Sicilian-Style Square Pizza Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients

Combine the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and instant yeast in the bowl of your stand mixer. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the dough’s texture and flavor.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the water and 2 tablespoons of the extra-virgin olive oil to the bowl. Start mixing on medium speed until everything comes together, then increase to medium-high speed and let it mix for 6 minutes. This process develops the gluten, making the dough stretchy and smooth. You'll know it's ready when the dough sticks to the bottom of the bowl but pulls away from the sides.

3. Prepare Baking Sheet

While the dough is mixing, prepare a 13- by 18-inch rimmed baking sheet by pouring the remaining extra-virgin olive oil onto it and spreading it around to coat the surface. This step prevents the dough from sticking and helps it spread out evenly later on.

4. Transfer and Rise

Transfer the dough to the oiled baking sheet, turning it over so it's coated with oil. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours. During this time, the dough will expand and spread out, nearly touching the edges of the pan.

5. Preheat Oven

About 30 minutes before baking, adjust your oven rack to the lower position and preheat the oven to 550°F. This high temperature is key to achieving a crisp bottom and a bubbling top.

6. Stretch Dough

Once the dough has risen, remove the plastic wrap. With oiled hands, gently push and stretch the dough to fill the pan. Be careful to maintain the air bubbles in the dough, as they contribute to a light, airy crust.

7. Bake Pizza

Top the dough with your desired toppings and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The high heat will ensure the bottom of the pizza is crisp, while the top becomes golden and bubbly.

8. Cool and Serve

After baking, let the pizza cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes at room temperature. This brief resting period allows the crust to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your homemade Sicilian-style square pizza!