Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the packet of active dry yeast with 1/2 cup of the warm water (about 110°F or 43°C). Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to the mixture to help activate the yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the salt throughout the flour.
3. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the remaining 1 cup of warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
4. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
6. Form the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap to prevent drafts.
7. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. You can check if it’s ready by gently pressing your finger into the dough; if the indentation remains, it’s ready to be shaped.
8. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions for two pizza crusts.
9. Shape each portion into a ball and let them rest on a floured surface for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.
10. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) while the dough is resting. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well.
11. After resting, take one dough ball and flatten it slightly with your hands. Using a rolling pin, roll it out into a circle about 12 inches in diameter, or to your desired thickness. If the dough resists, let it rest for a few more minutes before rolling again.
12. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings.
13. Carefully slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
14. Once cooked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade Mama Mia Pizza!