Butter-Parmesan Pizza Crust/Dough

Ingredients

• 3 teaspoons dry yeast
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/3 cup butter (melted and cooled or very soft)
• 3 1/2 cups flour (more as needed)
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons italian seasoning (optional)
• 2 teaspoons salt

Directions

1. 1

   In a small bowl or cup mix 2 teaspoons sugar in 1/2 cup warm water until completely dissolved; add in yeast mix slightly with a spoon, then cover with a tea towel and proof for 10 minutes or until foamy.

2. 2

   Meanwhile place the egg in cup and cover with very warm water.

3. 3

   In the stainless steel mixer bowl place 3-1/2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons salt, melted and cooled butter, italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese.

4. 4

   When the yeast is finished proofing add to the mixer bowl with the egg and 3/4 cup warm water; start mixing/kneading adding in more flour to create a soft dough.

5. 5

   Knead up to 8 minutes until a smooth soft dough is achieved.

6. 6

   Remove dough to very lighly floured surface, cover with a clean tea towel and let rest for 8-10 minutes.

7. 7

   Gather up dough and knead gently for about 30 seconds (the dough will come together nicely).

8. 8

   Place in a well-greased bowl, cover and let rise for 1 hour to 2 hours or until doubled (rising time will vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen, since this dough has egg added the rising time will take slightly longer usual).

9. 9

   Remove the dough and divide in half.

10. 10

    Place on a genorously-floured surface; let rest 10 minutes.

11. 11

    Roll out into a round circle then place onto a pizza pan.

12. 12

    Spread with pizza sauce then shredded cheese then favorite toppings.

13. 13

    Bake on lowest oven rack until the dough is browned.