When I first tasted Little Caesars pretzel crust pizza, it felt like culinary magic. The warm, soft crust combined with creamy cheese and savory toppings was something I couldn’t ignore.
Fast forward to today, and I’m keen to share the excitement of recreating this pizza right in your kitchen. Grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s embark on this flavorful journey together!
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What Pairs Well with Pretzel Crust Pizza?
Imagine a sunny afternoon with friends gathered around a table, sharing stories and laughter. Pairing Little Caesars pretzel crust pizza with some drinks and sides can elevate this experience.
Yummy dips like spicy mustard or a smooth cheese sauce complement the salty notes of the pretzel crust perfectly. Fresh veggies like carrot sticks or cucumber slices create a fantastic contrast and keep the meal balanced. As for drinks, a crisp apple cider or a refreshing craft beer can add to the overall enjoyment, giving everyone a reason to celebrate.
Why This Recipe Is a Game-Changer
You might wonder why I’m so passionate about sharing this recipe. Well, not only is this pizza delicious, but it also brings a sense of accomplishment when you create it from scratch. Plus, it’s adaptable! Throw in any topping your heart desires or even switch up the cheese blend. The pretzel crust gives it a unique twist that leaves everyone asking for more.
My Experience with the Ingredients
Let me walk you through the ingredients. The foundation of the dish begins with pizza dough. I prefer refrigerated pizza dough because it simplifies the process and saves time. The dough itself is transformed into a delightful pretzel crust with a baking soda and water mixture, giving it that delectable soft pretzel taste.
The cheese? Oh, it’s a blend! The heavenly combination of sharp Cheddar and Pepper Jack creates a creamy, cheesy layer that melts beautifully. As for toppings, pepperoni is a classic for a reason — it adds that extra flavor punch. Each ingredient plays an essential role, and once combined, it creates magic in every bite.
Ingredient List
Pizza Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 refrigerated pizza doughs (not thin crust)
- 24 slices of pepperoni
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- Coarse sea salt, to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 8 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 ounces Pepper Jack cheese, grated
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
How to Make Little Caesars Pretzel Crust Pizza
Let’s fire up that oven and get cooking! Follow these simple steps and imagine the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough
Start by unrolling the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean, floured surface. Cut it into equal sections if you’re making two pizzas. I must say, the moment I unwrap that dough, the smell of fresh bread gets me excited.
Step 2: Create the Pretzel-Style Crust
In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Carefully mix in the baking soda. I recommend wearing an apron because things might get a little bubbly! This mixture transforms ordinary dough into an iconic pretzel crust. Gently dip each dough round into the solution for about 30 seconds. Remove it with a slotted spoon, letting the excess drip off.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
While your dough gets that pretzel treatment, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. I can’t express how much joy a clean kitchen gives me during the cooking process.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Sauce
Now, let’s whip up that creamy cheese sauce! In a medium saucepan, mix the shredded cheddar and Pepper Jack with cornstarch. Slowly pour in the evaporated milk while stirring constantly over medium heat. Don’t rush this part; it’s worth it. As the mixture heats, you’ll see it turn creamy and thick. Add hot sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to taste. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
Spread a generous amount of cheese sauce over the prepared crusts. Layer the mozzarella cheese evenly, then add pepperoni slices as desired. Don’t hold back—more is often better when it comes to pepperoni!
Step 6: Brush the Crust
Whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the edges of the crust. This step will create a beautiful golden-brown finish. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt for that authentic pretzel taste.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the assembled pizzas into the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melting. Trust me, the moment you start smelling that delicious aroma, you won’t be able to resist it!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, let your pizzas cool for a few minutes before slicing. Trust me, you’ll want to let that ooey-gooey cheese set just a bit. Serve your masterpiece with dipping sauces, and get ready to dive in!
Recipe Notes
- Pizza Dough: Choose a quality refrigerated pizza dough for a convenient solution. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making pizza dough from scratch!
- Cheese Sauce: Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess.
- Pepperoni: Customize your toppings. You can use turkey pepperoni for a healthier twist or add mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Baking Soda Bath: This step is crucial. It gives the crust its distinct soft pretzel flavor and chewy texture.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to jazz up the recipe! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Veggie Delight: Swap pepperoni for a mix of veggies. Try bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms for a fresh taste.
