Step 1: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that your yeast is active.
Step 2: Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
Step 3: Gradually add 4 cups of the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a spoon or the dough hook on low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Continue to add the remaining ½ to 1 cup of flour slowly, until the dough comes together and is no longer excessively sticky.
Step 4: If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook and knead on medium-low speed for 7-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead vigorously for 10-15 minutes, until it becomes smooth and springy to the touch.
Step 5: Lightly grease a clean large bowl with olive oil. Place the kneaded dough into the bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
Step 6: Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. For a more flavorful crust, you can refrigerate the dough for 8-24 hours for a slow cold proof.
Step 7: Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions for two medium-sized pizzas.
Step 8: On a lightly floured surface or directly on a piece of parchment paper (for easy transfer), gently stretch or roll each portion of dough into your desired pizza shape and thickness. Be careful not to overwork or tear the dough.
Step 9: Preheat your oven to its highest setting (typically 450-500°F or 230-260°C) with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside for at least 30 minutes. Carefully transfer your shaped dough to the hot stone/sheet.
Step 10: Add your favorite pizza sauce, cheese, and toppings. Bake for 8-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Cooking time will vary based on oven temperature and desired crispness.
Step 11: Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade pizza created with this amazing pizza dough recipe!