Family movie nights are always something we look forward to after a long, busy week. Check out my easy olive oil pizza crust–it’s always a hit!
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At least once a week, we have a family night. Whether we watch a movie, play a game or simply make cookies, we make a point to stop and enjoy each other. Going to the movies as a family is mighty expensive, so we love to buy new release Blu-Ray/DVDs and make a special night of it…saving us so much money!
Last week, for our Pizza Friday, I had an EXTRA special surprise up my sleeve: Minions. It was released on December 8th and the girls were dying to see it all summer. Since I had them wait until it hit stores, I wanted to make it extra special for them.
Last week, I picked up the Minions Blu-Ray/DVD. After finding the movie, I noticed the pajamas were on sale. They had Minions onesie pajamas with hoods–I couldn’t resist. The girls need new pajamas, so this was an early holiday treat. Not gonna lie, I was jealous they didn’t have any in MY size!
Pizza Friday is a weekly tradition. Sometimes we make our own, other times we order pick-up. Olivia loves my homemade olive oil pizza crust, so I thought I would whip up a batch Thursday before our surprise Minions movie night. Since each of the girls like different toppings, a MYO pizza topping station was in order. Plus, Ricky and I could add our favorite toppings on our own mini-pizzas. I’m all about veggies, he loves to load up on the meat. The mini pizzas are almost minion shaped, right?
Making your own pizza dough is quite simple, believe it or not. Using yeast always intimidates me, but this EVOO pizza crust recipe is a no-fail! One batch makes 2 large pizza crusts or at least 5 mini crusts. It also freezes perfectly, so you might want to consider doubling the batch!
- 1 1/3 cups warm water
- 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil , plus extra for the bowl
- 3 1/4 - 3 1/2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
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In the bowl of a stand mixer, stir together water, yeast and sugar. Set aside until foamy and bubbling (5-6 minutes).
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Stir in olive oil.
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Add 3¼ cups of flour and salt to the bowl. Using the hook attachment, mix everything at medium speed. Knead for 5 minutes.
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Pour 1 tablespoon EVOO into the bowl and roll the dough in it.
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Cover with a towel for 45-60 minutes.
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Split into 2 sections, roll out crusts with a rolling pin, sprinkling with flour.
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Pizza baking time will vary (at 425º), depending on thickness, toppings, etc. Start your timer at 18 minutes and work until the crust turns golden brown.
If making by hand, not mixer, follow the same directions, but knead with hands for 10 minutes, until soft and smooth--use extra flour if sticky. It takes a little muscle, but it'll be SO worth it!
After school Friday, I told the girls we had something extra special planned. After they unpacked their backpacks, I made them cover their eyes on the couch for the surprise. They were SO shocked and excited, it was the best feeling in the world!
Since the pizza crust was ready, I simply had to get the toppings prepped. Although we like to try fun new pizzas, I kept the traditional toppings this time: ham, pineapple, sausage, pepperoni, spinach, mushrooms and peppers.
I highly suggest rolling out the dough before the kids come make their pizzas. It saves time and it keeps the mess under control. More time for watching the Minions movie, too!
The mini pizzas bake for 8-10 minutes, perfect time to get everything set up for the movie. For Pizza Fridays, it’s a special treat to eat downstairs by the TV. Most nights, we’re around the table in the kitchen, but the girls get to set up their small homework table. Armed with water, yogurt and their hand made pizzas, they were ready for the show!
I love creating unique moments with my girls and this was something they’ll remember for quite some time. During the holidays, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. Taking a moment to stop and cherish your loved ones is essential.
It’s hard to find a movie that we all can enjoy–many movies can be too scary for Gabby or too babyish for the twins. We know that movies featuring the minions will be fun for the whole family. The Minons movie had the BEST music and we all were thoroughly entertained! I call that a Pizza Friday WIN!
Be sure to check out more delicious recipes inspired by the Minions movie release. I’d love to hear about your favorite movie night recipe!
Those pajamas are cute! We have a weekly tradition of pizza on Friday night too. It used to be Sunday, but at some point it became Friday.
Great post!
Movie snacks are the best but we love pizza too, thanks for sharing this helpful information.
Best Regards
Emily Emma recently posted…The Belko Experiment (2016)