The Ultimate Pizza Base Guide
Who doesn’t love pizza? Whether you enjoy a thin, crispy crust or a thick, chewy base, the pizza dough is the foundation of a great pizza. Choosing the right pizza base makes all the difference in texture, flavour, and how well it holds your favourite toppings.
At Letizza, we take pizza bases seriously, crafting gourmet options inspired by traditional Italian recipes. Whether you’re looking for a classic pizza base, wholemeal, olive-infused, garlic-infused, or gluten-free, we’ve got you covered.
This ultimate pizza base guide will help you understand different pizza dough types, cooking techniques, and how to choose the best base for your next homemade pizza.
What Is a Pizza Base?
A pizza base is the foundation of any pizza. Traditionally, it’s made from flour, yeast, water, and salt, rolled into a circular shape and baked with toppings. The texture and flavour vary based on ingredients, preparation, and cooking methods.
Letizza’s range of gourmet pizza bases includes:
A light, airy dough with the perfect balance of chewiness and crispness.
- Wholemeal base
A healthier option with a slightly nutty flavour.
A great alternative for those avoiding gluten.
If you prefer to customise your pizza base, Letizza dough balls allow you to roll out your perfect shape and thickness.
How Long Should You Cook a Pizza Base?
The right cooking time ensures a crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings.
Best baking techniques for pizza bases:
- Pre-bake the base: Cook it for 5-6 minutes at 250ºC before adding toppings. This prevents a soggy bottom.
- Final bake: After adding toppings, bake for 8-10 minutes in a preheated oven.
- Use a pizza stone: This helps distribute heat evenly, creating a crispier base.
Letizza’s pre-baked pizza bases can go straight into the oven, making homemade pizza even easier!
Can You Freeze Pizza Bases?
Yes! Freezing pizza bases is a great way to preserve freshness.
How to freeze homemade pizza dough:
- Allow the dough to rise fully before freezing.
- Portion into balls, cover, and freeze on a tray for 24 hours.
- Transfer to airtight containers or zip bags for long-term storage.
Letizza’s pre-baked gourmet pizza bases are freezer-friendly for up to 12 months, making them a convenient choice.
Are Pizza Bases Gluten-Free?
Most traditional pizza bases contain wheat, which has gluten. However, gluten-free pizza bases are available for those with dietary restrictions.
Letizza’s gluten-free pizza bases:
- Made with high-quality ingredients.
- Offer a better texture than most gluten-free alternatives.
- Free from artificial flavours and preservatives.
If you’re gluten-sensitive, choosing a high-quality base ensures you won’t miss out on delicious pizza.
Are Pizza Bases Vegan?
Pizza bases can be vegan, but not always. Some may contain milk, butter, or eggs, so checking the ingredients is essential.
Letizza’s vegan pizza bases are 100% plant-based!
- Made with simple, plant-based ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and salt.
- No dairy or animal by-products.
This makes them perfect for plant-based pizza lovers!
Can You Use a Pizza Base After Its Expiry Date?
Using an expired pizza base is not recommended. Over time, dough can become dry, stale, or develop bacteria.
For the best shelf life, choose Letizza’s pre-baked pizza bases, which last:
- 3 months in the pantry
- 12 months in the freezer
Proper storage keeps your bases fresh and ready for delicious homemade pizza anytime.
What Are the Best Sauces for a Pizza Base?
The sauce is just as important as the base! Here are some great choices:
- Classic tomato sauce – Perfect for Margherita or traditional pizzas.
- BBQ sauce – Pairs well with chicken, bacon, and smoky flavours.
- Pesto sauce – Great for Mediterranean-style pizzas.
- White sauce (béchamel or garlic-infused oil) – Ideal for creamy, cheesy pizzas.
How Do You Make a Pizza Base Crispy?
Want a perfectly crispy pizza crust? Follow these tips:
- Pre-bake the base before adding toppings.
- Roll the dough thinner for a crunchier finish.
- Use a pizza stone or preheated baking tray for even heat distribution.
- Drizzle olive oil on the base before baking for extra crispiness.
Do Pizza Bases Contain Eggs?
Traditional pizza dough recipes typically do not contain eggs. The basic ingredients of a pizza base include flour, yeast, water, and salt, making it naturally suitable for those avoiding eggs. Some specialty or enriched dough recipes may include eggs to create a softer texture, but these are less common.
If you’re looking for an egg-free option, Letizza’s pizza bases are made without eggs, ensuring they are suitable for a wide range of dietary needs, including vegan and dairy-free diets.
How Many Calories Are in a Pizza Base?
The number of calories in a pizza base depends on the type and size of the dough. On average, a 6” pizza base (~100g) contains around 250 calories, while a 12” pizza base (~400g) has approximately 1000 calories. Gluten-free pizza bases can vary between 230 to 340 calories per 100g, depending on the ingredients used. If you’re looking for a lighter option, thin crust or wholemeal bases can be a great alternative.
Can You Use Wraps as a Pizza Base?
Yes, wraps can be used as a quick and easy alternative to a traditional pizza base, especially if you prefer an ultra-thin crust. However, since wraps are much thinner than standard pizza dough, they require some adjustments for the best results. To prevent tearing, it’s best to place the wrap directly on a pizza tray before adding toppings.
Additionally, using fewer toppings ensures the wrap doesn’t become too soggy or overloaded. Pre-baking the wrap for a few minutes before adding toppings can help achieve a crispier finish.
Ready to Make the Perfect Pizza?
A great pizza starts with a great base. Whether you prefer thin and crispy, thick and chewy, or gluten-free options, choosing the right dough ensures the best flavour and texture.
With Letizza’s gourmet pizza bases, you can enjoy the perfect crust without the hassle of making dough from scratch. Check out Letizza’s full range of pizza bases and start creating delicious, homemade pizzas today!
Need help choosing the right base? Contact us – we’d love to help!
