Pizza is a universally loved food, and making it at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. But, the secret to great pizza starts with the perfect dough. In this "How To" guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to make the perfect homemade pizza dough from scratch.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add the warm water and olive oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a clean bowl and cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and form it into a ball.
6. Divide the ball into two equal portions and roll them out to fit your pan or pizza stone.
7. Add your desired toppings and bake your pizza in a preheated 425°F oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Tips

• Room temperature ingredients are crucial for successful dough making. Allow your water and olive oil to warm up to room temperature before using them.
• Do not overwork the dough while kneading. This makes the pizza tough.
• Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place. A great spot is your oven with the light turned on.
• Adding a tablespoon of cornmeal to your pizza stone or pan helps prevent sticking and adds extra crunch to your crust.

Making homemade pizza dough may seem intimidating, but with this recipe and our tips, you’ll be a pizza pro in no time. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade pizza, perfect for any occasion.