Easy Freeze Bread Dough

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir until evenly mixed.
2. Pour the warm water and olive oil into the dry mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough begins to form.
3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
5. Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Shape it into a ball or divide it into smaller portions.
6. If freezing, wrap the shaped dough tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag.
7. Place the wrapped dough in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months.