry yeast can help ensure proper rising.
2. Lack of moisture
If the dough is too dry owing to being left unwrapped, the yeast may struggle to grow and produce carbon dioxide, which is responsible for the rising. Ensure you follow the recommended hydration level for your specific pizza dough recipe.
3. Overhandling or improper kneading
Excessive kneading or handling of the dough can overwork the gluten, preventing proper rising. Follow the instructions for kneading and handling the dough appropriately.
4. Environmental factors
Factors like low humidity or drafty conditions can affect dough rising. Try covering the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to maintain a moist environment.
By addressing these potential issues, you can troubleshoot and increase the chances of achieving a well-risen pizza dough.
FAQs
What is the desired oven temperature for frozen pizza dough?
If you’re using frozen dough for your pizza, aim for 500°F (260°C). Take the dough out of the freezer. Leave it out for 30 minutes at room temperature. Add some cornmeal on a pizza peal and spread out the dough. Add your favorite toppings, and your pizza will be ready for baking!
Can I refreeze the pizza dough if it’s thawed?
The answer is no, you can’t. Refreezing will affect the texture of the crust significantly. It’ll also affect the taste of the pizza. Therefore, we recommend that you don’t refreeze pizza dough if you have already defrosted it once.
What else can I make with frozen pizza dough that is not rising?
You can make several other recipes using unproofed frozen dough. That’s the beauty of frozen pizza dough. You can make a quick and lazy pizza. But wait! Instead of using tomato sauce and pepperoni, you make it a dessert! Apply some Nutella or peanut butter. Then, add the toppings of your liking. You can use marshmallows or any sweet of your choice.
You can also make breadsticks with it. Roll out the dough and cut it into long sticks. Then, brush the sticks with garlic oil. Bake the breadsticks and serve hot!
Another easy snack to make using unrisen frozen pizza dough is crackers. Roll out the dough and cut it into small pieces. Bake the crackers or fry until crispy. Voila!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, you’re not doomed if your pizza dough is not rising. With the right techniques and a little extra effort, you can make delicious pizzas anytime you want. All while using frozen pizza dough!
We hope this article answers all your queries. Are you ready to make some tasty pizzas using frozen dough?
Try it today!
Once you get it right, you’ll never return to your old ways!
So, what are you waiting for?
Invite your friends over for a fun pizza party!
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