Craving pizza but want to keep it low-carb? Our Carbquik pizza crust recipe is just what you need. This easy-to-make crust uses Carbquik, a low-carb baking mix that helps us enjoy pizza without the guilt. It’s perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle who doesn’t want to sacrifice flavor or texture.
We love how this crust turns out crispy on the edges and tender inside, making it a great base for all your favorite toppings. Plus, it comes together quickly, so you can have a delicious homemade pizza ready in no time. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd Carbquik pizza crust is a game-changer in the kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Carbquik Pizza Crust, we use simple, low-carb ingredients that deliver both flavor and texture. Here is everything we need to prepare this crispy yet tender crust:
- 1 ¾ cups Carbquik Baking Mix — the key low-carb base that keeps our crust keto-friendly
- 1 teaspoon baking powder — for added rise and fluffiness
- ½ teaspoon salt — to enhance flavor
- 1 large egg — binds the dough together
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese — adds moisture and richness
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese — creates a soft, pliable dough
Ingredient Measurements Summary
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Carbquik Baking Mix | 1 ¾ cups | Low-carb flour alternative |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon | Leavening agent for rise |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Flavor enhancement |
| Large Egg | 1 | Dough binder |
| Shredded Mozzarella | ¾ cup | Moisture and texture |
| Cream Cheese | 2 tablespoons | Dough softness and pliability |
These precise measurements are essential for achieving the ideal Carbquik pizza crust that holds toppings well while maintaining a satisfying crispness on the edges and a tender interior.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Carbquik Pizza Crust with the ideal texture and flavor, having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s what we recommend to achieve excellent results every time:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | For combining Carbquik and other ingredients thoroughly |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | To ensure precise ingredient measurements |
| Whisk or Wooden Spoon | For mixing the batter to an even consistency |
| Baking Sheet or Pizza Pan | To shape and bake our crust |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat | Prevents sticking and promotes easy cleanup |
| Oven | For baking the crust to crispy perfection |
| Cooling Rack | Allows the crust to cool without becoming soggy |
| Cheese Grater (optional) | To shred mozzarella fresh if not pre-shredded |
Tips for Using Your Equipment
- We recommend lining the pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to keep the crust from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- Use a whisk to combine the dry ingredients like Carbquik baking mix, baking powder, and salt evenly before adding cheeses and egg.
- A cooling rack is important as it elevates the crust, allowing air circulation underneath, which maintains its crispness.
Prep Work
Before we start assembling our Carbquik Pizza Crust, proper prep work is essential to ensure a smooth baking process and a perfect crust texture. Let’s prepare the dough and the oven for baking.
Preparing the Dough
To make the dough, we begin by combining the dry ingredients in a bowl:
- 1 ¾ cups Carbquik Baking Mix
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
We whisk these together thoroughly to ensure the leavening agent and salt are evenly distributed.
Next, we add the wet ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
We add the egg first, then gradually incorporate the cheeses. Using a wooden spoon or our hands, we mix until the dough forms a cohesive ball. If the dough feels too sticky, a light dusting of Carbquik helps during kneading.
Tip:
“The dough should be firm but pliable, easy to roll out without cracking.”
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Carbquik Baking Mix | 1 ¾ cups | Measured and sifted |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon | Mixed with dry ingredients |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Mixed with dry ingredients |
| Egg | 1 large | At room temperature |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | ¾ cup | Freshly shredded |
| Cream Cheese | 2 tablespoons | Softened to room temperature |
Preheating the Oven
Preheating the oven is a critical step to achieve a crispy, golden Carbquik pizza crust. We set the oven to 425°F (220°C) to allow it to reach the proper baking temperature before the dough goes in.
- We position the oven rack in the middle to promote even heat circulation.
- If using a pizza stone or baking steel, we place it in the oven before preheating.
- We line our baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Directions
Follow these clear steps to create a perfectly crisp and tender Carbquik pizza crust that serves as an excellent base for your favorite low-carb toppings.
Making the Carbquik Pizza Crust Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of Carbquik Baking Mix, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until thoroughly combined.
- Add 1 large egg, ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the dry mixture.
- Mix vigorously with a wooden spoon or your hands until the ingredients form a uniform, slightly sticky dough ball.
- If the dough feels too wet or sticky, sprinkle a little more Carbquik mix, 1 tablespoon at a time, until manageable but still soft.
Rolling and Shaping the Crust
- Lightly dust a clean surface with Carbquik to prevent sticking.
- Place the dough ball onto the surface and roll it out gently, aiming for a diameter of 10–12 inches and a thickness of about ¼ inch.
- For a thicker crust, roll out less thinly, but maintain even thickness for consistent baking.
- Transfer the dough carefully onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a silicone baking mat placed on your pizza pan.
Pre-Baking the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) if not done already.
- Place the prepared crust in the oven on the middle rack.
- Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the surface feels slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from oven and set aside; this step helps prevent sogginess once toppings are added.
Adding Toppings
- Spread your preferred low-carb toppings evenly across the pre-baked crust.
- For best results, avoid overly wet ingredients that will make the crust soggy.
- Typical toppings include sugar-free tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices, vegetables, and fresh herbs.
- Leave a small border around the edges for a crispier crust rim.
Final Baking
- Return the topped pizza to the oven on the middle rack.
- Bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely and starts to brown slightly.
- Keep an eye on the edges to avoid burning; the crust should be golden and crisp.
