The Ultimate Guide to Thawing and Working with Frozen Pizza Dough

Thawing frozen pizza dough is a delicate process that requires patience and attention to detail. The best way to thaw frozen pizza dough is in the refrigerator or at room temperature, rather than in the microwave. To thaw the dough in the refrigerator, simply place it in a covered container or plastic bag and let it thaw overnight. To thaw the dough at room temperature, place it in a lightly floured bowl or on a piece of parchment paper and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let the dough thaw for several hours, or until it reaches room temperature.

Thawing frozen pizza dough in the microwave is not recommended, as it can cause the dough to become tough and soggy. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can thaw the dough in the microwave on the defrost setting. Be careful not to overheat the dough, as this can cause it to cook unevenly or become tough. It’s also important to note that thawing frozen pizza dough in the microwave can affect the texture and flavor of the finished crust.

One of the most common mistakes people make when thawing frozen pizza dough is not letting it thaw for long enough. This can cause the dough to be tough and dense, rather than light and airy. To avoid this, make sure to let the dough thaw for several hours, or until it reaches room temperature. You can also check the dough periodically to see if it’s thawed, by gently pressing on it with your fingers. If the dough feels soft and pliable, it’s ready to use. If it still feels frozen or stiff, let it thaw for a few more hours.

Another key consideration when thawing frozen pizza dough is preventing it from sticking to the surface it’s on. To do this, use a lightly floured surface or a piece of parchment paper. You can also sprinkle a small amount of cornmeal or semolina flour on the surface to help the dough release more easily. This will help to prevent the dough from sticking and make it easier to work with.

In addition to thawing frozen pizza dough, it’s also important to consider how to store it properly. Frozen pizza dough can be stored for several months in the freezer, but it’s essential to wrap and label it properly. To store frozen pizza dough, place it in a plastic bag or airtight container and label it with the date and contents. Make sure to press out as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing it, to prevent freezer burn. You can also divide the dough into smaller portions and store them separately, to make it easier to thaw and use only what you need.

Frozen pizza dough can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic pizzas to stuffed breads and focaccia. To use frozen pizza dough, simply thaw it according to the package instructions and then shape it into the desired form. You can top the dough with your favorite ingredients, such as sauce, cheese, and toppings, and then bake it in the oven until crispy and golden brown.

One of the benefits of using frozen pizza dough is that it can be thawed and ready to use in just a few hours. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. You can also use frozen pizza dough to make a variety of other dishes, such as calzones, breadsticks, and garlic knots. Simply thaw the dough, shape it into the desired form, and then bake it in the oven until crispy and golden brown.

In addition to using frozen pizza dough to make pizzas, you can also use it to make a variety of other dishes. For example, you can use it to make stuffed breads, such as stromboli or panzerotti. Simply thaw the dough, fill it with your favorite ingredients, and then bake it in the oven until crispy and golden brown. You can also use frozen pizza dough to make focaccia, which is a type of Italian flatbread that is perfect for dipping in olive oil or sauces.

To make focaccia using frozen pizza dough, simply thaw the dough according to the package instructions and then shape it into a rectangle or circle. Dimple the dough with your fingers, and then top it with your favorite ingredients, such as olive oil, herbs, and cheese. Bake the focaccia in the oven until crispy and golden brown, and then serve it warm.

Another great way to use frozen pizza dough is to make calzones. Calzones are essentially folded pizzas that are filled with ingredients such as sauce, cheese, and meats. To make calzones using frozen pizza dough, simply thaw the dough according to the package instructions and then shape it into a circle or rectangle. Place your favorite fillings in the center of the dough, and then fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Bake the calzones in the oven until crispy and golden brown, and then serve them warm.

In addition to making pizzas, stuffed breads, and calzones, you can also use frozen pizza dough to make a variety of other dishes. For example, you can use it to make breadsticks, which are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish. Simply thaw the dough, shape it into long, thin strips, and then bake it in the oven until crispy and golden brown. You can also use frozen pizza dough to make garlic knots, which are a type of knot-shaped bread that is perfect for serving as a side dish or snack.

To make garlic knots using frozen pizza dough, simply thaw the dough according to the package instructions and then shape it into long, thin strips. Tie the strips into knots, and then bake them in the oven until crispy and golden brown. Brush the knots with garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan cheese, and then serve them warm.

