We’ve always been captivated by the iconic L&B Spumoni Gardens pizza from Brooklyn’s bustling streets. This Italian-American classic boasts a thin crispy crust topped with fresh ingredients that evoke New York’s vibrant food scene.
Originating from a beloved family-run spot it’s no wonder this recipe has won hearts for decades. We’re thrilled to bring you our straightforward take so you can whip up this flavorful pie and savor a taste of tradition right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To bring the authentic flavors of our L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza to your kitchen, we gather these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them by preparation order—starting with the dough, followed by the sauce, and then the toppings—to ensure a smooth process.
Dough Ingredients
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (we recommend proofing it in warm water for 5 minutes to activate)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (around 110°F, measured precisely for optimal dough rise)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted to remove lumps, as this forms the base of the thin crispy crust that defines L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra-virgin for added flavor, used to keep the dough tender)
- 1 teaspoon salt (fine sea salt for even distribution and taste balance)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 can (28 ounces) San Marzano tomatoes (crushed by hand for a chunky texture that captures the fresh essence of New York’s pizza tradition)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced finely to infuse the sauce with aromatic depth)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (rubbed between palms to release oils, enhancing the herbaceous notes)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity, ensuring the sauce complements the crust perfectly)
- Salt and pepper to taste (freshly ground for a vibrant flavor profile)
Topping Ingredients
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (freshly shredded, as this melts smoothly and evokes the gooey appeal of L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (aged for at least 12 months to add a nutty sharpness)
- 1 medium onion (thinly sliced for a subtle crunch and sweetness)
- 1 bell pepper (diced into ½-inch pieces for color and mild flavor)
- Optional: ½ cup sliced pepperoni (uncured for a healthier twist, arranged as the final layer before baking to crisp up)
Required Tools and Equipment
To recreate our authentic L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza at home, we need a selection of essential tools and equipment that ensure precise preparation and optimal baking results. These items help us achieve that signature thin, crispy crust and fresh flavors while maintaining efficiency in the kitchen.
Preparation Tools
We begin with the basics for mixing and prepping ingredients, as these set the foundation for our dough and sauce:
- Large mixing bowl: For combining dough ingredients like yeast and flour, allowing even distribution and proper rising.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring warm water, olive oil, and seasonings to guarantee the perfect dough texture.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough thinly and evenly, mimicking the crisp base of L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Used for slicing vegetables like onions and bell peppers, ensuring clean cuts for even topping distribution.
Cooking and Baking Tools
Once prepped, these tools handle the sauce simmering and pizza baking, elevating our homemade version to restaurant-quality:
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the San Marzano tomato sauce with garlic and oregano, helping us develop rich flavors through gentle heating.
- Pizza stone or baking sheet: Our top recommendation for achieving that authentic crispy crust—preheat in the oven to replicate the high-heat environment of a traditional pizza oven.
- Oven thermometer: Monitors baking temperature accurately; for instance, we aim for 475°F to bake the pizza perfectly without burning the toppings.
- Cheese grater: Specifically for grating mozzarella and Parmesan, ensuring they melt smoothly and evenly over the pizza.
Additional Essentials
For a seamless process, we include these handy items that enhance safety and convenience:
- Spatula or pizza peel: Makes it easy to transfer the assembled pizza in and out of the oven without mishandling.
- Timer: Keeps track of cooking times, such as the 10-15 minutes needed for baking, to prevent overcooking our flavorful toppings.
Below is a quick reference table summarizing key tools with their primary uses and recommended specifications for our L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza recipe:
| Tool | Primary Use | Recommended Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | Dough preparation | At least 5-quart capacity |
| Rolling pin | Dough shaping | Wooden or silicone, 12-16 inches long |
| Pizza stone | Baking crust | 14-16 inches diameter, heat-safe up to 500°F |
| Oven thermometer | Temperature monitoring | Digital for accuracy within ±5°F |
| Sharp knife | Ingredient chopping | 8-inch blade for precision cutting |
With these tools in hand, we’re fully equipped to move forward and assemble our L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza with confidence and ease.
Instructions
We guide you through crafting our authentic L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza with straightforward steps that capture its crispy crust and fresh flavors. Follow these instructions closely to recreate this Brooklyn icon in your kitchen using the ingredients and tools we’ve outlined.
Prepare the Dough
In this step, we start by activating the yeast and kneading the dough to achieve a light, airy texture that forms the foundation of our L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza. Begin by dissolving 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm water (around 105-110°F) in a large mixing bowl, stirring until the yeast foams—typically in 5-10 minutes—to ensure it’s active and ready.
Next, add 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture. We mix everything with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, like a soft pillow under your hands.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size—the aroma of fresh yeast will fill your kitchen, signaling it’s ready for the next stage.
Assemble the Pizza
Once the dough is prepared, we move on to layering the flavors that make our L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza so irresistible, building a savory base with sauce and toppings for a melty, vibrant result. Start by rolling out the risen dough on a floured cutting board with a rolling pin to a 12-14 inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick, for that signature thin, crispy crust.