- Once finished, remove the pizza and let it cool for 5 minutes on a cooling rack to maintain its crisp texture.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-baking crust | 425°F (220°C) | 8–10 minutes | Crust edges golden and firm |
| Final baking | 425°F (220°C) | 10–12 minutes | Cheese melted and lightly browned |
Serving Suggestions
Our Carbquik Pizza Crust offers a versatile base perfect for a variety of toppings and serving styles. Here are some creative ideas and tips to elevate your low-carb pizza experience:
Classic Low-Carb Pizza Toppings
We recommend keeping toppings simple and fresh to complement the rich, tender crust. Consider these combinations:
- Margherita Style: Fresh basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and a drizzle of olive oil
- Meat Lover’s Delight: Pepperoni, cooked Italian sausage, bacon bits, and shredded cheddar cheese
- Veggie Supreme: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, red onion, and feta cheese
Serving Size & Presentation
Cut the pizza into 6 to 8 slices depending on the occasion. For sharing, arrange slices on a large wooden pizza board for a rustic, inviting presentation. For individual servings, pair each slice with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Pairing Suggestions
Our Carbquik Pizza Crust pairs exceptionally well with:
| Beverage Type | Examples | Pairing Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Low-Carb Beverages | Sparkling water, herbal tea | Refreshing without adding carbs |
| Wine | Dry red wine, Chardonnay | Enhances the flavor without overpowering |
| Keto-Friendly Sides | Cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles | Complements the low-carb pizza theme |
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
To keep the crust crisp after baking, cool pizzas completely on a rack before storing in an airtight container. Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes rather than microwaving to maintain the texture and avoid sogginess.
Fun Twist: Carbquik Pizza Crust Calzones
Try folding the crust over your favorite fillings like pepperoni, ricotta, and spinach to make low-carb calzones. Seal edges firmly, bake until golden brown, and serve with a side of low-carb marinara for dipping.
Pro Tip: Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat when baking to ensure easy removal and retain the crust’s crispiness.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To maximize convenience and maintain the perfect texture of our Carbquik Pizza Crust, we recommend following these practical make-ahead and storage strategies.
Preparing the Dough Ahead of Time
We can prepare the pizza crust dough up to 24 hours in advance. After mixing the dough according to the recipe, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated to preserve freshness and prevent drying out. When ready to use, let the dough rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before shaping to ensure easy handling.
Pre-Baking and Freezing the Crust
For ultimate convenience, pre-bake the crust as instructed (8–10 minutes at 425°F/220°C) until it achieves a light golden color. Allow it to cool completely on a cooling rack to maintain crispness. Then, wrap the crust tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Store it in the freezer for up to 1 month.
When we want to enjoy our homemade low-carb pizza, simply remove the crust from the freezer and bake it with toppings. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until toppings are cooked and cheese is melted.
Storing Leftover Pizza
After enjoying our Carbquik Pizza, cool any leftovers completely before storing. Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
To reheat and revive the crust’s crispness, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pizza slices on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Summary of Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Preparation Steps | Storage Time | Recommended Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough (Unbaked) | Wrap tightly, refrigerate | Up to 24 hours | 36°F – 40°F (2°C – 4°C) |
| Pre-Baked Crust | Cool, wrap tightly, freeze | Up to 1 month | 0°F (-18°C) |
| Leftover Pizza Slices | Cool completely, airtight storage | Up to 4 days | 36°F – 40°F (2°C – 4°C) |
Pro Tip: To maintain the crispy edges and tender interior after storage, always cool pizza completely on a cooling rack before wrapping or refrigerating.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we can enjoy delicious homemade low-carb pizza anytime without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Conclusion
Carbquik pizza crust offers a fantastic way to enjoy a low-carb meal without compromising on taste or texture. Its quick preparation and versatile nature make it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. By mastering this recipe, we can easily customize our pizzas to suit any craving while staying on track with our dietary goals.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this crust brings convenience and satisfaction to low-carb cooking. Whether we’re sharing with friends or meal prepping for the week, Carbquik pizza crust is a reliable choice that delivers consistent results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Carbquik and why is it used for low-carb pizza crust?
Carbquik is a low-carb baking mix designed for keto and low-carb diets. It helps create a crispy yet tender pizza crust without the high carbs found in traditional flour, making it ideal for low-carb cooking.
What are the main ingredients for the Carbquik pizza crust?
The key ingredients include 1 ¾ cups Carbquik Baking Mix, 1 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp salt, 1 large egg, ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 2 tbsp cream cheese.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for the crust?
Preheat the oven to 425°F, roll the dough evenly, pre-bake for 8–10 minutes until golden, then add toppings and bake again for 10–12 minutes. Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat helps maintain crispiness.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it refrigerated. You can also pre-bake and freeze the crust for up to a month for easy future use.
How should I store leftover pizza?
Cool leftovers completely before placing in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven to keep the crust crispy.
What equipment do I need to make Carbquik pizza crust?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or spoon, a baking sheet or pizza pan, parchment paper or silicone mat, an oven, and a cooling rack.
What are some recommended low-carb toppings?
Classic options include Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, basil), meat lover’s toppings (pepperoni, sausage), and a veggie supreme with peppers and olives.
Can I make calzones using this crust?
Yes, the same Carbquik crust recipe can be used to make low-carb calzones. Fill with your favorite low-carb ingredients and serve with keto-friendly marinara sauce.
How many slices does the pizza typically serve?
The pizza can be cut into 6 to 8 slices, perfect for sharing or meal prepping.
What tips help keep the crust crispy after baking?
Use a cooling rack to cool the pizza, avoid covering it while warm, and reheat leftovers in the oven rather than the microwave for the best texture.