Easy Homemade Pizza Dough

Instructions

1. 1. Whisk the warm water, granulated sugar, and yeast together. Cover and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
2. 2. Add the flour, olive oil, and salt. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
3. 3. Knead the dough for 5 full minutes. If the dough becomes too sticky during the kneading process, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of flour at a time to make a soft, slightly tacky dough.
4. 4. Lightly grease a large bowl with oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning it to coat all sides in the oil. Allow the dough to rise at room temperature for 60–90 minutes or until double in size.
5. 5. Preheat oven to 475°F (246°C). Lightly grease baking sheet or pizza pan with nonstick spray or olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with cornmeal.
6. 6. Punch down risen dough to release air bubbles. Divide the dough in half. Gently flatten the dough into a disc. Place on prepared pan and stretch and flatten the disc into a 12-inch circle, about 1/2-inch thick. If the dough keeps shrinking back as you try to stretch it, stop what you’re doing, cover it lightly for 5–10 minutes, then try again.
7. 7. Cover dough lightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow to rest for a few minutes as you prepare your pizza toppings.
8. 8. Using your fingers, press dents into the surface of the dough to prevent bubbling. Lightly brush olive oil over the top of the crust. Sprinkle with minced garlic (if using), then spread on 1/2 cup (125g) pizza sauce, and top with 2 cups (227g) shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with any additional toppings of your choice and bake for 13–15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
9. 9. Slice hot pizza and serve immediately. Cover leftover pizza tightly and store in the refrigerator.