Deep Dish Pizza Dough

Serves: 8

   3 1/2 cups flour, divided
   1 (1/4-ounce) package quick-rise dry yeast
   3/4 teaspoon salt
   1 1/4 cups warm water
   2 teaspoons agave
   1 tablespoon olive oil

Deep Dish Pizza Dough is from the Cook'n with Agave collection.

In large bowl of electric mixer, combine 2 1/2 cups of the flour, yeast, and salt. Stir to blend dry ingredients thoroughly. In a small bowl combine the water (115° to 125°F), agave, and oil. Stir to blend well. Add water mixture to flour mixture. Mix to blend, then beat at medium speed until smooth and elastic (about 5 minutes). Stir in about 1/2 cup more flour to make a soft dough. Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Knead until dough is smooth and satiny (8 to 10 minutes), adding just enough flour (up to 1/2 cup) to prevent dough from being sticky. Turn dough into a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in bulk (30 to 40 minutes). Punch dough down, cover with inverted bowl, and let rest 10 minutes; use as directed in recipe.