Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar with 1 1/2 cups of warm water (about 110°F or 43°C). Stir gently to dissolve the yeast and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix the dry ingredients together using a whisk or a fork to ensure they are evenly distributed.
3. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour the yeast and olive oil mixture into the well. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until a dough begins to form.
5. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a little at a time, until it reaches a smooth, elastic consistency. You may need to use up to 4 cups of flour total, depending on humidity and other factors.
6. Once the dough is formed, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. To knead, fold the dough over itself, push down with the heel of your hand, and rotate it a quarter turn. Repeat this process until the dough is well-kneaded.
7. Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
8. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions for two pizza crusts.
9. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) while you shape the pizza crusts. On a floured surface, take one portion of dough and roll it out with a rolling pin to your desired thickness, typically about 1/4 inch thick for a classic Pizza Hut-style crust.
10. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat the process with the second portion of dough.
11. Before adding toppings, you can pre-bake the crusts for about 5 minutes to give them a head start. Remove from the oven, add your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings, and then return to the oven.
12. Bake the pizzas for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
13. Once done, remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade pizza crusts that resemble Pizza Hut's delicious style!