Prep Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
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combine the warm water and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
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In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt.
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Add the olive oil to the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
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Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands, until a dough begins to form.
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Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour as needed.
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Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise warmly for about 1-2 hours until it has doubled.
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Punch it down once the dough has risen to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into two portions to make two pizzas, or leave it as a whole for one larger pizza.
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At this point, you can use the dough immediately or refrigerate it later. If refrigerating, place the dough in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before using it.
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To roll out the dough, lightly flour a clean surface and use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into your desired pizza shape and thickness.
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Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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add your favorite toppings, such as tomato sauce, cheese, vegetables, or meat.
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Preheat your oven to the highest temperature (usually around 500°F or 260°C) and bake the pizza for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.