When it comes to pizza, the crust is often the foundation of a great pie. It’s what holds everything together, providing a base for the sauce, cheese, and toppings to shine. For pizza lovers, the type of crust can make all the difference in the world. Domino’s, one of the most popular pizza chains in the world, offers two distinct crust options: Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan. But what sets these two crusts apart, and which one is right for you?
To understand the differences between Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts, it’s essential to delve into the world of pizza dough. Pizza dough is made from a combination of flour, water, yeast, salt, and sugar. The type of flour used, the amount of water, and the proofing time all contribute to the final texture and flavor of the crust. At Domino’s, the dough for both Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts is made fresh in-store every day, using a proprietary blend of ingredients.
The Hand Tossed crust, as the name suggests, is tossed by hand to give it a light, airy texture. The dough is thrown and spun in the air, allowing it to stretch and develop a crispy crust. This process, known as “docking,” creates a crust with a delicate balance of crunch and chew. The Hand Tossed crust is then topped with sauce, cheese, and toppings before being baked in a brick oven. The result is a crust that’s crispy on the outside, with a soft and slightly chewy interior.
In contrast, the Handmade Pan crust is made with a thicker, more buttery dough. The dough is pressed into a pan and then topped with a blend of cheeses, sauce, and toppings. The pan is then baked in a slow-cooking oven, allowing the crust to develop a golden-brown color and a crispy texture. The Handmade Pan crust is cooked for a longer period than the Hand Tossed crust, resulting in a crust that’s crunchier and more dense.
One of the primary differences between Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts is the type of flour used. The Hand Tossed crust is made with a higher-protein flour, which gives it a more elastic texture and a better ability to hold its shape. The Handmade Pan crust, on the other hand, uses a lower-protein flour, which results in a more tender and delicate crust. The type of flour used also affects the flavor of the crust, with the Hand Tossed crust having a more pronounced wheat flavor and the Handmade Pan crust having a sweeter, more buttery taste.
Another significant difference between the two crusts is the cooking method. The Hand Tossed crust is baked in a brick oven, which allows for a quick cooking time and a crispy crust. The Handmade Pan crust, on the other hand, is cooked in a slow-cooking oven, which results in a longer cooking time and a crust that’s more golden brown. The cooking method also affects the texture of the crust, with the Hand Tossed crust being more crunchy and the Handmade Pan crust being more dense.
In terms of toppings, both Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts can be customized with a wide range of options. From classic pepperoni and mushrooms to more gourmet toppings like artichokes and feta cheese, the possibilities are endless. However, the type of crust can affect the way the toppings are cooked. The Hand Tossed crust, with its crispy exterior, can hold a generous amount of toppings without becoming soggy. The Handmade Pan crust, on the other hand, is more prone to sogginess, especially if too many toppings are added.
So, which crust is right for you? The answer ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you like a crispy, airy crust with a delicate balance of crunch and chew, the Hand Tossed crust may be the way to go. If you prefer a thicker, more buttery crust with a crispy exterior and a soft interior, the Handmade Pan crust is the better choice. Ultimately, both crusts offer a unique pizza experience that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning pizza lovers.
In conclusion, the differences between Domino’s Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts are more than just a matter of semantics. From the type of flour used to the cooking method, each crust has its own unique characteristics and advantages. Whether you’re a fan of crispy and airy or thick and buttery, there’s a Domino’s crust out there for you. So next time you order a pizza, consider the crust – it may just make all the difference in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts?
A: The primary difference between Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts is the type of flour used, the cooking method, and the texture of the crust. Hand Tossed crusts are made with a higher-protein flour and are baked in a brick oven, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Handmade Pan crusts, on the other hand, are made with a lower-protein flour and are cooked in a slow-cooking oven, resulting in a thicker, more buttery crust.
Q: Which crust is better for toppings?
A: The Hand Tossed crust is generally better for toppings, as its crispy exterior can hold a generous amount of toppings without becoming soggy. The Handmade Pan crust, on the other hand, is more prone to sogginess, especially if too many toppings are added.
Q: Can I customize my crust with different toppings?
A: Yes, both Hand Tossed and Handmade Pan crusts can be customized with a wide range of toppings. From classic pepperoni and mushrooms to more gourmet toppings like artichokes and feta cheese, the possibilities are endless.
Q: How are Domino’s crusts made?
A: Domino’s crusts are made fresh in-store every day, using a proprietary blend of ingredients. The dough is thrown and spun in the air to give it a light, airy texture, and then topped with sauce, cheese, and toppings before being baked in a brick oven or slow-cooking oven.
Q: Are Domino’s crusts vegan or gluten-free?
A: Unfortunately, Domino’s crusts are not vegan or gluten-free. However, Domino’s does offer a gluten-free crust option, made with a special blend of ingredients that is free from gluten. Vegan options are also available, including vegan cheese and sauces.