In a medium saucepan, we simmer the sauce by combining 1 can (28 ounces) of San Marzano tomatoes (crushed), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally to release a rich, herbaceous scent.
Spread a thin layer of the sauce over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top with 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 sliced onion, and 1/2 sliced bell pepper for a colorful, fresh contrast—add optional 1/2 cup of pepperoni slices if desired. The combination creates a mouthwatering mosaic that promises gooey cheese and crisp vegetables with every bite.
Bake the Pizza
Finally, we bake our L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza to golden perfection, ensuring a crispy base and bubbly toppings that evoke the bustling ovens of Brooklyn. Preheat your oven to 475°F using an oven thermometer for accuracy, and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to heat for 15-20 minutes.
Carefully transfer the assembled pizza onto the hot stone or sheet with a spatula or pizza peel, then bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and slightly blistered—the kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma of toasted herbs and cheese. For reference, here’s a quick guide to baking variables:
| Baking Factor | Recommended Setting | Time Range (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 475°F | N/A |
| Initial Heat Time | N/A | 15-20 |
| Baking Duration | N/A | 12-15 |
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing, allowing the flavors to settle into a harmonious, savory delight.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help you streamline your L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza experience, we often prepare components in advance so you can enjoy fresh, authentic flavors with minimal effort on the day of baking. This approach keeps the pizza’s thin, crispy crust and vibrant toppings intact while saving time.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We suggest making the dough up to 24 hours in advance for optimal freshness and flavor development. After kneading the dough as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, let it rise once in a warm spot. Once risen, punch it down gently to release air, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate it immediately to slow fermentation and enhance texture. When you’re ready to use it, remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
Making the Sauce in Advance
The signature sauce for L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza can be prepared up to 3 days ahead, allowing the flavors of San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and oregano to meld beautifully. Cook the sauce as directed, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight jar or container. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh taste and prevent spoilage. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in portions using freezer-safe bags or ice cube trays – it keeps for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before assembling your pizza.
Prepping Toppings Early
To capture the essence of New York’s fresh ingredients, we recommend chopping your toppings like onions, bell peppers, and cheese up to 1 day in advance. Use a sharp knife to slice them evenly, then store them separately in the fridge to avoid sogginess. For example:
- Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese: Grate them fresh and keep in a sealed container to preserve moisture.
- Vegetables (onion and bell pepper): Place in a bowl with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture, preventing them from releasing water during baking.
- Optional pepperoni: If using, slice it ahead and layer between parchment paper in a container to avoid sticking.
If you’re planning for a larger gathering, here’s a quick overview of make-ahead timelines in a markdown table for easy reference:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Up to 24 hours | Refrigerate in airtight container | Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before use |
| Sauce | Up to 3 days (refrigerate) or 3 months (freeze) | Airtight jar or freezer bags | Thaw overnight in fridge for best results |
| Toppings | Up to 1 day | Refrigerate in sealed containers | Keep vegetables dry to maintain crispness |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your homemade L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza remains effortless yet true to its iconic Brooklyn roots.
Conclusion
We’ve loved diving into the L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza recipe with you
It’s a simple way to capture Brooklyn’s spirit right in your kitchen
Let’s savor each bite and keep this timeless tradition thriving in our homes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza?
L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza is an iconic Brooklyn-style pie known for its thin, crispy crust and fresh ingredients that capture New York’s vibrant food culture. Originating from a family-run establishment, it’s celebrated for its enduring popularity and authentic flavors, blending simple, high-quality elements like San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella.
What are the key ingredients for the dough?
The dough requires active dry yeast, warm water, all-purpose flour, olive oil, and salt. These ingredients create a light, airy base that’s easy to prepare at home, reflecting the traditional recipe from L&B Spumoni Gardens for an authentic taste.
How do I prepare the sauce for this pizza?
Start with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, dried oregano, sugar, and seasoning. Simmer in a medium saucepan until thickened, about 20-30 minutes, to achieve a flavorful, balanced sauce that complements the pizza’s fresh toppings.
What tools do I need to make this pizza at home?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a rolling pin, cutting board, sharp knife, medium saucepan, pizza stone or baking sheet, oven thermometer, cheese grater, spatula or pizza peel, and a timer. These essentials ensure a crispy crust and even baking.
What are the step-by-step instructions for making the pizza?
First, activate the yeast and knead the dough, letting it rise. Roll out the dough, spread the sauce, add toppings like mozzarella, Parmesan, onions, bell peppers, and optional pepperoni, then bake at the recommended temperature until golden. This process takes about 1-2 hours total.
Can I prepare components of the pizza in advance?
Yes, make the dough up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it for better texture. Prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance or freeze for up to 3 months. Chop toppings like onions and bell peppers a day ahead and store them properly to keep things fresh and convenient.
