Place the warm water and sugar in a large mixing bowl* and stir together to combine.
Sprinkle the yeast on top and allow it to dissolve.
When the mixture looks foamy (after approx. 5 to 10 minutes), stir in 2 cups of the flour until incorporated.
Stir in the olive oil, garlic powder, and salt.
While continuing to mix, add in more flour until the dough gathers itself into a ball and pulls away from the sides of the bowl cleanly. (You may need slightly more or less flour; use your judgement.)
Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic (min. 10 minutes).
Divide the dough into 32 equal portions (approx. 1 ounce each).
Roll each portion into a rope (approx. 8 inches long), then tie it into a knot and tucking the ends under the knot (see photos above).