This is a satisfying, crunchy-edged thin crust with a golden hue from semolina and durum flours. A light hand with sauce and toppings let the taste of the dough shine through.
Weigh your flour; or measure it by gently spooning it into a cup, then sweeping off any excess. Combine the dry ingredients, oil, and 1 cup of water in a large bowl. Mix and knead until the dough is soft and smooth (about 5 minutes at medium speed in a stand mixer).
Cover and let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until puffy-looking. Toward the end of the rise time, preheat the oven with a baking stone or steel in it to 450°F.
Divide the dough in half and place each on a lightly oiled 12" pizza pan or a lightly greased piece of parchment.
Press the dough with your hands into a thin, flat circle 12" in diameter. If the dough starts to shrink or snap back, cover and let rest for 10 minutes before continuing.
Spread lightly with sauce and the toppings of your choice, taking care not to overload the thin crust. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. Remove from the oven and serve hot.
This recipe relies heavily on durum and semolina for the crust's texture, crunch, and flavor. If you don't have these flours, try our Thin Crust Pizza using Italian-Style Flour or all-purpose flour, and bookmark this semolina/durum recipe for later.
Want to experiment with different cheeses beyond the standard mozzarella? Choose those that melt well: Fontina, cheddar, Jack, provolone, brick, Gouda, and Muenster are all good candidates.
To freeze partially baked pizza crust: Bake the crust on the lower oven rack until it looks and feels set and is just beginning to brown around the edge of the crust, but is still pale on top. This will take about 8 minutes for thin-crust pizza; about 10 to 12 minutes for medium thickness; and 12 to 14 minutes for thick-crust pizza. Remove from the oven, cool to room temperature, wrap well, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake pizza, remove the crust from the freezer and allow it to thaw, loosely wrapped, at room temperature. Top and bake in a preheated 450°F oven until the crust is golden brown and the toppings fully cooked.
