Can You Use KitchenAid Mixer to Make Pizza Dough? A Complete Guide

Are you craving homemade pizza but dreading the thought of kneading dough by hand? You’re in luck! Your trusty KitchenAid mixer can be your secret weapon for making perfect pizza dough. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to use your KitchenAid mixer to create delicious, restaurant-quality pizza dough right in your own kitchen.

Why Use a KitchenAid Mixer for Pizza Dough?

Before we dive into the details, let’s address the burning question: Can you use KitchenAid mixer to make pizza dough? The answer is a resounding yes! In fact, using a KitchenAid mixer for pizza dough offers several advantages:

1. Consistency: The mixer ensures all ingredients are thoroughly combined, resulting in a uniform dough.
2. Time-saving: It takes the hard work out of kneading, saving you time and energy.
3. Versatility: With various attachments, your KitchenAid mixer can handle different stages of dough preparation.
4. Precision: The controlled mixing speed helps achieve the perfect dough texture.

Now that we’ve established the benefits, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making pizza dough with your KitchenAid mixer.

The Perfect Pizza Dough Recipe for Your KitchenAid Mixer

Before we start mixing, let’s review what you’ll need. This recipe yields two 12-14 inch pizza crusts, perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups warm water
• Cornmeal (for dusting the pan)

Essential Tools:

• KitchenAid Artisan Series Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
• Tilt Head 6-Wire Whip attachment
• 3.5 QT Coater Dough Hook
• Aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or clean hand towel
• Large bowl for proofing
• Rolling pin (optional)

Directions

Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of using your KitchenAid mixer to make pizza dough.

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Start by combining the yeast, warm water, and sugar in your KitchenAid mixer bowl. This mixture will activate the yeast, giving your dough its rise and flavor.
2. Attach the 6-Wire Whip and gently whisk the mixture. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that your yeast is active and ready to go.
3. Next, add the flour and salt to your mixing bowl. Switch to the beater blade attachment and mix on low speed until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated with the yeast mixture.
4. Once combined, add the olive oil and continue to beat until it’s fully mixed in. The olive oil adds flavor and helps create a tender crust.
5. Now comes the crucial part – kneading the dough. Replace the beater blade with the dough hook attachment. This is where your KitchenAid mixer really shines in pizza dough making.
6. Knead the dough on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know the dough is ready when it forms a smooth, elastic ball that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If you’re unsure, try the “windowpane test”: take a small piece of dough and stretch it between your fingers. If it forms a thin, translucent “windowpane” without breaking, it’s properly kneaded.
7. Once kneaded, it’s time to let the dough rest and rise. This process, called proofing, allows the yeast to work its magic, creating those delightful air bubbles that give pizza crust its characteristic texture.
8. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This slow, cold fermentation enhances the flavor of your dough.

Step 2: Stretching and Shaping the Pizza Dough

After your dough has rested and risen, it’s time to shape it into pizza crusts. Here’s how:

1. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to work with.
2. Divide the dough into two equal portions for two pizzas.
3. On a lightly floured surface, use your hands or a rolling pin to gently flatten each portion into a disk.
4. Place the disk on a pizza pan or baking sheet dusted with cornmeal. The cornmeal prevents sticking and adds a nice crunch to the bottom of your crust.
5. Using your hands, stretch the dough outward from the center, rotating as you go, until you achieve your desired size and thickness. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly round – homemade pizzas are all about rustic charm!
6. If the dough springs back too much, let it rest for a few minutes before continuing to stretch.

Step 3: Adding Toppings and Baking Your Pizza

Now comes the fun part – adding toppings and baking your pizza!

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. Spread your favorite sauce over the stretched dough, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust.
3. Add your choice of toppings. While classic combinations like margherita (tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil) are always a hit, don’t be afraid to get creative! Try unconventional toppings like prosciutto and fig, or BBQ chicken and cheddar.
4. Bake your pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
5. Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Dough Every Time

To ensure you get the best results when using your KitchenAid mixer to make pizza dough, keep these tips in mind:

1. Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the dough come together more easily.
2. Don’t rush the proofing: Allowing your dough to rise slowly in the refrigerator develops better flavor.
3. Experiment with flour types: While all-purpose flour works well, try bread flour for a chewier crust or whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
4. Keep the dough sticky: A slightly sticky dough will result in a lighter, airier crust. If your dough is too dry, add water a tablespoon at a time.
5. Let the dough rest if it’s hard to shape: If your dough keeps springing back when you try to stretch it, let it rest for 5-10 minutes and try again.
6. Preheat your oven thoroughly: A hot oven is crucial for a crispy crust. Preheat for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Troubleshooting Common Pizza Dough Issues

Even with a KitchenAid mixer, you might encounter some challenges when making pizza dough. Here are some common issues and how to solve them:

1. Dough is too sticky: Add flour, a little at a time, while the mixer is running.
2. Dough is too dry: Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
3. Dough isn’t rising: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. Also, check that your water isn’t too hot, as this can kill the yeast.
4. Crust is tough: You may have over-kneaded the dough. Next time, reduce the kneading time.
5. Crust is soggy: Avoid overloading with toppings, especially wet ones. You can also try par-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding toppings.

Exploring Beyond Basic Pizza Dough

Once you’ve mastered basic pizza dough with your KitchenAid mixer, why not experiment? Try these variations:

1. Herb-infused dough: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to your dry ingredients for extra flavor.
2. Garlic Parmesan crust: Mix in minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese for a flavor-packed crust.
3. Whole grain dough: Replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat or rye flour for a nuttier taste and added nutrition.
4. Gluten-free options: Experiment with gluten-free flour blends to cater to dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

So, can you use KitchenAid mixer to make pizza dough? Absolutely! Not only can you use it, but your KitchenAid mixer can be your best ally in creating perfectly kneaded, deliciously crispy pizza dough. By following this guide and using your KitchenAid mixer, you’ll be crafting restaurant-quality pizzas in no time.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t flawless. With each pizza you make, you’ll gain more experience and confidence. Before long, you’ll be impressing friends and family with your homemade pizza skills, all thanks to your trusty KitchenAid mixer.

So, fire up that mixer, grab your favorite toppings, and get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of creating your very own perfect pizza from scratch. Happy baking!