Pizza lovers, rejoice! This Einkorn pizza dough recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a healthy, chewy, and flavorful pizza crust. Using Einkorn pizza dough makes your homemade pizza easier to digest while still giving that classic Italian texture everyone loves. Whether you are new to sourdough or a seasoned baker, this Einkorn pizza dough is simple to make and works beautifully for family pizza nights. The beauty of Einkorn pizza dough is that it combines ancient grains with modern convenience, creating a crust that is both nutritious and delicious. By using this Einkorn pizza dough, you can enjoy pizza that tastes amazing and supports your digestive health.
Why You’ll Love This Einkorn Pizza Dough
This Einkorn pizza dough is a perfect blend of health and taste. It is made with heirloom grains that are easier to digest than regular flour. The dough is soft, chewy, and slightly crispy when baked. With simple ingredients and sourdough fermentation, this Einkorn pizza dough gives you a flavorful, nutritious pizza crust that everyone in your family will enjoy.
Benefits of Einkorn Flour
Einkorn flour is rich in protein, fiber, and nutrients, making your Einkorn pizza dough healthier than standard wheat dough. It is also easier to digest for sensitive stomachs and has a naturally sweet, nutty flavor. Using Einkorn pizza dough allows you to enjoy classic pizza while adding more nutrition to every bite.
Simple Ingredients & Quick Preparation
This Einkorn pizza dough uses just a few simple ingredients: einkorn flour, water, salt, sourdough starter, and olive oil. The dough comes together quickly and requires minimal kneading. Even beginners can make Einkorn pizza dough easily, creating a homemade pizza crust that is soft, chewy, and perfect for topping with your favorite ingredients.
Health Advantages Compared to Regular Flour
Making pizza with Einkorn pizza dough is healthier than using regular wheat flour. Einkorn contains more protein, minerals, and antioxidants. The sourdough fermentation in Einkorn pizza dough may also add beneficial probiotics. This dough offers a nutritious alternative without sacrificing taste, giving you a soft, chewy, and flavorful pizza crust.
Einkorn Facts You Should Know
Understanding Einkorn pizza dough starts with knowing the grain itself. Einkorn is an ancient wheat that has been cultivated for thousands of years. Using Einkorn pizza dough brings a unique flavor and texture to your pizza crust. Its nutritional benefits, digestibility, and rich history make Einkorn pizza dough a healthier and tastier choice compared to modern wheat dough.
History of Einkorn Wheat
Einkorn wheat is one of the oldest cultivated grains, dating back over 10,000 years. Using Einkorn pizza dough connects you to traditional baking methods. Ancient civilizations valued einkorn for its hardiness and nutrition. Today, making pizza with Einkorn pizza dough preserves this heritage while delivering a naturally flavorful crust.
Nutritional Value & Protein Content
Einkorn flour is packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals like zinc and iron. Using Einkorn pizza dough means your pizza is not just delicious but also nutritious. This dough has more nutrients than regular wheat, giving you a chewy, healthy pizza crust that supports digestion and overall health while maintaining the authentic taste of pizza.
How Einkorn Differs From Modern Wheat
Unlike modern wheat, einkorn has a simpler gluten structure, making Einkorn pizza dough easier to digest. It also contains more natural nutrients and antioxidants. The flavor of Einkorn pizza dough is nutty and slightly sweet, giving your pizza a unique taste. Using einkorn creates a healthier and more flavorful pizza crust.
Ingredients for Einkorn Pizza Dough
Making the perfect Einkorn pizza dough starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. Using the right flour, starter, and water ensures your dough is soft, chewy, and slightly crispy when baked. This section breaks down both the essential ingredients and optional add-ons, so your Einkorn pizza dough can be customized for flavor, texture, and nutrition.
Essential Ingredients 1x2x3x
Here are the essential ingredients for a classic Einkorn pizza dough recipe. Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sourdough starter | ¼ cup (80 g) | Fed in the last 12 hours for best rise |
| Einkorn flour | 6 cups (750 g) | Commercially ground recommended |
| Water | 2 cups | Room temperature, adjust if needed |
| Salt | 2 tsp | Enhances flavor and strengthens dough |
| Olive oil | As needed | For greasing the bowl and dough |
Using these essentials ensures your Einkorn pizza dough rises properly and produces a chewy, flavorful crust every time.
