Name: Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tsp granulated sugar; 1 tbsp Red Star Platinum yeast; 1½ cups water; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp salt; 3¼ cups whole wheat flour; olive oil

Create a delicious and hearty homemade whole wheat pizza crust with this simple recipe. It's perfect for those who love a touch of rustic flavor and a healthier alternative to traditional pizza dough. The combination of whole wheat flour and olive oil results in a crust that's both crispy and chewy, making it an ideal base for all your favorite toppings.

Photos of Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe

While most ingredients like sugar, olive oil, and salt are commonly found in the kitchen, red star platinum yeast might not be as familiar. This particular type of yeast is known for its reliability and superior rise, making it worth seeking out in the baking aisle of your supermarket. Additionally, whole wheat flour can be found in the specialty or health food section if it's not already in your pantry.

Ingredients For Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and feeds the yeast to help the dough rise.

red star platinum yeast: A premium yeast that ensures a good rise and excellent texture.

water: Used to activate the yeast and bring the dough together.

olive oil: Adds moisture and flavor to the dough while helping to create a tender crust.

honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps the dough brown while baking.

salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.

whole wheat flour: The main ingredient for a healthier, fiber-rich crust.

olive oil: Used for coating the bowl to prevent the dough from sticking while it rises.

One reader, Bernie Currier says:

This homemade whole wheat pizza crust recipe is fantastic! The dough is easy to work with and bakes up perfectly crispy yet chewy. The whole wheat adds a wonderful, nutty flavor that pairs well with any toppings. My family loved it, and it's now our go-to pizza crust recipe!

Bernie Currier

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

How to activate yeast: Combine sugar, yeast, and warm water, then let sit for 5 minutes until foamy and dissolved. How to knead dough: Knead the dough for 5 minutes on a lightly floured surface or with a dough hook until smooth and elastic. How to shape dough: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides. How to punch down dough: Punch the dough to release the air, causing it to deflate. How to flatten dough: Flatten each ball of dough into a 12-inch round circle on a lightly floured surface or directly onto a cornmeal-lined pizza pan or baking sheet. How to create a lip on dough: Lift the edge of the dough to create a lip around the edges before transferring it to the pizza pan, baking sheet, or pizza stone.

How To Make Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

A whole wheat pizza crust that’s as soft and chewy as any other! Whip up this healthier crust for your favorite pizzas with just a handful of ingredients.

Preparation: 2 hours

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 2 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tspgranulated sugar
1tbspRed Star Platinum yeast
1½cupswater,(105 to 115 degrees F), warm
1tbspolive oil
1tbsphoney
1tspsalt
3¼cupswhole wheat flour,spooned and leveled
olive oil,for brushing crust

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a hook attachment, combine the sugar, yeast, and warm water. Stir it around and let sit for 5 minutes or until the yeast is foamy and dissolved. *
Add the olive oil, honey, and salt. Mix by hand with a whisk or with the dough hook on low speed for 30 seconds.
Add 3 cups of whole wheat flour and mix with the dough hook on low speed or with a large rubber spatula until dough starts to come together.
Once mixed, knead for 5 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface or with a dough hook on low-medium speed. After kneading, the dough should be smooth and elastic.
Shape the dough into a ball and place in a large mixing bowl that has been coated lightly with olive oil. Turn it over to coat all sides.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm environment of 75 to 80 degrees F for about 1 to 2 hours.
Punch the dough down to release the air. It will deflate.
Cut the dough into two. Roll each half into a ball and let rest in two separate bowls lightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil for at least 20 minutes.
Preheat oven to 475 degrees F. Allow to heat for at least 30 full minutes.
Grease and dust 2 baking sheets or pizza pans with nonstick spray or with olive oil. Sprinkle with cornmeal or flour.
After 20 minutes, flatten each ball of dough one at a time on a lightly floured surface or directly onto the cornmeal lined pizza pan or baking sheet.
Flatten into a 12-inch round circle, flattening and stretching the dough. If using a pizza stone, place the dough directly on baker’s peels dusted with cornmeal.
Lift the edge of the dough up to create a lip around the edges. Transfer dough to the pizza pan, baking sheet, or pizza stone. Top with favorite toppings.
Bake for 15 minutes or until the crust is lightly browned.
Slice hot pizza and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

*If the yeast doesn’t dissolve, the yeast is dead. Start again with active yeast.