In conclusion, frozen pizza dough is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic pizzas to stuffed breads and focaccia. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can thaw and work with frozen pizza dough like a pro, and create a wide range of delicious dishes with ease.

Letting thawed pizza dough rise before baking can help to create a lighter, airier crust. This is because the yeast in the dough has time to ferment, producing carbon dioxide gas bubbles that get trapped in the dough. As the dough rises, these bubbles expand, causing the dough to become lighter and more aerated.

To let thawed pizza dough rise, simply place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it sit in a warm, draft-free place for several hours. You can also let the dough rise in the refrigerator overnight, which can help to slow down the rising process and produce a more complex flavor.

One of the benefits of letting thawed pizza dough rise is that it can help to create a more complex flavor profile. As the yeast ferments, it produces a range of compounds that contribute to the flavor and aroma of the finished crust. These compounds can include esters, aldehydes, and other volatile molecules that are responsible for the characteristic flavor and aroma of bread.

In addition to creating a more complex flavor profile, letting thawed pizza dough rise can also help to improve the texture of the finished crust. As the dough rises, the gluten network becomes more developed, which can help to create a crust that is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.

To get the most out of letting thawed pizza dough rise, it’s essential to create the right environment. This means providing the dough with a warm, draft-free place to rise, and making sure that it is not disturbed or jostled during the rising process. You can also use a proofing box or a warm oven to create a consistent temperature and humidity level, which can help to promote even rising and prevent the dough from becoming over-proofed.

In addition to letting thawed pizza dough rise, you can also use a variety of other techniques to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. For example, you can use a preferment, such as a biga or a sourdough starter, to add more flavor and complexity to the dough. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and cheeses, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

To use a preferment, simply mix the preferment with the thawed pizza dough and let it rise for several hours. The preferment will add more flavor and complexity to the dough, and can help to create a more complex flavor profile. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and cheeses, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

For example, you can sprinkle some dried oregano or basil on top of the crust before baking, which can add a savory, slightly bitter flavor. You can also sprinkle some grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top of the crust, which can add a rich, creamy flavor.

In addition to using a preferment and adding ingredients to the dough, you can also use a variety of other techniques to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. For example, you can use a stone or a baking steel to bake the crust, which can help to create a crispy, well-browned crust. You can also use a variety of toppings, such as sauces, cheeses, and meats, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

To get the most out of using a stone or a baking steel, it’s essential to preheat the stone or steel before baking the crust. This can help to create a hot, even surface that can help to cook the crust quickly and evenly. You can also use a variety of toppings, such as sauces, cheeses, and meats, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

For example, you can top the crust with a simple tomato sauce and some grated mozzarella cheese, which can create a classic, flavorful pizza. You can also top the crust with some caramelized onions and some crumbled blue cheese, which can create a sweet, savory pizza.

In addition to using a stone or a baking steel and adding toppings to the crust, you can also use a variety of other techniques to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. For example, you can use a variety of cooking methods, such as grilling or pan-frying, to create a crispy, well-browned crust. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and cheeses, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

To get the most out of using a variety of cooking methods and ingredients, it’s essential to experiment and find what works best for you. You can try grilling the crust over high heat, which can help to create a crispy, well-browned crust. You can also try pan-frying the crust in a skillet, which can help to create a crispy, golden-brown crust.

In addition to experimenting with different cooking methods and ingredients, you can also use a variety of other techniques to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. For example, you can use a variety of sauces, such as pesto or arrabbiata, to add more flavor and interest to the crust. You can also use a variety of cheeses, such as parmesan or gorgonzola, to add more flavor and interest to the crust.

To get the most out of using a variety of sauces and cheeses, it’s essential to experiment and find what works best for you. You can try using a classic tomato sauce and some grated mozzarella cheese, which can create a simple, flavorful pizza. You can also try using a more complex sauce, such as pesto or arrabbiata, and some crumbled blue cheese, which can create a more complex, interesting pizza.

In conclusion, letting thawed pizza dough rise can help to create a lighter, airier crust, and can also help to create a more complex flavor profile. By using a variety of techniques, such as preferments, ingredients, and cooking methods, you can create a wide range of delicious pizzas that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Refreezing thawed pizza dough is possible, but it’s not always the best option. When you thaw frozen pizza dough, the starches and yeast in the dough begin to break down, which can affect the texture and flavor of the finished crust. If you refreeze the dough, these starches and yeast can continue to break down, which can result in a crust that is tough, dense, or even inedible.

