Blaze Pizza is a fast-casual pizza chain that was founded in 2011 by Rick and Elise Wetzel. The concept behind Blaze Pizza is to offer customers a customizable pizza experience, where they can choose from a variety of toppings and sauces to create their own unique pizza. One of the standout features of Blaze Pizza is their Original Dough Balls, which are small balls of dough that are made fresh in-house every day.
The Original Dough Balls recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it is known to include high-quality ingredients such as flour, water, yeast, salt, and olive oil. The dough is mixed and kneaded until it reaches the perfect consistency, and then it is rolled into small balls and baked until golden brown. The result is a soft and chewy dough that is perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or enjoying on its own.
Key Takeaways
- Blaze Pizza’s Original Dough Balls are a delicious and versatile recipe that can be used for a variety of dishes.
- The ingredients needed for the recipe are simple and easy to find, including flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and water.
- Following the step-by-step instructions for making the dough balls is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
- Tips for kneading and rolling out the dough include using a floured surface and letting the dough rest before shaping.
- Properly storing the dough balls in the fridge or freezer can help extend their shelf life and make them easy to use for future meals.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
To make Blaze Pizza’s Original Dough Balls at home, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the recipe. The all-purpose flour provides structure and texture to the dough, while the warm water activates the yeast and helps the dough rise. The yeast is responsible for leavening the dough and giving it a light and airy texture. The salt enhances the flavor of the dough, while the olive oil adds richness and moisture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Dough Balls
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
2. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and a dough begins to form.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
6. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rest for about 15 minutes.
7. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake the dough balls for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Tips for Kneading and Rolling Out the Dough
Kneading the dough is an important step in achieving the perfect texture and consistency for your dough balls. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
– Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. Repeat this motion, turning the dough a quarter turn each time, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
– If the dough is sticking to your hands or the surface, lightly dust it with flour as needed.
– Avoid adding too much flour to the dough, as this can make it dry and tough.
– When rolling out the dough balls, use gentle pressure and roll from the center outwards. This will help create an even thickness and prevent the dough from tearing.
It’s important to note that over-kneading the dough can result in a tough texture, so be mindful not to overwork it. The goal is to develop gluten strands without overstretching them.
How to Properly Store the Dough Balls
If you have leftover dough balls or want to make them ahead of time, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Here are some best practices for storing the dough balls:
– Place the cooled dough balls in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
– Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– To freeze the dough balls, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container.
– Frozen dough balls can be stored for up to 3 months.
– When ready to use, thaw the dough balls in the refrigerator overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
Variations to the Original Recipe
While Blaze Pizza’s Original Dough Balls are delicious on their own, you can also customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:
– Add herbs and spices: Mix in dried herbs such as oregano, basil, or rosemary, along with garlic powder or onion powder, to add extra flavor to the dough.
– Incorporate different cheeses: Fold grated Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella cheese into the dough for a cheesy twist.
– Experiment with different flours: Substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, bread flour, or gluten-free flour for a different texture and flavor.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to make the dough balls your own.
Serving Suggestions for the Dough Balls
Blaze Pizza’s Original Dough Balls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
– Serve as an appetizer: Arrange the dough balls on a platter and serve them with marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping.
– Make mini pizzas: Flatten the dough balls and top them with your favorite pizza toppings, such as sauce, cheese, and vegetables. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
– Use as a base for sliders: Slice the dough balls in half and use them as buns for mini sliders. Fill with your choice of protein, cheese, and condiments.
– Make dessert bites: Roll the dough balls in cinnamon sugar before baking for a sweet treat. Serve with a side of chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving these delicious dough balls.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
Q: Can I make the dough balls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use. Just make sure to follow the proper storage instructions mentioned earlier.
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. However, keep in mind that instant yeast does not need to be proofed in warm water before using.
Q: My dough is not rising. What could be the problem?
A: There are a few possible reasons why your dough may not be rising. First, make sure that your yeast is fresh and not expired. Additionally, ensure that the water you used to activate the yeast was warm but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast. Finally, check that you allowed enough time for the dough to rise in a warm environment.
Health Benefits of Homemade Dough Balls
Homemade dough balls offer several health benefits compared to store-bought options. Here are some reasons why making your own dough balls can be a healthier choice:
– Control over ingredients: By making your own dough balls, you have control over the quality and type of ingredients used. You can choose organic or whole grain flours, reduce the amount of salt, and avoid any additives or preservatives commonly found in store-bought dough.
– Portion control: Making your own dough balls allows you to control the size of each ball, which can help with portion control and prevent overeating.
– Freshness: Homemade dough balls are made fresh and do not contain any added preservatives. This ensures that you are consuming a fresher product with better flavor and texture.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts on the Recipe
Blaze Pizza’s Original Dough Balls are a delicious and versatile addition to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you can recreate these tasty treats at home. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer, use them as a base for mini pizzas, or get creative with your own variations, these dough balls are sure to be a hit.
By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided in this article, you can achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your homemade dough balls. Experiment with different herbs, spices, cheeses, and flours to customize the recipe to your liking. And don’t forget to store any leftovers properly to maintain their freshness.
So why not give Blaze Pizza’s Original Dough Balls recipe a try? You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make these delicious treats at home. Enjoy!
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FAQs
What are Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls?
Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls are small balls of pizza dough that are used to make the crust for Blaze Pizza’s signature pizzas.
What is the recipe for Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls?
The recipe for Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls includes flour, water, yeast, salt, and sugar. The dough is mixed and then allowed to rise before being formed into small balls.
Can I make Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls at home?
Yes, the recipe for Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls is available online and can be made at home with the right ingredients and equipment.
What equipment do I need to make Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls?
To make Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls, you will need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a stand mixer or hand mixer, and a baking sheet.
How long does it take to make Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls?
The process of making Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls takes about 2 hours from start to finish, including rising time.
What can I do with Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls?
Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls can be used to make pizza crusts, breadsticks, or other baked goods that require pizza dough.
Are Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls vegan?
Yes, Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls are vegan as they do not contain any animal products.
Are Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls gluten-free?
No, Blaze Pizza Original Dough Balls are not gluten-free as they are made with wheat flour.
