Ingredients:
2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
Instructions:
Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Mix the dough: Add 3 1/2 cups of flour, olive oil, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should spring back when lightly pressed with your finger.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven: If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven and preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes before baking pizzas.
Divide and shape: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 2 equal portions (this will make 2 large pizzas or 4 smaller ones). Shape each portion into a ball and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes, covered with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each dough ball into a circle or rectangle of desired thickness. If the dough resists stretching, let it rest for a few minutes and try again.
Top and bake: Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or lightly greased baking sheet. Add your desired pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings.
Bake the pizza: If using a pizza stone, carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated stone in the oven. If using a baking sheet, place it directly in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy your homemade pizza!
This dough recipe yields a versatile base for your favorite pizza creations. Adjust the thickness of the crust by rolling it out thinner or thicker according to your preference.
