Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• ¾ cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Cornmeal (for dusting)

For the Toppings: ( * if for “Optional”)

• 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced*
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for caramelizing onions)*
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ cup dried figs, chopped*
• ½ cup goat cheese, crumbled*
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded*
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)*
• ½ cup arugula*
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling)*
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a small amount of flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more water.
4. Let the dough rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Cook the onions: While the dough is rising, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes. The onions should become soft and golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
2. Season: Once caramelized, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Oven

1. Preheat your pizza oven to around 700°F (or the highest heat it can reach). Let it heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure the oven surface is nice and hot.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

1. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a round shape, about 10-12 inches in diameter.
2. Transfer to pizza peel: Dust a pizza peel (or inverted baking sheet) with cornmeal to prevent sticking. Carefully transfer the rolled dough onto the peel.
3. Add the toppings:
   • Spread a thin layer of caramelized onions evenly across the dough.
   • Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and shredded mozzarella over the onions.
   • Add the chopped figs and thyme leaves on top of the cheese, distributing them evenly across the pizza.

Step 5: Cook the Pizza

1. Bake in the pizza oven: Using the pizza peel, transfer the pizza to the hot pizza stone inside the oven. Bake for 4-6 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
2. Watch closely: Depending on the heat of your pizza oven, this pizza cooks very quickly, so be sure to monitor it and rotate the pizza halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Finish the Pizza

1. Top with arugula: Once the pizza is out of the oven, scatter fresh arugula over the hot pizza. The residual heat will wilt the arugula slightly, but it will still maintain a fresh bite.
2. Drizzle with balsamic glaze: For a sweet and tangy finishing touch, drizzle the pizza with balsamic glaze.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice and serve this sweet, savory, and tangy pizza hot from the oven. The caramelized onions bring deep richness, the figs add natural sweetness, and the goat cheese delivers a creamy contrast. The arugula and balsamic glaze elevate the flavors with freshness and acidity. It’s a sophisticated yet approachable pizza that will impress your guests.

Additional Tips:

• Customize the cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge overnight for a deeper flavor. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
• Add a protein: For a heartier pizza, consider adding some prosciutto, sausage, or grilled chicken on top before baking.

This unique pizza combines sweet, savory, and earthy flavors, with a perfect crispy crust and a luxurious finish. It’s a gourmet experience straight from your outdoor pizza oven—ideal for a special occasion or a fun weeknight dinner with friends and family.

Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious creation! 🍕🔥