Combine 1.5 c flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl.
Add warm water mixture and beat with electric mixer for 3 min.
Stir in additional 1.5 c flour by hand to form a soft dough.
Turn onto floured surface.
Knead dough for 10 min, adding the remaining 1/2 c flour if needed, to keep dough from sticking.
Dough should be smooth and elastic, but not sticky when kneading is complete.
Shape dough into ball and place in a large greased bowl, turning dough to grease top.
Cover with a damp cloth. Let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes.
Preheat oven to 450. Punch dough down and divide in half.
Dough may be frozen at this point if desired, for later use.
Press half of dough out into 13-14 in circle directly on greased baking sheet or stone. A rolling pin may be used if desired.
Form a thick ridge around edge for holding in toppings.
Prick the surface of the dough thoroughly with fork.
Pre-bake the crust 10-15 min until lightly browned. Add favorite sauce and toppings, and bake additional 10-15 min until crust is crisp and cheese is lightly browned.
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