Optional Ingredients & Add-ons
While the basic ingredients make great Einkorn pizza dough, you can add optional ingredients to customize your pizza:
- Herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor
- Garlic powder or onion powder for subtle depth
- Seeds or whole grains for added texture and nutrition
Adding these options allows your Einkorn pizza dough to suit your taste while keeping it healthy and delicious.
Tips for Choosing Quality Einkorn Flour
Choosing the right einkorn flour is critical for making perfect Einkorn pizza dough. Use commercially ground flour for a soft, chewy crust. Look for organic, stone-milled options with minimal bran removal. Avoid home-ground flour if you want a classic pizza texture. High-quality flour ensures your Einkorn pizza dough is flavorful, nutritious, and easy to work with.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Einkorn Pizza Dough
Making Einkorn pizza dough is simple when you follow these step-by-step instructions. This method ensures a soft, chewy, and slightly crispy crust every time. By using a sourdough starter and high-quality einkorn flour, your Einkorn pizza dough will have rich flavor and excellent texture, perfect for any pizza night.
Preparing the Dough
- Pour 2 cups of room-temperature water into a large mixing bowl.
- Add 6 cups of commercially ground einkorn flour.
- Add ¼ cup of active sourdough starter to the bowl.
- Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of salt over the flour mixture.
- Mix all ingredients together until a rough dough ball forms.
- Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.
- Mix briefly again to ensure the dough comes together.
- Transfer the dough into a well-oiled bowl and turn to coat all sides with olive oil.
Kneading and Resting Tips
- Do not over-knead the dough; minimal kneading keeps the Einkorn pizza dough chewy.
- Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 4–8 hours, depending on room temperature.
- Check that the dough has roughly doubled in size and has small bubbles on the surface.
- For summer, 4 hours is usually enough; in cooler months, allow up to 8 hours.
- Your Einkorn pizza dough is ready to shape when it is soft, bubbly, and elastic
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using home-ground einkorn flour – commercially ground flour works best for Einkorn pizza dough.
- Over-kneading the dough, which can break its gluten and affect chewiness.
- Letting the dough rise too long, making it hard to handle.
- Skipping olive oil in the bowl, causing dough to stick.
- Flattening the dough aggressively, which deflates your Einkorn pizza dough.
- Using cold water or inactive starter, which prevents proper rising.
Einkorn Pizza Crust Variations
One of the most exciting things about Einkorn pizza dough is its versatility. This dough can be transformed into a thin, crispy crust or a soft, thick crust depending on your preference. You can also flavor it with herbs or spices for a unique twist. Even those with dietary restrictions can adjust the recipe, making Einkorn pizza dough a perfect choice for anyone who wants a healthy, flavorful pizza crust.
Thin Crust vs Thick Crust
When making a thin crust, divide your Einkorn pizza dough into smaller portions and gently roll or press each portion to about ¼ inch thickness. A lightly floured surface prevents sticking and allows the dough to stretch evenly. Baking on a preheated pizza stone at high temperature creates a crispy, crunchy crust. For a thick crust, use larger portions of Einkorn pizza dough and let them rise a little longer. Gently shape without flattening to preserve air pockets. Baking at a moderate temperature for a longer time gives a soft, chewy crust. Both methods highlight the unique texture and flavor of Einkorn pizza dough.
Flavored or Herb-Infused Crust
You can easily enhance your Einkorn pizza dough by adding herbs or spices. Mix dried oregano, rosemary, or thyme into the dry ingredients before combining the dough. You can also brush rolled-out dough with garlic-infused olive oil for extra aroma and taste. This creates a fragrant, flavorful crust that elevates your pizza. Using Einkorn pizza dough in this way turns a simple pizza into a gourmet experience without adding extra effort.
Gluten-Free or Other Dietary Adjustments
Even with dietary restrictions, Einkorn pizza dough can be adapted. For gluten-sensitive diets, substitute part of the flour with a gluten-free blend while keeping at least half of the flour as einkorn to maintain its flavor. Adjust the water slightly because gluten-free flours absorb liquids differently. Gentle handling and longer resting times help the dough rise and maintain its soft, chewy texture. These adjustments make Einkorn pizza dough suitable for everyone while preserving its delicious taste and versatility.
