Step 1: Mixing the Dough

1. Add lukewarm water to the bowl of a stand mixer.
2. Add flour, yeast, and sugar; mix on low for about 90 seconds until combined.
3. Add oil and mix on speed 2 until absorbed (about 1 minute).
4. Add salt and mix for 1 more minute.
5. Transfer dough to a counter and knead by hand for 1-2 minutes.
6. Cover and bulk ferment for 30 minutes, performing one stretch and fold halfway through.

Hand Mixing Alternative:

• Dissolve yeast in water, mix in flour and sugar, then add oil and salt.
• Cover and rest for 20 minutes, then proceed with kneading and stretching.

• Step 2: Dough Balling & Proofing

  1. Divide dough into 4 equal balls by weight.
  2. Shape into tight balls, pinch the seam closed, and place them in a covered container.
  3. Proof at room temperature (68°F-70°F) for 1-2 hours.
  4. Transfer to the refrigerator for 1-2 days for cold fermentation.
  5. 3-4 hours before baking, bring dough back to room temperature to proof.

  6. Step 3: Preheating the Oven

     1. Set oven +10°F higher than normal if possible.
     2. Place a baking steel in the middle rack.
     3. Preheat oven to 550°F (Convection Bake) and allow it to heat for 1 hour.

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     Step 4: Shaping the Dough

     1. Flour a large bowl and coat the dough ball.
     2. Flatten the dough with fingertips, keeping a circular shape.
     3. Establish a rim by pressing along the perimeter.
     4. Stretch the dough by gently pulling and rotating, maintaining even thickness.
     5. Toss the dough using knuckles for a classic NY-style stretch until 13-14 inches.

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     Step 5: Topping the Pizza

     1. Spread 110g of pizza sauce evenly, leaving a ½-inch rim.
     2. Sprinkle 95g of grated mozzarella OR 5-6 thin slices evenly over the sauce.
     3. Add optional toppings of your choice.

     Tip: Use a kitchen scale to measure toppings precisely!

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     Step 6: Baking the Pizza

     1. Slide the pizza onto the hot baking steel.
     2. Bake at 550°F for 6-8 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
     3. Let it cool slightly, then slice and enjoy!