Homemade Pizza Dough

Ingredients:
1/2 Tblsp sugar
1/4 cup water (105 degrees)
1 pkg active dry yeast
3 cups Gold Medal Better for Bread enriched white flour
1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 tsp crushed kosher salt
2 Tblsp olive oil
1/2 Tblsp sugar
3/4 cup water

Preparation:
1. Combine 1/2 Tblsp sugar and 1/4 cup 105 degree water in a measuring cup. Mix to dissolve.

2. Add the yeast to the water and sugar, and mix to dissolve. Set aside.

3. In a mixer bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, olive oil and 1/2 Tblsp sugar. Mix well to blend.

4. When the foam on the yeast mixture reaches the 1/2 cup mark (10-15 minutes), add it to the mixer bowl and set mixer to stir (using dough hook).

5. Using the measuring cup, slowly add water until a tacky (not sticky) dough has formed.

6. Roll dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic (3-5 minutes).

7. Place in a lightly oiled (olive oil) bowl, roll to coat, and cover with a hand towel. Place in a warm spot and allow to rise until doubled in size (1-2 hours).

NOTE: Rising time can be shortened to 45-75 minutes by using a warmed oven. If oven does not have a dough proof setting, preheat the oven on warm and then turn off. Add the covered bowl to the oven only when you can grab and hold the oven grate with your bare hand without undue discomfort.