You Say Cake Pan, I Say Detroit-Style Masterpiece: Debunking the Pizza Pan Myth
Calling all home pizzaiolos (or is it pizzaioli?) and budget-conscious carb connoisseurs! Have you ever craved that deep-dish, crispy-edged, cheesy glory that is Detroit-style pizza, but balked at the idea of buying a fancy new pan? Well, my friends, prepare to have your minds (and stomachs) blown. Because the answer to your pizza prayers is a resounding YES, you absolutely can make Detroit-style pizza in a cake pan!
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| Can You Make Detroit Style Pizza In A Cake Pan |
But Wait, There's More! (Because There Always Is)
Now, before you go raiding your grandma's vintage Pyrex collection, there are a few things to keep in mind. While a trusty cake pan will get you 90% of the way to Detroit-style nirvana, there are some nuances to consider:
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- Size Matters (But Not THAT Much): Detroit-style pizzas are known for their rectangular shape and generous size. A standard 9x13 inch cake pan will work just fine, but if you have a bigger one (think lasagna pan), feel free to unleash your inner pizza architect and create a rectangular masterpiece.
- Material Magic: While any cake pan will technically bake a pizza, opt for a metal pan for optimal heat distribution. This will help achieve that signature crispy, caramelized cheese crust that's the hallmark of Detroit-style. Glass or ceramic pans tend to insulate more, leading to a softer crust (still delicious, but not quite the Detroit dream).
- The Power of Preheating: Detroit-style pizza thrives on high heat. Crank your oven up to 500°F (260°C) and preheat your pan for at least 15 minutes. This creates a screaming hot surface that sears the dough and cheese on contact, resulting in that oh-so-satisfying crunch.
Embrace the Hack, my Friend
Here's the beauty of the cake pan approach: it's approachable, adaptable, and lets you unleash your creativity. Don't have brick cheese (a Detroit-style staple)? Mozzarella works just fine. Craving pepperoni and peppers? Pile 'em on! Just remember, the key is to get the cheese all the way to the edges of the pan for that glorious caramelized crust.
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Pro Tip: Brush the edges of your pan with a thin layer of oil before adding the dough. This extra layer of fat will help ensure maximum crispness.
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You've Got Questions, We've Got Answers (The Detroit-Style Pizza Cake Pan FAQ)
How to make the dough? Plenty of Detroit-style dough recipes exist online. Look for one that uses high-protein flour and a bit of oil for extra richness.
How long to bake the pizza? Bake time can vary depending on your oven and pan size. Start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark, looking for a golden brown crust and bubbly cheese.
What toppings are best? Detroit-style is all about customization. Pepperoni, sausage, veggies, go wild! Just remember, keep the toppings within reason so the cheese can still get nice and crispy.
How to get the cheese all the way to the edges? Once you've stretched your dough into the pan, use a spoon to gently push and nudge the dough edges, creating a well for the cheese. Pile it high, right up to the rim!
Can I use a glass or ceramic cake pan? In a pinch, yes. But expect a softer crust. For the ultimate Detroit-style experience, metal is the way to go.
So there you have it, folks. The next time that Detroit-style pizza craving hits, don't let the lack of a fancy pan hold you back. Grab your trusty cake pan, crank up the heat, and get ready to create a pizza masterpiece that's both delicious and budget-friendly. Now go forth and conquer your carb cravings!
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