This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to make pizza dough from scratch, perfect for any pizza night.
Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a mixing bowl and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
Mix 2 1/2 cups of the flour, salt, and cornmeal in a separate bowl.
Sifting the flour can help avoid lumps and ensure even mixing.
Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Knead the dough on a floured surface, adding the remaining flour gradually, until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
Kneading develops the gluten, which gives the dough its structure.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
A warm, draft-free environment is ideal for rising.
Punch down the dough and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
The second rise helps develop flavor and texture.
Shape the dough into your desired pizza base, add toppings, and bake at 500°F for 8-10 minutes.
Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.