Nutrition

Calories: 207.61kcal
Fat: 4.38g
Saturated Fat: 0.65g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.43g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.89g
Carbohydrates: 38.39g
Fiber: 5.63g
Sugar: 2.88g
Protein: 7.05g
Sodium: 234.61mg
Calcium: 18.69mg
Potassium: 192.74mg
Iron: 1.82mg
Vitamin C: 0.02mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

When working with whole wheat flour, it's important to note that it absorbs more liquid than all-purpose flour. If your dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is achieved. This will ensure your pizza crust remains tender and not overly dense.

Time-Saving Tips for Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to save time during the process.

Use a stand mixer: Let the stand mixer do the kneading to save your energy and time.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is resting to ensure it's ready when you are.

Double the recipe: Make extra dough and freeze half for a quick pizza night later.

Use parchment paper: Roll out the dough on parchment paper for easy transfer to the baking sheet or pizza stone.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe

granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and can help activate the yeast similarly to granulated sugar.
red star platinum yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast is a common alternative that performs similarly in dough recipes.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and softer texture to the dough.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral-flavored oil that can be used in place of olive oil.
honey - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup provides a similar sweetness and consistency to honey.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.
whole wheat flour - Substitute with spelt flour: Spelt flour has a similar nutritional profile and can be used as a whole grain alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is another neutral oil that can be used for brushing the crust.

Best Way to Present Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a hook attachment, combine the granulated sugar, red star platinum yeast, and warm water. Stir it around and let sit for 5 minutes or until the yeast is foamy and dissolved.
Incorporate liquids: Add the olive oil, honey, and salt. Mix by hand with a whisk or with the dough hook on low speed for 30 seconds.
Add flour: Add 3 cups of whole wheat flour and mix with the dough hook on low speed or with a large rubber spatula until dough starts to come together.
Knead the dough: Once mixed, knead for 5 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface or with a dough hook on low-medium speed. After kneading, the dough should be smooth and elastic.
Shape and coat: Shape the dough into a ball and place in a large mixing bowl that has been coated lightly with olive oil. Turn it over to coat all sides.
Allow to rise: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm environment of 75 to 80 degrees F for about 1 to 2 hours.
Deflate the dough: Punch the dough down to release the air. It will deflate.
Divide and rest: Cut the dough into two. Roll each half into a ball and let rest in two separate bowls lightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil for at least 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 475 degrees F. Allow to heat for at least 30 full minutes.
Prepare baking sheets: Grease and dust 2 baking sheets or pizza pans with nonstick spray or with olive oil. Sprinkle with cornmeal or flour.
Flatten the dough: After 20 minutes, flatten each ball of dough one at a time on a lightly floured surface or directly onto the cornmeal-lined pizza pan or baking sheet.
Shape the crust: Flatten into a 12-inch round circle, flattening and stretching the dough. If using a pizza stone, place the dough directly on baker’s peels dusted with cornmeal.
Create a lip: Lift the edge of the dough up to create a lip around the edges. Transfer dough to the pizza pan, baking sheet, or pizza stone. Top with favorite toppings.
Bake the pizza: Bake for 15 minutes or until the crust is lightly browned.
Serve immediately: Slice hot pizza and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Essential Tools for Making Whole Wheat Pizza Crust at Home