However, if you need to refreeze thawed pizza dough, it’s essential to do it correctly. First, make sure that the dough is completely thawed and at room temperature. Then, shape the dough into a ball or a log, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped dough in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and label it with the date and contents.

When you’re ready to use the refrozen dough, simply thaw it according to the package instructions and then shape it into the desired form. Keep in mind that refrozen dough may not rise as well as freshly thawed dough, and may have a slightly different texture and flavor.

One of the benefits of refreezing thawed pizza dough is that it can help to extend the shelf life of the dough. If you don’t plan to use the dough within a few days, refreezing it can help to preserve it for later use. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that refrozen dough may not be as fresh or flavorful as newly thawed dough, and may require some additional time and effort to get the best results.

In addition to refreezing thawed pizza dough, you can also use a variety of other techniques to extend the shelf life of the dough. For example, you can store the dough in the refrigerator, which can help to slow down the rising process and preserve the dough for several days. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as preservatives or additives, to help extend the shelf life of the dough.

To get the most out of storing the dough in the refrigerator, it’s essential to keep it in a sealed container or plastic bag, and to keep it away from strong-smelling foods. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In addition to storing the dough in the refrigerator, you can also use a variety of other techniques to extend the shelf life of the dough. For example, you can freeze the dough, which can help to preserve it for several months. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as preservatives or additives, to help extend the shelf life of the dough.

To get the most out of freezing the dough, it’s essential to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and to label it with the date and contents. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In conclusion, refreezing thawed pizza dough is possible, but it’s not always the best option. By using a variety of techniques, such as storing the dough in the refrigerator or freezer, and using preservatives or additives, you can extend the shelf life of the dough and get the best results.

Thawing frozen pizza dough in the oven is a convenient and efficient way to thaw the dough, especially if you’re short on time. To thaw frozen pizza dough in the oven, simply preheat the oven to 100°F – 200°F (38°C – 90°C), and place the frozen dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it thaw for 30 minutes to an hour.

One of the benefits of thawing frozen pizza dough in the oven is that it can help to thaw the dough quickly and evenly. This can be especially helpful if you’re in a hurry, or if you need to thaw a large quantity of dough. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that thawing frozen pizza dough in the oven can also cause the dough to become over-proofed, which can result in a crust that is dense or tough.

To avoid over-proofing the dough, it’s essential to check on it periodically as it thaws. If the dough starts to rise or become puffy, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. You can then shape the dough into the desired form and let it rise again before baking.

In addition to thawing frozen pizza dough in the oven, you can also use a variety of other methods to thaw the dough. For example, you can thaw the dough in the refrigerator or at room temperature, which can help to thaw the dough more slowly and evenly. You can also use a microwave to thaw the dough, which can help to thaw the dough quickly, but may require some additional care to avoid over-cooking the dough.

To get the most out of thawing frozen pizza dough in the oven, it’s essential to use a low temperature and to check on the dough periodically as it thaws. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In conclusion, thawing frozen pizza dough in the oven is a convenient and efficient way to thaw the dough, especially if you’re short on time. By using a low temperature and checking on the dough periodically as it thaws, you can help to prevent over-proofing and get the best results.

Frozen pizza dough can be stored in the freezer for several months, but it’s essential to follow some guidelines to ensure that the dough remains fresh and flavorful. The key to storing frozen pizza dough is to keep it at a consistent temperature below 0°F (-18°C), and to prevent it from coming into contact with air or moisture.

To store frozen pizza dough, place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and label it with the date and contents. Make sure to press out as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing it, to prevent freezer burn. You can also divide the dough into smaller portions and store them separately, to make it easier to thaw and use only what you need.

One of the benefits of storing frozen pizza dough is that it can help to preserve the dough for several months. This can be especially helpful if you want to make a large batch of dough and store it for later use. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that frozen pizza dough may not remain fresh and flavorful indefinitely, and may eventually become stale or develop off-flavors.

To get the most out of storing frozen pizza dough, it’s essential to use a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and to label the dough with the date and contents. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In addition to storing frozen pizza dough, you can also use a variety of other techniques to extend the shelf life of the dough. For example, you can store the dough in the refrigerator, which can help to slow down the rising process and preserve the dough for several days. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as preservatives or additives, to help extend the shelf life of the dough.