Tips for Perfect Einkorn Pizza Dough
Making the perfect pizza starts with perfect dough. Einkorn pizza dough can be soft, chewy, and flavorful if you follow a few simple tips. Paying attention to hydration, resting time, and gentle handling ensures your dough rises well and creates a crust that everyone will love. These tips help you get the best texture and taste from your Einkorn pizza dough every time.
How to Achieve Soft & Chewy Texture
To get a soft and chewy Einkorn pizza dough, use a slightly wetter dough than usual and avoid over-kneading. The natural gluten in einkorn is more fragile than modern wheat, so minimal handling preserves the dough’s elasticity. Let the dough rest after mixing to absorb water fully, which improves softness. Using these methods, your Einkorn pizza dough will have a perfect balance of chewiness and a slight crisp on the edges after baking.
Best Rising Techniques
The rising process is key for flavorful Einkorn pizza dough. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place until it doubles in size, typically 4–8 hours depending on temperature. Covering the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap prevents drying out. For deeper flavor, you can refrigerate the dough overnight. These rising techniques ensure your Einkorn pizza dough develops natural sourdough tang and airy texture without compromising its chewiness.
Handling Sticky Dough
Einkorn pizza dough can be stickier than regular wheat dough, but gentle handling prevents frustration. Lightly flour your hands and work surface when shaping the dough. Use olive oil on your hands or bowl to reduce sticking while keeping the dough soft. Avoid aggressive kneading, which can tear the dough. With proper care, your Einkorn pizza dough will be easy to shape and maintain its chewy, flavorful texture.
How to Store Einkorn Pizza Dough
Storing your Einkorn pizza dough properly ensures you can enjoy fresh, chewy pizza anytime. This dough can be refrigerated or frozen, making it convenient for busy weeks or meal prep. With a few simple tips, your Einkorn pizza dough will stay soft, flavorful, and ready to bake, maintaining the perfect texture for every pizza.
Refrigeration Tips
Refrigerating Einkorn pizza dough slows fermentation and allows for flavor development. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before shaping, allow the dough to come to room temperature for 30–60 minutes to make it easier to stretch and shape without tearing.
Quick Tip Table – Refrigeration:
| Step | Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lightly oil the dough | Prevents sticking to the bowl |
| 2 | Cover tightly | Keeps dough from drying out |
| 3 | Refrigerate 3 days max | Longer storage may affect texture |
| 4 | Rest before shaping | 30–60 minutes at room temperature |
Freezing for Later Use
Einkorn pizza dough freezes well, allowing you to prepare ahead of time. Divide the dough into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then allow it to come to room temperature before shaping. This preserves the chewy texture and natural flavor of Einkorn pizza dough.
Freezing Table – Portioning & Thawing:
| Step | Tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Divide dough into portions | Makes shaping easier later |
| 2 | Wrap tightly | Prevents freezer burn |
| 3 | Freeze up to 2 months | Flavor remains intact |
| 4 | Thaw overnight | In fridge for best results |
| 5 | Rest at room temp | 30–60 minutes before baking |
Reheating & Reviving Stored Dough
Stored Einkorn pizza dough may need a little revival before baking. After refrigeration or freezing, allow the dough to warm at room temperature for 30–60 minutes. Gently stretch or press the dough instead of kneading to preserve its texture. Lightly brushing with olive oil helps prevent sticking. Following these steps ensures your Einkorn pizza dough remains soft, chewy, and full of flavor, even after storage.
Preparing Dough in Advance
Planning ahead makes pizza night easier and more enjoyable. Einkorn pizza dough can be prepared in advance without losing its chewy, flavorful texture. By using simple techniques like overnight fermentation, pre-portioned dough balls, or make-ahead strategies, your Einkorn pizza dough will be ready whenever you want to bake, saving time while still producing a perfect pizza crust.
Overnight Dough Techniques
One of the best ways to develop flavor in Einkorn pizza dough is through overnight fermentation. After mixing your dough, cover it and place it in the refrigerator for 8–12 hours. The slow rise enhances taste and improves texture, making your Einkorn pizza dough soft and chewy. When ready to use, simply let the dough sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before shaping.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Days
For busy days, you can prepare Einkorn pizza dough several hours or even a day in advance. Keep the dough in a lightly oiled, covered bowl in the refrigerator. This method allows the dough to slowly ferment, which improves flavor while keeping it soft. By planning ahead, your Einkorn pizza dough is ready to roll, shape, and bake whenever needed.
