Start by combining your lukewarm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a bowl. Allow it to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and frothy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and well.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the bread flour, whole wheat flour (if using), garlic powder, and salt. Combine these dry ingredients thoroughly to evenly distribute the salt and garlic.

Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Add in honey and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough starts to form.

Time to get hands-on! Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 10 minutes. The goal here is to develop gluten and achieve a smooth, elastic texture. If the dough is too sticky, add just a bit more flour.

Shape the dough into a ball. Lightly oil a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Set it aside in a warm area and let it rise until it doubles in size. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air. Divide it into 2 equal portions for large pizzas or keep it whole for a thicker crust. Shape each portion into a circle. Place it on your pizza stone or baking sheet.

Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This allows for better aeration, resulting in a lighter crust.

If you prefer a crispier crust, pre-bake your shaped dough in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 5-7 minutes before adding toppings.

Now comes the fun part! Top your pizza with sauce, cheese, and your favorite toppings. Bake it as per your preferences—usually around 10-15 minutes or until the edges are golden and the cheese is bubbling.