_When you think about pizza, it’s more than just a meal — it’s an experience. From the aroma of melting cheese to the crunch of a well-baked crust, every element matters. And one of the most defining characteristics of any pizza is the crust. Among the many crust styles available today, hand tossed pizza remains a timeless favorite. But what is it exactly? Why do popular chains like Domino’s and Pizza Hut offer it so proudly? And how does it compare with other crust types like pan pizza?
Let’s take a deep dive into the world of hand tossed pizza and uncover everything you need to know.
What Is Hand Tossed Pizza?
At its core, hand_tossed_pizza refers to the method used to shape the dough. Skilled hands stretch and spin hand tossed dough — often tossing it into the air — unlike pan or deep-dish pizza, which rises thick after being pressed into a pan.
This technique results in:
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A slightly thinner, crispier edge
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A light, airy interior
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A more authentic Italian texture
Because the dough isn’t pressed or forced into shape, it keeps more of its natural structure, creating that chewy yet crisp bite pizza lovers crave.
Hand Tossed Pizza vs Pan Pizza: The Crust Wars
While both styles are delicious in their own right, they cater to different preferences. So, let’s break down the main differences between hand tossed pizza vs pan pizza.
| Feature | Hand Tossed Pizza | Pan Pizza |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Light, chewy, and airy | Thick, dense, and buttery |
| Crust | Crispy on outside, soft inside | Crunchy and greasy |
| Cooking Method | Baked on stone or wire rack | Cooked in oiled pan |
| Grease Level | Moderate | High due to pan oil |
| Popularity | Classic lovers | Deep-dish fans |
If you prefer a lighter pizza with crisp edges and a chewy bite, hand tossed is your winner. On the other hand, pan pizza is ideal for those who enjoy a richer, more filling slice.
Hand Tossed Pizza at Domino’s: A Crowd Favorite
Domino’s proudly offers hand_tossed_pizza crust as one of its most popular choices. Their chefs make the dough fresh, stretch it by hand, and bake it to achieve the perfect balance of crunch and softness. They follow artisanal techniques that clearly reflect in the crust’s texture and quality.
Whether you go for a Domino’s extravaganzza hand_tossed_pizza loaded with toppings or a simple pepperoni, the crust holds up beautifully.
Highlights of Domino’s Hand Tossed Pizza:
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Not too thick, not too thin
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Lightly seasoned with garlic oil
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Pairs well with heavy toppings
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Crisps perfectly in delivery boxes
Hand Tossed Pizza at Pizza Hut: A Different Approach
Pizza Hut also offers hand_tossed_pizza, although their approach differs slightly. While Domino’s keeps the crust on the thinner, crispier side, Pizza Hut’s hand tossed version is a bit fluffier.
So, when choosing between pan vs hand_tossed_Pizza Hut, it boils down to how thick and buttery you want your crust. The pan crust is nearly fried due to oil in the pan, while hand tossed is more baked and bread-like.
What Makes Hand Tossed Pizza Unique?
There’s a reason this crust style is featured in so many pizza chains. Let’s look at what makes hand_tossed_pizza stand out:
1. Authenticity
Many traditional Italian pizzas are hand tossed. This method has been used for centuries and reflects the roots of pizza making.
2. Better Texture
Since there’s no compression or mechanical shaping, the dough retains more air pockets, which creates a more dynamic chew.
3. Topping Friendly
Unlike super thin crusts, hand tossed can handle a generous amount of toppings without getting soggy.
4. Healthier Choice
Compared to deep dish or pan pizzas, hand_tossed_pizza crust usually contains less oil and fewer calories per slice.
How Is Hand Tossed Pizza Made? (Step-by-Step)
Let’s walk through how pizza makers craft a perfect hand_tossed_pizza from start to finish:
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Prepare the Dough: Mix flour, water, yeast, and salt, then let the dough rise for several hours to build flavor and elasticity.
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Shape the Base: Roll the dough into a ball, then stretch and spin it into a circular shape using your hands — no machines involved.
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Toss the Dough: Toss the dough in the air to create even thickness and add lightness to the crust.
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Add Toppings: Spread the sauce, sprinkle cheese, and pile on your favorite toppings.
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Bake the Pizza: Slide the pizza onto a hot stone or wire rack and bake it until the bottom turns crisp and the edges turn golden brown.
Best Toppings for Hand Tossed Pizza
While you can add just about anything to hand_tossed_pizza, some toppings really shine with its structure:
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Pepperoni and sausage
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Mushrooms, onions, and peppers
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Fresh basil and tomato (Margherita style)
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Chicken and bacon ranch
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Four cheese blend
Because of the crust’s versatility, it can handle both light and heavy toppings.
Why People Prefer Hand Tossed Pizza
When pizza lovers are asked about their favorite crust, many gravitate toward hand tossed pizza for one simple reason — balance. It delivers the perfect middle ground between chewy and crispy, light and satisfying.
Here’s why it’s loved:
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Less oily than pan pizza
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More texture than thin crust
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Feels “handcrafted”
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Reheats well (crisp returns in oven)
Pan vs Hand Tossed Pizza Hut: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re ordering from Pizza Hut and confused between hand tossed vs pan, ask yourself:
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Do you want flavor-rich crust with a buttery, almost fried texture? Go pan.
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Want something more balanced and classic? Choose hand tossed.
Both are good — but different in personality.
Final Thoughts
Absolutely. Whether it’s from Domino’s, Pizza Hut, or your local pizzeria, hand_tossed_pizza offers a blend of tradition, texture, and taste that’s hard to beat. It’s great for casual dinners, parties, or even the occasional solo indulgence.
Its timeless appeal lies in its simplicity — no fancy tricks, no overload of oil, just good dough, good toppings, and a great bake.
So next time you’re stuck deciding which pizza crust to get, remember: hand_tossed is where tradition meets taste.
FAQs
1. What is hand_tossed_pizza?
Hand_tossed_pizza is a style of crust that’s manually stretched and tossed before baking, resulting in a crisp edge and soft center.
2. Is hand_tossed_pizza better than pan pizza?
That depends on preference. Hand_tossed is lighter and crispier, while pan_pizza is thicker, oilier, and more filling.
3. What’s different about Domino’s hand_tossed_pizza?
Domino’s hand_tossed_pizza features a soft yet crispy crust, seasoned edges, and a chewy base that holds toppings well.
4. Does hand_tossed_pizza have less calories than pan pizza?
Yes, generally it does, since it uses less oil and isn’t cooked in a greasy pan.
5. Can I make hand_tossed_pizza at home?
Yes! You just need good dough, some practice in stretching, and a hot oven or pizza stone.
