Homemade Pizza

Homemade pizza is a freshly baked dish made with a dough base, topped with sauce, cheese, and your choice of ingredients. It’s customizable, delicious, and perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• Toppings of choice (pepperoni, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, etc.)
• Cornmeal for dusting

Directions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 475°F and place a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it in half; roll out one half into a 12-inch circle on a cornmeal-dusted peel or parchment paper.
7. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese and add your favorite toppings.
8. Transfer the pizza onto the hot stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
9. Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve.