Easy Four-Ingredient Pizza Dough

Ingredients

• 1.33 cup warm water (no more than 110 degrees F)
• 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (or one 0.25 oz packet)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 3 cup bread flour (plus extra if needed)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp canola oil (plus extra for greasing the bowl)

Steps

1. 1

   In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine 1 1/3 cups of warm water (no hotter than 110°F) with 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar.

2. 2

   Stir the mixture briefly to combine and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top.

3. 3

   In a large mixing bowl, add 3 cups of bread flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk or shake the bowl to distribute the salt.

4. 4

   Add 2 tablespoons of canola oil to the flour mixture, followed by the foamy yeast mixture.

5. 5

   Using a silicone spatula or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.

6. 6

   Lightly grease the mixing bowl with a little oil and set it aside.

7. 7

   Turn the shaggy dough out onto a clean, unfloured surface. Knead the dough by pushing with the heel of your hand and folding it back over itself.

8. 8

   Continue kneading for about 5 minutes until the dough is very smooth and elastic.

9. 9

   Place the dough ball into the oiled bowl, rolling it around to coat the surface with oil, then leave it top-side up.

10. 10

    Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

11. 11

    Once doubled, punch the dough down to release the air and gather it into the center.

12. 12

    Turn the dough out and roll it into a smooth ball. Divide into two portions for two pizzas, or use as one large piece for pizza or cheesy bread.

Notes

The author notes that bread flour is preferred for its texture. If the dough rises for longer than an hour (up to 2 hours), it may become 'blown' or over-proofed, but it is still usable. This recipe can be used for pizza, cheesy bread, or breadsticks.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• vegetarian
• baking
• pizza
• dough
• homemade
• bread flour