STEP 1: Prepare the yeast. In a small bowl add ¼ cup of the warm water (make sure is lukewarm and not too hot!). Add yeast and sugar and stir. Leave in a warm place for 10-15 minutes or until bubbly to activate the yeast.

STEP 2: In a large bowl or standing mixer, add 1 cup flour, salt, garlic powder, and dried basil. Mix.

STEP 3: Add the olive oil, the leftover warm water (1/2 cup), and yeast mixture to the bowl or mixer. Mix with a wooden spoon or with the hook attachment if you’re using a standing mixer, until well combined.

STEP 4: Slowly start adding the remaining flour (1 1/3 cup) until the mixture scrapes off the bowl.

STEP 5: Transfer the dough to a clean surface dusted with flour and knead for 5 minutes. Form a dough ball.

STEP 6: Transfer the dough ball to the greased bowl and cover with a damp kitchen towel. Let rise until it has doubled in size. Tip: If you live in a cooler climate, turn the oven on for 2-3 minutes, then turn off and let the dough rise inside the oven. The leftover warmth in the oven will help the dough proof quicker.

STEP 7: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently deflate and knead 3-5 times to form a smooth ball. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and shape with a rolling pin or with your hands into a 12” circle.

STEP 8: Transfer to a pizza pan. You can choose to line the pizza pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Pinch or fold the borders to form a pizza crust.

STEP 9: Lightly grease the surface of the pizza with olive oil and poke holes with a fork in the center to avoid any bubbling during baking.

STEP 10: Add any toppings you would like to use (tomato sauce, cheese, pepperoni, etc.).

STEP 11: Bake in a preheated oven until crisp and golden (13-15 minutes). Slice and serve.