How to Proof Pizza Dough: A Step-by-Step Guide

Everyone says you need to let your pizza dough proof, but what exactly does this mean? Well, keep reading and we’ll give you a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the perfect pizza every time.

Proofing your pizza dough is one of the most important steps in creating a light, airy, and perfectly textured pizza. If you’re using Letizza’s snap frozen dough balls, the whole process is so quick and easy, we’ve taken out all of the guess work for you! No knead to sacrifice on quality or flavour, pun intended 😉

Here’s everything you need to know about proofing pizza dough, whether you’re using Letizza’s ready-to-go frozen dough balls or making your dough from scratch.

Why Proofing is Essential

Proofing your dough properly can have a great impact on the texture or flavour of your pizza. To break it down into technical terms, it’s the process where yeasts ferments, causing the dough to rise and form the soft, airy base we all love.

When using Letizza’s dough balls, proofing becomes hassle-free. You don’t need to worry about kneading or complex preparation—simply follow the steps below for the best results.

Letizza’s Dough Ball Proofing Method

Letizza’s snap frozen dough balls come pre-portioned for convenience. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have perfectly proofed dough ready to stretch and bake. We have 2 options for proofing for you to choose from: 1. From Frozen & 2. Fridge Chilled Environment:

From Frozen:

1. Prepare the tray: Place frozen dough balls on a tray that’s been sprinkled with flour or semolina.
2. Spread out the dough: Ensure the dough balls are spread out and not right next to each other, as when they proof they will expand.
3. Ambient proofing: Leave in a shady part of the kitchen (not direct sunlight)
4. Once on tray or your proofing container, place a tea towel over the dough balls, to create the best humid environment for the yeast to start doing it’s work.
5. Proofing Time: Leave on the bench for 2-4 hours.
6. Test: Feel the dough, as soon as it’s soft like a pillow your dough is ready to be stretched, it should also feel warm, not cold.

Fridge Chilled Environment

For best results, defrost Letizza dough balls in the refrigerator for 1-3 days. Before proofing:

1. Dust the dough balls with semolina or flour.
2. Remove them from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature for 2-3 hours before use.

Stretching Tips

Once the dough is proofed, it’s time to stretch and shape it. Here’s how to do it like a pro:

• Work from the middle outward to avoid over handling the edges.
• Use your hands to gently stretch the dough instead of rolling it, as this helps preserves the airy texture.
• Only use a small amount of flour on your fingers to prevent sticking.
• Remember, less is more when working with Letizza’s dough balls. They’ve been designed for easy handling and minimal waste, making them a favourite in professional kitchens across Sydney.

Why Choose Letizza Dough Balls?

Letizza’s frozen dough balls take all the guesswork out of pizza-making, and BONUS they are:

• Vegan-Friendly: Suitable for all dietary preferences.
• Versatile: Ideal for various cooking methods, including wood-fired, gas, and electric ovens.
• Australian-Made: Proudly using Australian flour.
• Time-Saving: No need for kneading or lengthy preparation.
• Consistent Results: Trusted by some of Sydney’s most demanding commercial kitchens.

Proofing Pizza Dough from Scratch

If you’re making your dough from scratch, the proofing process will take more time but definitely still achievable whether you’re a chef, or a home cook. Follow these tips:

1. Create a Warm Environment
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot.
2. Check for Proper Proofing
The dough should double in size and feel soft and elastic. Use the “poke test”—press the dough lightly; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Every Time

• Use only as much flour as needed to prevent sticking, adding too much can make the dough tough and hard to work with.
• For a crispier crust, preheat your oven or pizza stone 30 minutes before baking.

Ready to give Letizza a try? Check out our Frozen Dough Balls and experience the difference for yourself!