- BBQ Chicken: Replace pepperoni with shredded BBQ chicken and drizzle some barbecue sauce over the cheese for a deliciously smoky twist.
- Margarita Style: Add fresh basil and sliced tomatoes for a classic margarita pizza vibe, replacing strong flavors with lighter notes.
- Spicy Jalapeño: For those who love heat, diced jalapeños can make every bite exciting. Add them to the top before baking!
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Skimp on the pizza toppings and brush the edges with garlic butter. You’ll have a delicious garlic bread alternative!
- Breakfast Pizza: Use scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and your favorite breakfast toppings for a unique morning treat.
Little Caesars Pretzel Crust Pizza Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
Pizza Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 refrigerated pizza doughs not thin crust
- 24 slices of pepperoni
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- Coarse sea salt to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 8 ounces extra sharp Cheddar cheese grated
- 4 ounces Pepper Jack cheese grated
- 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce such as Frank’s RedHot
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for a smoky kick
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
- Let’s fire up that oven and get cooking! Follow these simple steps and imagine the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough
- Start by unrolling the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean, floured surface. Cut it into equal sections if you’re making two pizzas. I must say, the moment I unwrap that dough, the smell of fresh bread gets me excited.
Step 2: Create the Pretzel-Style Crust
- In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Carefully mix in the baking soda. I recommend wearing an apron because things might get a little bubbly! This mixture transforms ordinary dough into an iconic pretzel crust. Gently dip each dough round into the solution for about 30 seconds. Remove it with a slotted spoon, letting the excess drip off.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
- While your dough gets that pretzel treatment, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup. I can’t express how much joy a clean kitchen gives me during the cooking process.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Sauce
- Now, let’s whip up that creamy cheese sauce! In a medium saucepan, mix the shredded cheddar and Pepper Jack with cornstarch. Slowly pour in the evaporated milk while stirring constantly over medium heat. Don’t rush this part; it’s worth it. As the mixture heats, you’ll see it turn creamy and thick. Add hot sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to taste. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza
- Spread a generous amount of cheese sauce over the prepared crusts. Layer the mozzarella cheese evenly, then add pepperoni slices as desired. Don’t hold back—more is often better when it comes to pepperoni!
Step 6: Brush the Crust
- Whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the edges of the crust. This step will create a beautiful golden-brown finish. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt for that authentic pretzel taste.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Pop the assembled pizzas into the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melting. Trust me, the moment you start smelling that delicious aroma, you won’t be able to resist it!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once baked, let your pizzas cool for a few minutes before slicing. Trust me, you’ll want to let that ooey-gooey cheese set just a bit. Serve your masterpiece with dipping sauces, and get ready to dive in!
Notes
- Pizza Dough: Choose a quality refrigerated pizza dough for a convenient solution. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making pizza dough from scratch!
- Cheese Sauce: Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess.
- Pepperoni: Customize your toppings. You can use turkey pepperoni for a healthier twist or add mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Baking Soda Bath: This step is crucial. It gives the crust its distinct soft pretzel flavor and chewy texture.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pretzel crust in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and assemble the pizza before baking.
Q2: Is there a gluten-free version?
Certainly! Use gluten-free pizza dough to enjoy this recipe without gluten concerns. Just ensure all other ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Q4: Can I freeze the pizza?
Yes! You can freeze unbaked pizzas, simply wrap them tightly in foil before freezing. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as necessary.
Q5: What dipping sauces go well with this pizza?
Mustard-based dipping sauces, marinara, and even ranch dressing can complement the flavors perfectly. Be creative!
Q6: How do I make the pizza crispy?
To achieve a crispier crust, preheat your baking sheet in the oven before adding the pizza. This helps create a crunchy base.
Conclusion
Little Caesars pretzel crust pizza is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. The lovely balance of cheesy goodness and the soft pretzel crust invites everyone to indulge. Every slice is packed with flavors, making it perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering or a weekend binge-watch night.
This homemade version gives you control over ingredients, flavors, and toppings, allowing you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make this delicious pizza happen! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you. Enjoy every moment. Happy cooking!
