Mini Pizzas with Homemade Dough and Sauce

### Instructions: How to Make Mini Pizzas from Scratch

#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the **warm water**, **sugar**, and **yeast**. Stir lightly and let it sit for about **5 minutes**, or until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to use.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the **flour** and **salt**. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the flour mixture along with **1 tablespoon of olive oil**. Stir everything together until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about **5 minutes**, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for **1 hour**, or until it doubles in size.

#### Step 2: Make the Sauce
While the dough is rising, prepare the pizza sauce. In a saucepan, heat **1 tablespoon of olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **crushed tomatoes**, **garlic powder**, **oregano**, **basil**, and **sugar** (if using). Stir everything together and simmer for about **10-15 minutes**, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Set aside to cool.

#### Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to **475°F (245°C)**. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats up for that extra crispy crust. If not, a regular baking sheet will work just fine.

#### Step 4: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle or divide it into smaller portions, depending on how mini you want your pizzas. You should aim for about **6-8 small pizza bases**. Roll each piece out to about **1/4 inch thick**.

#### Step 5: Assemble the Mini Pizzas
Place the pizza dough rounds onto a lightly greased baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread a thin layer of the **homemade pizza sauce** over each base, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle a generous amount of **shredded mozzarella cheese** over the sauce, then add any additional toppings of your choice—whether that’s classic **pepperoni**, sautéed **mushrooms**, sliced **bell peppers**, or even a little bit of **bacon**.

#### Step 6: Bake the Mini Pizzas
Bake the mini pizzas in the preheated oven for about **10-12 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can bake them for a few extra minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn.

#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pizzas are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before slicing. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, like **garlic butter** or **ranch dressing**.

### Tips for Perfect Mini Pizzas

– **Get Creative with Toppings**: One of the best parts of making mini pizzas is the ability to customize each one. Set up a pizza bar with a variety of toppings and let everyone make their own creation. From veggies to meats, the possibilities are endless.
– **Use Fresh Mozzarella**: For an even richer flavor, use fresh **mozzarella cheese** instead of the pre-shredded kind. It melts beautifully and adds a creamier texture.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the dough and sauce ahead of time. Store the dough in the fridge for up to **24 hours** or freeze it for later use. You can also store the sauce in an airtight container for up to a week.
– **Gluten-Free Version**: For a gluten-free alternative, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free pizza dough mix. You can find pre-made gluten-free dough in stores, or use a recipe that suits your dietary needs.
– **Crispier Crust**: If you love a crispy crust, preheat your baking sheet or pizza stone in the oven before placing the dough on it. This will help the bottom cook faster and become golden brown.

### Why These Mini Pizzas Are Perfect for Any Occasion

– **Fun for All Ages**: Mini pizzas are great for kids and adults alike. Everyone loves creating their own personalized pizza, and they’re a fun activity for family nights or gatherings with friends.
– **Ideal for Parties**: These mini pizzas are perfect for serving at parties or get-togethers. They’re easy to handle, and you can make a variety of different flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
– **Quick and Easy**: Despite making everything from scratch, these mini pizzas are quick to prepare and bake. The dough rises in just an hour, and the pizzas only take about 10-12 minutes in the oven.
– **Portable and Versatile**: These mini pizzas are portable, making them great for picnics, outdoor gatherings, or even packed lunches.

### Conclusion: A Fun, Flavorful Twist on Pizza Night

Making **Mini Pizzas with Homemade Dough and Sauce** is an easy and enjoyable way to elevate your pizza night. Whether you’re preparing them for your family or hosting a party, these bite-sized pizzas offer endless customization options and a deliciously fresh taste. With homemade dough and sauce, you’ll never look at store-bought pizza the same way again. So, gather your ingredients, get creative with toppings, and enjoy these delightful mini pizzas—your taste buds will thank you!