Aldi pizza dough

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Resting Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: Makes one large pizza or two medium pizzas

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
   • Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
   • Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment if using a stand mixer, until the dough starts to come together.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
   • If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat it with oil.
   • Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
6. Shape the Dough:
   • Punch down the dough to release the air and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
   • Divide the dough into two equal parts for medium pizzas or keep it whole for one large pizza.
   • Shape each piece into a ball, then use your hands or a rolling pin to flatten and stretch the dough into your desired pizza shape and thickness.
7. Add Toppings and Bake:
   • Transfer the dough to a pizza pan or a piece of parchment paper if using a pizza stone.
   • Add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Serve:
   • Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your homemade Aldi-style pizza dough!