All-American Pizza Crust

• all-purpose flour↗2 1⁄2 cups
• fast rise yeast↗1 1⁄4 ounces

  (package)

• salt↗1 1⁄2 teaspoons
• water↗1 cup
• vegetable oil↗2 tablespoons

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. 2

   In a mixer bowl, combine 1 cup flour, yeast and salt; mix well.

3. 3

   Combine water and oil; heat to 120 - 130 F, add to flour mixture.

4. 4

   Blend at low speed until moistened; beat 3 minutes at medium speed. By hand, gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a firm dough. Knead on floured surface 3 - 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Divide dough into 2 parts. With well-floured or greased fingers, press each half into greased 12 or 14-inch pizza pan. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of your favorite shredded cheese over dough to prevent a soggy crust.

6. 6

   Spread prepared pizza sauce on each pizza (approximately 3/4 cup of sauce per pizza).

7. 7

   Add your favorite toppings. Cover with shredded cheese of your choice.

8. 8

   Bake at 400°F for 25 - 30 minutes (see NOTE below) until edge is crisp and light golden brown and cheeses are melted. Serve immediately.

9. 9

   Note: It may not take the full time. In my oven, it was about 20 minutes.