Mixing bowl: A large container used to combine ingredients, especially useful for mixing the yeast, sugar, and water, and later for kneading the dough.
Stand mixer: An electric mixer with a dough hook attachment that helps in mixing and kneading the dough efficiently.
Dough hook: A specialized attachment for the stand mixer designed to knead dough, making the process easier and more consistent.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used to blend ingredients smoothly, especially useful for mixing olive oil, honey, and salt into the yeast mixture.
Rubber spatula: A flexible tool used to scrape the sides of the mixing bowl and to help mix the dough together.
Plastic wrap: A thin plastic film used to cover the mixing bowl, helping to create a warm environment for the dough to rise.
Baking sheet: A flat metal tray used to bake the pizza, often greased and dusted with cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking.
Pizza pan: A round metal pan specifically designed for baking pizza, providing even heat distribution.
Pizza stone: A flat stone slab that retains heat well, used to bake pizza for a crispy crust.
Baker’s peel: A flat, shovel-like tool used to transfer pizza dough to and from the pizza stone.
Cornmeal: A coarse flour used to dust the baking sheet or pizza stone, preventing the dough from sticking.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and stretch the dough into a round shape.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used to bake the pizza at a high temperature, ensuring the crust becomes lightly browned.
Knife: A sharp tool used to cut the dough into two equal parts and later to slice the baked pizza.
Measuring cups: Tools used to measure the exact amount of ingredients like water, flour, and olive oil.
Measuring spoons: Small spoons used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like sugar, yeast, honey, and salt.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped dough balls in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen pizza dough, remove it from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours or overnight. Once thawed, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and stretching it into your desired pizza crust shape.
If you plan to use the pizza dough within a few days, you can store the wrapped dough balls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to use, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and stretching.
For a quick and easy option, you can also pre-bake the pizza crusts before storing or freezing them. After shaping the dough into your desired crust shape, bake it in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow the pre-baked crusts to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To use a pre-baked crust, simply remove it from the refrigerator or freezer, add your desired toppings, and bake in a preheated oven at 475°F (245°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.
When storing whole wheat pizza dough or pre-baked crusts, make sure they are tightly wrapped to prevent drying out and absorbing other flavors from the refrigerator or freezer.

How to Reheat Leftover Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pizza on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the crust while evenly heating the toppings.
For a quicker option, use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the leftover pizza in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method helps to create a crispy crust while melting the cheese and heating the toppings.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your leftover pizza. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza on the toaster oven tray and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method is perfect for reheating small amounts of pizza.
For a unique twist, try reheating your leftover pizza on a grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the pizza directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Grill for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the cheese is melted. This method adds a smoky flavor to your pizza while crisping up the crust.
If you want to maintain the softness of the crust, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover pizza on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the pizza is heated through. To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, place a glass of water in the microwave alongside the pizza. The water will help to absorb excess moisture.

Interesting Fact About Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

A random fact about this recipe is that using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour not only adds a nutty flavor but also increases the nutritional value by providing more fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Is Making Whole Wheat Pizza Crust at Home Cost-Effective?

Creating a homemade whole wheat pizza crust is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like whole wheat flour, olive oil, and yeast are inexpensive and often already present in most kitchens. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $5-$7, considering you might need to purchase some items. Given the health benefits and the ability to customize toppings with fresh vegetables or meat, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Is Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Healthy or Unhealthy?

This homemade whole wheat pizza crust recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional pizza crusts made with refined flour. The use of whole wheat flour provides additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals compared to all-purpose flour. However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe includes honey and sugar, which add extra calories and carbohydrates. While the amounts are relatively small, they could be reduced or eliminated to lower the overall sugar content.
Olive oil is a healthy fat, but the recipe calls for it to be used in the dough, for coating the bowl, and for greasing the baking sheets. The total amount of oil could be reduced to decrease the calorie content.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the honey and sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit extract, which have little to no calories or carbohydrates
Experiment with reducing the amount of olive oil used in the dough and for greasing the surfaces, or try using a non-stick cooking spray instead
Incorporate other whole grain flours, such as quinoa or spelt, to increase the nutritional value and add variety to the texture and flavor of the crust
Top the pizza with a variety of colorful vegetables to boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the overall meal

Editor's Opinion on This Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe

This homemade whole wheat pizza crust recipe is a wholesome and flavorful alternative to traditional crusts. The use of honey adds a subtle sweetness that complements the nuttiness of the whole wheat flour. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish. Allowing the dough to rise properly results in a light and airy texture, while the high baking temperature ensures a crispy exterior. Overall, this recipe is a fantastic choice for those looking to make a healthier pizza without compromising on taste or texture.

