Ingredients:

  • 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour or
  • flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons (8g) salt
  • 1 teaspoon (4g) sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons (6g) active dry yeast
  • 1 ¾ cups (420ml) warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil (optional for added flavor)

Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy (about 5-10 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
  3. Create a well in the flour mixture, pour in yeast mixture (and olive oil if using), and stir until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the risen dough, divide into two portions, and shape each into a ball.
  7. For enhanced flavor, cover and refrigerate the dough for 1-24 hours. Allow dough to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
  8. Preheat oven with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to 475°F (245°C) for at least 30 minutes.
  9. On a floured surface, stretch or roll out dough to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch for thin crust).
  10. Transfer to a pizza peel or baking sheet, add toppings, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until crust is golden and toppings are bubbly.