Homemade Pizza Dough

 

 

When it comes to making your own pizza, there is nothing better than the flavors and textures of homemade dough. While there are many pre-made doughs and crusts available in supermarkets, making homemade pizza dough is both more economical and easier to make than most people think. There is no need for fancy mixing machines or learning how to toss the dough in the air to create a perfect pizza dough. All it takes are a few ingredients and a little time. Whether the pizza is round, square or deep dish, a good homemade dough always brings an added specialty factor to the meal.

Ingredients -
3 cups All-Purpose Flour
1 package of Active Dry Yeast (2-1/2 teaspoons)
1 cup Hot Water (105-115 degrees F)
1 tablespoon Sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon Salt
3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
 
Preparation:

1. Place yeast in a large bowl and add heated water. Let stand for 6-8 minutes to allow yeast to activate.

2. Thoroughly stir in salt, sugar and oil.

3. Gradually stir in 2 cups of flour with a wooden spoon until mixture is smooth. Add remaining flour slowly until dough is slightly sticky. Do not add too much flour as this will result in a tough dough.

4. Lightly cover a smooth working surface with flour. Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until texture is smooth to the touch and slightly silky.

5. Shape dough into a ball, lightly cover with olive oil and place into a bowl. Cover with a light towel and allow dough to rise for about an hour in a warm area.

6. Punch down the risen dough until it is approximately half the original size. Let dough rest again for about five minutes as this will make it easier to stretch out and shape.

7. Transfer dough to a lightly floured working surface for stretching and shaping with hands or a rolling pin. Work out dough evenly into desired shape. Fold dough in half and transfer to baking sheet. Unfold and spread evenly onto baking surface, slightly crimping the edges with fingers. Add toppings and bake.

 


Pizza Making Tips
For a Crunchy Texture

To add a crunchy texture to the dough, sprinkle the baking sheet with about 2 tablespoons of corn meal. This will also make it easier to remove the dough from the sheet once the pizza is cooked.

 



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