We’ve always been fans of the iconic L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza from Brooklyn’s bustling streets where Italian-American traditions thrive. This recipe captures the essence of their legendary pie with its thin crispy crust layered in rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
It’s our go-to for bringing authentic New York flavors into your kitchen without the trip. Join us as we simplify this classic so you can enjoy a slice of history right at home.
Ingredients
To bring the authentic flavors of our L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza to your kitchen, we’ve compiled a precise list of ingredients below. We’ll organize them by category for clarity, ensuring you select high-quality items that deliver the signature thin, crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese that make this Brooklyn classic unforgettable.
Dough Ingredients
These form the base of our pizza, providing a light and airy texture when prepared correctly.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (we recommend proofing it in warm water for 5 minutes to ensure it’s active)
- 1 cup warm water (around 110°F, for activating the yeast)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (use a high-gluten variety for that authentic crispy edge)
- 1 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor and structure)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for a subtle richness and to prevent sticking)
Sauce Ingredients
This simple sauce captures the hearty, tomato-forward taste central to the L&B tradition.
- 1 can (28 ounces) San Marzano tomatoes (crushed by hand for a chunky texture that builds depth)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced for a fresh, aromatic punch)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (rub between your fingers to release oils and intensify the herbal notes)
- ½ teaspoon salt (to balance the tomatoes’ acidity)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing and adding a silky finish)
Cheese and Toppings
For that irresistible gooey melt, focus on fresh, high-quality cheese and minimal toppings to stay true to the original recipe.
- 2 cups whole milk mozzarella cheese (shredded or torn for even melting and a stretchy consistency)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nutty, savory contrast to the mozzarella)
- Optional: ½ cup sliced pepperoni (use thin slices if you want a classic topping, but keep it sparse for authenticity)
With these ingredients measured and prepped, you’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps in the next section.
Instructions
We walk you through creating our take on the classic L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza, blending simple steps with authentic Italian-American flavors to deliver a crispy crust and rich taste in your own home. Let’s dive into the preparation for this beloved Brooklyn staple.
Prepare the Dough
Begin by activating 1 packet of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm water, stirring until it dissolves and bubbles form—this ensures a light, airy base. In a large mixing bowl, we combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, then create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it forms a smooth, elastic ball that springs back when pressed, evoking the fresh, chewy texture of traditional New York pizza dough. Pro Tip: Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl covered with a damp cloth for 1 hour in a warm spot, doubling in size for that signature crispiness.
Make the Sauce
We start the sauce by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, releasing an aromatic blend of earthy and pungent notes.
Crush a 28-ounce can of San Marzano tomatoes by hand into the pan, stirring in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and ½ teaspoon of salt to create a chunky, vibrant sauce that simmers for 15-20 minutes. The result is a thick, tangy topping with a deep red hue and fresh herbaceous scent, perfectly balancing sweetness and acidity for L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza authenticity.
Prepare Toppings
Slice 8 ounces of whole milk mozzarella into thin pieces or shred it for even melting, ensuring creamy pockets that ooze with every bite. Grate ½ cup of Parmesan cheese to add a sharp, nutty contrast, and if using pepperoni, slice 4 ounces into thin rounds for a spicy, savory kick.
We arrange these on a plate, ready for assembly—the mozzarella’s silky texture and Parmesan’s bold flavor promise the gooey, irresistible topping layer that defines this iconic pizza.
Assemble the Pizza
Once the dough has risen, we roll it out on a floured surface to a 12-14 inch circle, about ¼ inch thick, for that thin, crispy base New Yorkers crave. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza stone, then spread 1 cup of the prepared sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border for the crust.
Layer on the sliced mozzarella and grated Parmesan, adding pepperoni if desired, to build a colorful, cheese-laden masterpiece that hints at the melted, bubbly goodness awaiting in the oven.
Bake the Pizza
Preheat your oven to 475°F with a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to mimic a professional oven’s heat. We slide the assembled pizza onto the hot surface and bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the crust turns golden and blistered with a satisfying crunch, and the cheese bubbles into a molten, savory blanket.
Monitor closely to achieve the perfect char, capturing the essence of L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza‘s smoky, irresistible finish.
Conclusion
We’ve loved guiding you through this L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza recipe
and know you’ll capture that authentic Brooklyn vibe in your kitchen.
It’s a fun way to bring people together over homemade slices.
Let’s savor these flavors and create lasting memories with every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza?
L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza is a classic Brooklyn-style pie known for its thin, crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. It’s a beloved Italian-American favorite, perfect for gatherings, featuring simple yet flavorful ingredients that capture New York’s pizza tradition.
What are the key ingredients for this pizza?
The main ingredients include dough made from active dry yeast, warm water, all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil; sauce with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and olive oil; and toppings like whole milk mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and optional pepperoni. Use high-quality items for the best flavor.
How do I make the dough for L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza?
Start by activating yeast in warm water, then mix with flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead until smooth and let it rise for about an hour for a light, airy texture. This step ensures a crispy base that mimics the original Brooklyn style.
How do I prepare the sauce?
Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add crushed San Marzano tomatoes, oregano, and salt. Simmer for 15-20 minutes to develop a rich, flavorful sauce. This simple process captures the authentic taste of L&B Spumoni Gardens Pizza right at home.
What’s the best way to assemble and bake the pizza?
Roll out the dough, spread the sauce evenly, layer with mozzarella and Parmesan, and add optional pepperoni. Bake at 475°F for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy. This high-heat method helps recreate the signature texture of the original pizza.
Can I customize the toppings or ingredients?
Yes, you can swap pepperoni for other meats or veggies, but stick to whole milk mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes for the classic flavor. Experiment while keeping the core ingredients to maintain the authentic Brooklyn taste.
How long does it take to make this pizza from start to finish?
Total time is about 1.5 to 2 hours, including 1 hour for dough rising, plus prep and baking. It’s straightforward for home cooks, allowing you to enjoy a taste of L&B Spumoni Gardens without leaving your kitchen.