Enhance Your Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Broccoli: Imagine the delightful crunch of broccoli florets, roasted to perfection with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic. This side dish adds a savory, aromatic touch that complements the hearty whole wheat pizza crust beautifully.

Caprese Salad: A vibrant Caprese Salad featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, drizzled with a balsamic reduction. This refreshing and colorful salad brings a burst of freshness that pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the pizza.

Lemon Herb Quinoa: Elevate your meal with a bowl of quinoa infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs. This light and fluffy side dish offers a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the whole wheat pizza crust, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of Creamy Tomato Basil Soup. The rich, velvety tomato base, accented with fresh basil, creates a cozy and satisfying pairing that enhances the overall dining experience with your homemade pizza.

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: Delight in the sweet and tangy flavors of grilled peaches combined with peppery arugula. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this salad adds a unique and refreshing twist that perfectly balances the savory notes of your whole wheat pizza.

Alternative Recipes to Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

Whole Wheat Garlic Knots: Transform your pizza dough into delightful garlic knots. Brush with a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and parsley before baking. Perfect as a side or appetizer!

Whole Wheat Calzones: Stuff your pizza dough with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and your favorite vegetables or meats. Fold, seal, and bake until golden brown for a handheld meal.

Whole Wheat Breadsticks: Roll the dough into long sticks, brush with olive oil, and sprinkle with parmesan and herbs. Bake until crispy and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Whole Wheat Focaccia: Press the dough into a baking sheet, dimple with your fingers, and drizzle with olive oil. Top with rosemary, sea salt, and cherry tomatoes for a flavorful flatbread.

Whole Wheat Stromboli: Roll out the dough, layer with cheese, pepperoni, and veggies. Roll it up, seal the edges, and bake until golden. Slice and serve for a hearty meal.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a harmonious bite that's sure to impress. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful crunch and a burst of umami. Serve these warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with a classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with a hint of garlic for an aromatic base. Pile on a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil. A touch of balsamic glaze drizzled over the top adds a sweet and tangy finish. This simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of freshness in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes out as you cut into it. This decadent treat is perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors. The rich, velvety texture of the chocolate lava cake combined with the cold, creamy ice cream creates a heavenly dessert experience. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Transport your taste buds to a sunny day with a zesty lemon meringue pie. The tart lemon filling is perfectly balanced by a sweet, fluffy meringue topping that is lightly toasted to golden perfection. This classic dessert is ideal for those who love a refreshing citrus flavor. Pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. The crisp, buttery crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite, making the lemon meringue pie a timeless favorite. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender or basil for a unique flavor profile.

Why trust this Homemade Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe:

This recipe for homemade whole wheat pizza crust is a tried-and-true method that guarantees a delicious, healthy base for your favorite toppings. Using whole wheat flour ensures a nutritious option, while olive oil and honey add a touch of flavor and moisture. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, even for beginners. Plus, the use of red star platinum yeast ensures a perfect rise every time. Trust this recipe for a wholesome, satisfying pizza experience.

Want to share your experience with this homemade whole wheat pizza crust recipe or have any tips to make it even better? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How warm should the water be for the yeast?

The water should be warm, around 110°F (43°C). If it's too hot, it can kill the yeast, and if it's too cold, the yeast won't activate properly.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just skip the step where you let the yeast sit and foam. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

How do I know if the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size. You can test it by gently pressing your finger into the dough. If the indentation stays, it's ready.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Absolutely! After the first rise, divide the dough into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

What if I don't have a pizza stone?

No worries! You can use a regular baking sheet or pizza pan. Just make sure to grease it and sprinkle with cornmeal or flour to prevent sticking.