To get the most out of storing the dough in the refrigerator, it’s essential to keep it in a sealed container or plastic bag, and to keep it away from strong-smelling foods. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In conclusion, frozen pizza dough can be stored in the freezer for several months, but it’s essential to follow some guidelines to ensure that the dough remains fresh and flavorful. By using a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and labeling the dough with the date and contents, you can help to preserve the dough and get the best results.

The best way to store frozen pizza dough is to keep it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and to label it with the date and contents. This can help to prevent freezer burn and keep the dough fresh and flavorful for several months.

To store frozen pizza dough, place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and press out as much air as possible from the bag or container before sealing it. You can also divide the dough into smaller portions and store them separately, to make it easier to thaw and use only what you need.

One of the benefits of storing frozen pizza dough is that it can help to preserve the dough for several months. This can be especially helpful if you want to make a large batch of dough and store it for later use. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that frozen pizza dough may not remain fresh and flavorful indefinitely, and may eventually become stale or develop off-flavors.

To get the most out of storing frozen pizza dough, it’s essential to use a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and to label the dough with the date and contents. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In addition to storing frozen pizza dough, you can also use a variety of other techniques to extend the shelf life of the dough. For example, you can store the dough in the refrigerator, which can help to slow down the rising process and preserve the dough for several days. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as preservatives or additives, to help extend the shelf life of the dough.

To get the most out of storing the dough in the refrigerator, it’s essential to keep it in a sealed container or plastic bag, and to keep it away from strong-smelling foods. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In conclusion, the best way to store frozen pizza dough is to keep it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and to label it with the date and contents. By using a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and labeling the dough with the date and contents, you can help to preserve the dough and get the best results.

Thawing frozen pizza dough before topping and baking is essential to get the best results. When you thaw the dough, it becomes softer and more pliable, which makes it easier to shape and top. Thawing the dough also helps to activate the yeast, which can help to create a lighter, airier crust.

To thaw frozen pizza dough, simply place it in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and let it thaw for several hours or overnight. You can also thaw the dough in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the dough to become tough or dense.

One of the benefits of thawing frozen pizza dough is that it can help to create a more complex flavor profile. As the dough thaws, the yeast and other ingredients begin to break down, which can create a more complex, interesting flavor. Thawing the dough can also help to improve the texture of the finished crust, which can be crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.

To get the most out of thawing frozen pizza dough, it’s essential to thaw it slowly and gently, either in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In addition to thawing frozen pizza dough, you can also use a variety of other techniques to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. For example, you can use a preferment, such as a biga or a sourdough starter, to add more flavor and complexity to the dough. You can also use a variety of toppings, such as sauces, cheeses, and meats, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

To get the most out of using a preferment, it’s essential to mix it with the thawed dough and let it rise for several hours. This can help to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and cheeses, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

In conclusion, thawing frozen pizza dough before topping and baking is essential to get the best results. By thawing the dough slowly and gently, and using a variety of ingredients and techniques, you can create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust.

Using frozen pizza dough straight from the freezer is possible, but it’s not always the best option. When you use frozen dough, it can be difficult to shape and top, and it may not rise as well as thawed dough. However, if you’re in a hurry or need to make a quick pizza, using frozen dough can be a convenient option.

To use frozen pizza dough straight from the freezer, simply place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone, and top it with your favorite ingredients. You can then bake the pizza in a preheated oven, following the package instructions for temperature and cooking time.

One of the benefits of using frozen pizza dough straight from the freezer is that it can be a quick and convenient option. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that frozen dough may not be as flavorful or textured as thawed dough, and may require some additional time and effort to get the best results.

To get the most out of using frozen pizza dough straight from the freezer, it’s essential to follow the package instructions for temperature and cooking time. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In addition to using frozen pizza dough straight from the freezer, you can also use a variety of other techniques to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. For example, you can use a preferment, such as a biga or a sourdough starter, to add more flavor and complexity to the dough. You can also use a variety of toppings, such as sauces, cheeses, and meats, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

To get the most out of using a preferment, it’s essential to mix it with the frozen dough and let it rise for several hours. This can help to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and cheeses, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

In conclusion, using frozen pizza dough straight from the freezer is possible, but it’s not always the best option. By following the package instructions and using a variety of ingredients and techniques, you can create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust.

