Directions
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, instant yeast, and salt, keeping the salt and yeast separate initially (salt can inhibit yeast activation). Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when poked gently with your finger.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp tea towel or plastic wrap, and leave to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This slow fermentation develops gluten and creates flavor in your crust.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>While the dough rises, cook the bacon pieces in a frying pan over medium heat until just beginning to crisp but not fully cooked (they'll finish cooking in the oven). Drain on paper towels and set aside.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Place your pizza stone or baking steel in the oven and preheat to 250°C (480°F) for at least 30 minutes. This high heat is crucial for a crispy crust that can support your toppings.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release excess air. On a well-floured surface, roll or stretch the dough into a 30cm (12-inch) round. If the dough springs back too much, let it rest for 5 minutes before trying again – this relaxes the gluten.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Transfer the dough to a flour-dusted pizza peel or upside-down baking sheet. Work quickly to prevent sticking by giving the peel a gentle shake occasionally to ensure the dough moves freely.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the dough, leaving a 1cm border for the crust. Distribute the bacon pieces evenly over the cheese, creating four small wells where you'll later place the eggs.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone or steel in the oven. Bake for 5 minutes until the cheese begins to melt and the crust starts to set but is not yet browned.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Open the oven and quickly crack each egg into the wells you created. This two-stage baking process ensures the eggs don't overcook while the crust gets perfectly crisp. Return to the oven and bake for another 6-8 minutes, until the egg whites are set but the yolks remain slightly runny (or longer if you prefer firmer yolks).</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4>Remove from the oven when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped chives and black pepper. Let the pizza rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing – this allows the eggs to set slightly and makes for cleaner slices. Serve immediately while still hot and enjoy your delicious breakfast creation!</li></ol>