1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in lukewarm water.

Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is frothy.

2. Mix the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

Add the melted butter and the yeast mixture to the flour.

Mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a bit more water.

3. Knead the Dough:

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.

Knead for about 7-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Form the dough into a ball.

4. Let the Dough Rise:

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean cloth.

Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Preheat the Oven:

About 15 minutes before the dough is done rising, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.

6. Shape the Pizza:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a floured surface.

Roll or stretch the dough into your desired shape, about 12 inches in diameter for a traditional round pizza.

7. Add Toppings:

Transfer the shaped dough to a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer to the oven.

Spread a thin layer of your favorite pizza sauce over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.

Add your choice of toppings, finishing with a generous amount of cheese.

8. Bake the Pizza:

Transfer the pizza (on the parchment paper) to your preheated oven or pizza stone.

Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Carefully remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Slice, serve, and enjoy your homemade butter crust pizza!