Ingredients:

  • 3 1/2 cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 3/4 cups (420ml) lukewarm water (around 105-115°F or 40-46°C)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) active dry yeast (or 1 1/4 teaspoon (6ml) instant yeast)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil, plus more for coating the bowl

Instructions:

  1. In the mixing bowl, combine lukewarm water and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy.
  2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Don't overmix.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let rise in a warm place for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator (up to 24 hours).
  4. Gently turn the dough out onto a heavily floured surface. Divide in half (or leave whole for a large pizza). Gently stretch and shape each portion into a round or rectangle.
  5. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible (usually 500-550°F or 260-290°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
  6. Carefully transfer the shaped dough to a pizza peel dusted with flour or cornmeal (or directly onto the preheated baking sheet). Add your desired toppings. Don't overload!
  7. Slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone/baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
  8. Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!