Basic Pizza Dough

Instructions

1. 1

   In large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, the yeast and salt.

2. 2

   With electric mixer, slowly beat in water; beat 2 minutes, occasionally scraping bowl with rubber spatula.

3. 3

   With mixer on medium speed, beat in 1/2 cup flour; beat 2 minutes, until dough is stiff.

4. 4

   Stir in 1 1/2 cups flour.

5. 5

   Sprinkle clean work surface with 1/4 cup flour. Knead dough on floured surface, 6-8 minutes.

6. 6

   Spray large bowl with nonstick spray. Place dough in bowl; cover with plastic wrap and kitchen towel.

7. 7

   Let rise 1 hour or until doubled in volume.

8. 8

   Punch down dough; let rest 15 minutes.

9. 9

   Divide dough in half.

10. 10

    Sprinkle clean work surface with 2 T flour.

11. 11

    Roll 1/2 of dough into 13" round; lift onto a 12" pizza pan.

12. 12

    Pinch edges to form a rim.