What You’ll Need:
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of warm water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes. The mixture will become foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Gradually mix the ingredients together using a fork or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Begin kneading the dough by pushing it away with the heel of your hand, then folding it back over itself. Repeat this process for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Let it Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This will give the dough a more airy and light texture.
Step 5: Punch and Divide
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. On a floured surface, divide the dough into two equal portions if you want to make two pizzas. You can also scale the recipe accordingly for multiple or larger pizzas.
Step 6: Shape and Rest
Take each portion of the dough and shape it into a round ball. Place the dough balls on a floured surface, cover them with a kitchen towel, and let them rest for about 15 minutes. This will make it easier to stretch out the dough later without it springing back.
Step 7: Stretch and Top
Flatten one dough ball with your hands, then start stretching it gently from the center to the edges. You can also use a rolling pin if you prefer a thinner crust. Once your dough is stretched to the desired size and thickness, transfer it to a pizza stone or baking sheet. Add your favorite toppings and sauce.
Step 8: Bake and Enjoy
Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it can reach, usually around 500°F (260°C). Bake your pizza for about 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Once done, take it out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes, then slice and enjoy!
With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to prepare pizza dough like a pro. Get creative with your choice of toppings and experiment with different flavors to personalize your homemade pizzas. The satisfaction of making your own pizza from scratch is truly unbeatable!