Easy Pizza Crust

easy pizza crust

easy peasy extra cheesy

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup warm water

• 1 packet instant yeast (2 and 1/4 teaspoons)

• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour (plus more for surface)

• Course sea salt (for crust)

Preparation:

1. Mix the warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar together in a large bowl, let sit for 5 minutes.

2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Carefully mix until the dough starts to come together. I start with a wooden spoon then switch to my hands once it starts to become drier. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and continue to knead until it comes together into a smooth ball (about 5 minutes). The dough should be smooth and elastic, and should bounce back when you poke it.

3. Grease a large bowl with oil, place the dough in the ball and turn to coat in oil.

4. Cover bowl with a towel and allow to rise in a warm place for about an hour. The dough should double in size. (I usually set mine on top of my preheating oven). 

5. Preheat oven to 450° Flip over a baking sheet and lightly grease. If you have cornmeal you can also sprinkle on the sheet to prevent sticking. 

6. When dough is done, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough in half. On a floured surface shape the dough into a disk. Circle should be about 10-12 inches but thickness of dough is based on personal preference! Place dough on the prepared baking sheet. 

7. Brush the dough with a little olive oil. I like to sprinkle course salt around the crust. Use a fork to prick some vents in the dough to prevent bubbling. Now top your pizza with whatever you like! 

8. Bake for about 12-14 minutes or until cheese is melty and crust has browned. 

9. Enjoy!