Your favorite toppings (pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, etc.)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough:
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast with 1 1/2 cups of warm water (110°F). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2.Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms. Add more flour if necessary, up to 4 cups total.
3.Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Toppings:
1.Preheat Your Oven:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it heats up.
2.Prepare the Sauce and Toppings:
While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza sauce and chop your favorite toppings. Common toppings include pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, and basil.
Step 3: Shape the Dough.
1.Divide and Roll:
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough in half if making two pizzas. Roll out each portion into a round or rectangular shape, depending on your preference..
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza.
Transfer to a Baking Sheet:
If you don’t have a pizza stone, place the rolled-out dough onto a lightly oiled baking sheet or pizza pan.
2.Add the Sauce and Cheese:
Spread 1/4 cup of pizza sauce over each dough round, leaving a small border for the crust. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
3.Add Your Toppings:
Arrange your desired toppings over the cheese. Be creative and add as much or as little as you like!
Step 5: Bake the Pizza.
1.Bake:
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy.
1.Slice and Serve:
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into wedges and enjoy your homemade creation!
Tips for Success:
Crispier Crust: For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Experiment:
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces, cheeses, and toppings to create your perfect pizza.
Enjoy your homemade pizza, and have fun experimenting with different flavors and combinations!