Pre-Portioned Dough Balls
Dividing Einkorn pizza dough into pre-portioned balls makes pizza night faster and easier. After preparing the dough, separate it into the sizes you need, lightly oil each portion, and store in the fridge or freezer. This ensures each piece rises evenly and keeps the dough soft. Using pre-portioned Einkorn pizza dough saves time while maintaining perfect texture and flavor for every pizza.
Nutrition Facts
Einkorn pizza dough is not only delicious but also more nutritious than regular wheat dough. Einkorn flour contains higher protein, more fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc. Using sourdough fermentation adds natural probiotics, making the pizza easier to digest. Even with just a few simple ingredients, this Einkorn pizza dough gives you a healthy, flavorful base for your favorite pizza toppings.
Approximate Nutrition per 1 Serving (1/8 of dough):
| Nutrient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal | Without toppings |
| Protein | 6 g | From einkorn flour and starter |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g | Complex carbs for energy |
| Fiber | 3 g | Supports digestion |
| Fat | 2 g | From olive oil and natural flour content |
| Sodium | 250 mg | From added salt |
| Sugars | 0.5 g | Naturally occurring in flour |
| Probiotics | Moderate | From sourdough fermentation |
This nutrition breakdown shows that Einkorn pizza dough is a wholesome choice for family meals, providing both flavor and health benefits.
Serving Suggestions & Toppings
One of the best parts about Einkorn pizza dough is how versatile it is for toppings. Whether you prefer classic flavors or creative combinations, this dough holds up beautifully while remaining soft and chewy. From simple Margherita pizzas to loaded veggie or meat options, Einkorn pizza dough provides the perfect foundation for any favorite pizza style.
Classic Margherita Pizza
A traditional Margherita pizza highlights the flavor of your Einkorn pizza dough. Spread a simple tomato-basil sauce over the dough, add fresh mozzarella, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil. Baking at a high temperature gives a crispy edge while keeping the center soft. This simple recipe lets the natural taste and texture of Einkorn pizza dough shine through.
Veggie Lovers’ Pizza
For a healthy and colorful option, top your Einkorn pizza dough with roasted vegetables, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance flavor. The chewy, slightly crispy texture of Einkorn pizza dough pairs perfectly with juicy, vibrant veggies, making every bite satisfying and nutritious.
Meat & Specialty Toppings
Einkorn pizza dough also works beautifully with meat and specialty toppings. Layer pepperoni, sausage, or prosciutto with cheese and your favorite sauces. You can even add gourmet touches like caramelized onions or olives. The soft yet firm structure of Einkorn pizza dough supports heavier toppings without losing its chewy, flavorful texture.
FAQs: Einkorn Pizza Dough
What makes Einkorn pizza dough different from regular pizza dough?
Einkorn pizza dough is made from an ancient grain that is easier to digest, higher in protein, and richer in nutrients than modern wheat. It has a naturally nutty flavor and produces a soft, chewy, and slightly crispy crust, making it a healthier and more flavorful alternative.
How long does Einkorn pizza dough need to rise?
Depending on room temperature, Einkorn pizza dough usually takes 4–8 hours to rise. Cooler temperatures may require longer resting, while warmer kitchens may need less time. A slow rise enhances flavor and develops a chewy, airy texture in the crust.
Can I use Einkorn pizza dough for thin or thick crust pizzas?
Yes! Einkorn pizza dough is versatile. For thin crust, roll it out to about ¼ inch; for thick crust, shape it gently and allow extra rising time. Both methods maintain the dough’s chewy texture and rich flavor.
Can I freeze Einkorn pizza dough for later use?
Absolutely. Portion the dough, wrap it tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before shaping. Freezing preserves the texture and flavor of Einkorn pizza dough.
Is Einkorn pizza dough suitable for people with gluten sensitivity?
Einkorn contains gluten, but its gluten structure is simpler and easier to digest than modern wheat. Partial substitutions with gluten-free flour are possible, but at least 50% einkorn flour is recommended to maintain texture and flavor.
Hamza Qayyum is a passionate home chef and recipe developer with over 4 years of experience creating healthy, family-friendly meals. She loves simplifying classic dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients and sharing practical, tested recipes that help home cooks gain confidence in the kitchen.
