Whole Wheat Pizza Crust Recipe

When we first got married, I just bought the pizza crust mixes from Walmart when I wanted to make a homemade pizza. But when we brought some whole wheat flour home from my parents’ house, I decided to search for a healthier alternative. This crust is delicious and not very difficult to make. It does take more time than a mix does, but it’s worth it!

Whole Wheat Pizza Crust

1 cup all-purpose flour (note: I now use 2 cups whole wheat flour)
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 pkg. instant yeast
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
8 oz. warm (110 degrees) water
2 Tbsp. olive oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray pizza pan with non-stick cooking spray (not usually needed if using an AirBake). Combine all dry ingredients, except whole wheat flour, in a large mixing bowl. Next, add liquids and gradually add whole wheat flour until dough mixture becomes stiff and hard to stir. You may not have to use all the whole wheat flour. However, if needed, you may add more flour to make the dough less sticky. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and set aside for 20-25 minutes, allowing the dough to rise. Empty dough out onto a clean, floured surface. Knead by hand 6-8 times, adding flour to the surface as needed to keep the dough from sticking. Roll into desired shape and thickness. Place rolled dough onto prepared pizza pan. Bake crust (by itself) for 5-6 minutes. Remove; top as desired. Continue baking pizza for additional 15-20 minutes (depending on crust thickness), or until crust is thoroughly done and cheese has melted.

P.S. Here are some of our favorite toppings (we don’t use a sauce):
– cheddar cheese
– mozzarella cheese
– Italian cheese blend
– garlic salt (just a sprinkle!)
– fresh spinach
– tomatoes
– bacon
– chicken
– ham
– mushrooms- sauteed onions and/or red peppers