Leftover thawed pizza dough can be a valuable resource, and there are many creative ways to use it. One of the best ways to use leftover thawed pizza dough is to make a variety of delicious breads and snacks. For example, you can shape the dough into a ball and bake it in the oven to make a delicious Italian bread. You can also shape the dough into a log and bake it in the oven to make a crispy breadstick.

Another great way to use leftover thawed pizza dough is to make a variety of stuffed breads. For example, you can fill the dough with cheese, meats, or vegetables, and bake it in the oven to make a delicious and satisfying snack. You can also use leftover thawed pizza dough to make a variety of pizzas, such as a classic margherita or a more elaborate topping combination.

In addition to making breads and snacks, you can also use leftover thawed pizza dough to make a variety of other dishes. For example, you can use it to make a delicious focaccia, or a crispy pizza crust. You can also use it to make a variety of desserts, such as a sweet bread or a fruit-filled pastry.

To get the most out of leftover thawed pizza dough, it’s essential to store it properly. You can store it in the refrigerator for several days, or freeze it for later use. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

In conclusion, leftover thawed pizza dough can be a valuable resource, and there are many creative ways to use it. By storing it properly and using a variety of ingredients and techniques, you can create a wide range of delicious breads, snacks, and desserts.

Preventing pizza dough from sticking when thawing is essential to get the best results. When you thaw frozen pizza dough, it can be prone to sticking, which can make it difficult to shape and top. However, there are several ways to prevent pizza dough from sticking when thawing.

One of the best ways to prevent pizza dough from sticking when thawing is to use a lightly floured surface. Simply sprinkle a small amount of flour on the surface, and place the thawing dough on top. This can help to prevent the dough from sticking and make it easier to shape and top.

Another great way to prevent pizza dough from sticking when thawing is to use a piece of parchment paper. Simply place the parchment paper on the surface, and place the thawing dough on top. This can help to prevent the dough from sticking and make it easier to shape and top.

In addition to using a lightly floured surface or parchment paper, you can also use a variety of other techniques to prevent pizza dough from sticking when thawing. For example, you can use a small amount of oil or cooking spray to grease the surface, which can help to prevent the dough from sticking. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life.

To get the most out of preventing pizza dough from sticking when thawing, it’s essential to use a combination of techniques. For example, you can use a lightly floured surface and a piece of parchment paper, and also use a small amount of oil or cooking spray to grease the surface. This can help to prevent the dough from sticking and make it easier to shape and top.

In conclusion, preventing pizza dough from sticking when thawing is essential to get the best results. By using a lightly floured surface, parchment paper, and a variety of other techniques, you can create a wide range of delicious pizzas and snacks.

Freezing leftover pizza dough after thawing is possible, but it’s not always the best option. When you thaw frozen pizza dough, it can be prone to sticking and becoming tough, which can make it difficult to shape and top. However, if you need to freeze leftover pizza dough, it’s essential to follow some guidelines to get the best results.

To freeze leftover pizza dough, simply shape it into a ball or log, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped dough in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, and label it with the date and contents. You can then store the frozen dough in the freezer for several months, and thaw it when you’re ready to use it.

One of the benefits of freezing leftover pizza dough is that it can help to preserve the dough and extend its shelf life. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that frozen dough may not be as flavorful or textured as freshly thawed dough, and may require some additional time and effort to get the best results.

To get the most out of freezing leftover pizza dough, it’s essential to follow some guidelines. For example, you can use a variety of ingredients, such as sugar or salt, to help preserve the dough and extend its shelf life. You can also use a variety of techniques, such as wrapping the dough tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, to help prevent freezer burn and keep the dough fresh.

In addition to freezing leftover pizza dough, you can also use a variety of other techniques to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. For example, you can use a preferment, such as a biga or a sourdough starter, to add more flavor and complexity to the dough. You can also use a variety of toppings, such as sauces, cheeses, and meats, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

To get the most out of using a preferment, it’s essential to mix it with the frozen dough and let it rise for several hours. This can help to create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust. You can also use a variety of ingredients, such as herbs, spices, and cheeses, to add more flavor and interest to the finished crust.

In conclusion, freezing leftover pizza dough after thawing is possible, but it’s not always the best option. By following some guidelines and using a variety of ingredients and techniques, you can create a more complex flavor profile and improve the texture of the finished crust.