Additional toppings of choicee.g., mushrooms, bell peppers, onions
Instructions
Make the Dough:
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
Add Water and Oil: Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough begins to form.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, adding more flour as necessary, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Let it Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Pizza:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well; otherwise, a large baking sheet will work.
Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. Press it out with your hands to form a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick, leaving a slight lip around the edges for the crust.
Add Toppings: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and arrange the pepperoni slices and any other toppings you like on top of the cheese.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
Cool and Serve: Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm.