New York Bakery-Style Sicilian Pizza

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 slices

New York Bakery-Style Sicilian Pizza is a delightful twist on the classic pizza that originates from the streets of New York. This square-shaped pizza is known for its thick yet airy crust, a robust tomato sauce, and a generous topping of cheese. Unlike its Neapolitan cousin, which features a thin crust, Sicilian pizza provides a satisfying chew and a soft texture that makes it a favorite among pizza enthusiasts. If you’re searching for a pizza that is not only delicious but also fun to make at home, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and create a Sicilian masterpiece that will impress your family and friends.

What Is New York Bakery-Style Sicilian Pizza?

New York Bakery-Style Sicilian Pizza is characterized by its unique preparation style and ingredients. This type of pizza originated in the bakeries of New York City, where it is baked in a rectangular pan. The dough is typically prepared with a high hydration level, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. The combination of olive oil, yeast, and flour contributes to its incredible flavor and puffiness, making it distinctively different from other pizza varieties.

What sets this pizza apart is not just the crust, but also its robust toppings. The rich tomato sauce is often seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil, providing a bright contrast to the melted cheese. When baked, the cheese becomes golden and crispy on the edges, making each bite a delightful experience. The Sicilian pizza has gained popularity not only in New York but also across the globe, making it a must-try dish for any pizza lover.

Why You’ll Love This

There are countless reasons why you will fall in love with New York Bakery-Style Sicilian Pizza. Its thick, airy crust is not only satisfying but also perfect for holding a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer just cheese or a medley of vegetables and meats, this pizza can accommodate your culinary desires.

Moreover, it’s perfect for gatherings. The square shape makes it easy to slice into individual pieces, ensuring that everyone can grab a slice as they socialize. The base of the pizza has enough structure to handle high toppings, giving you a pizza experience that is both hearty and comforting. Plus, preparing this dish is a wonderful way to bond with family or friends in the kitchen. You get to knead, stretch, and top the dough—feeling connected to the art of pizza making.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Flour: 4 cups (bread flour works best for structure and chewiness) – The backbone of the pizza, providing both strength and texture to the crust.
• Water: 1 ½ cups (warm water, about 110°F) – Hydration is key for creating that airy crust.
• Yeast: 2 teaspoons (active dry yeast) – Helps the dough rise, creating a light, fluffy interior.
• Olive oil: 1/4 cup – Adds flavor and helps create a beautiful, golden crust.
• Salt: 2 teaspoons – Essential for flavor and to control yeast activity.
• Tomato sauce: 2 cups (canned or fresh made) – Provides the saucy base that complements the crust.
• Cheese: 3 cups (mozzarella, shredded) – Melts beautifully and offers that classic pizza flavor.
• Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil – For seasoning the sauce and enhancing the flavor of the pizza.

How to Make

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active. Gradually add flour, salt, and olive oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic. This step is crucial as it develops the gluten, which contributes to the pizza’s texture.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This fermentation process will enhance the flavor.
4. Prepare the Sauce: While the dough is rising, prepare your tomato sauce. In a saucepan, combine the tomato sauce with oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors together.
5. Shape the Pizza: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a greased rectangular baking pan and stretch it to fit the pan. The dough should fill the corners and rise up the sides.
6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30 minutes. This final rise give the crust its signature fluffiness.
7. Add the Toppings: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Spread the sauce over the dough evenly, leaving a little bit bare along the edges for crust. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce.
8. Bake: Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should be bubbling, and the edges of the crust should turn golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Slice into squares and serve while warm. Enjoy the crispy cheese and airy crust with every delicious bite.

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetable Sicilian Pizza: Replace half of the mozzarella cheese with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms. These ingredients provide an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Roasting the vegetables beforehand can enhance their natural sweetness.

Meat Lover’s Sicilian Pizza: Add toppings like pepperoni, Italian sausage, or ham for a meaty punch. Layer these slices on top of the cheese before baking. Be mindful of the moisture these toppings bring; adjusting cooking times may be necessary to achieve a crispy crust.

Cheese and Herb Pizza: Opt for a blend of cheeses such as provolone, parmesan, or goat cheese along with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary. This variation offers a gourmet flair to your pizza. The combination of rich cheeses creates a deliciously melty texture.

BBQ Chicken Pizza: Substitute the tomato sauce with a mild BBQ sauce and top with cooked chicken, red onions, and cilantro. This gives a sweet, smoky flavor to the pizza that is refreshing and fun at backyard parties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few missteps can lead to an inferior Sicilian pizza. One common mistake is using cold water. Cold water can inhibit yeast activation, leading to a dense dough. Always use warm water around 110°F to ensure proper fermentation.

Another issue is over-kneading the dough. Too much kneading can lead to a tough crust instead of the desired light and airy texture. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Also, don’t rush the rising times. Allowing the dough to rise fully is essential for achieving that perfect fluffiness. Skipping the second rise or shortening it can result in a flat, unimpressive pizza.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, allow the Sicilian pizza to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents it from getting soggy and maintains its flavor. It can last up to 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

For long-term storage, freeze the pizza before baking. Once shaped, wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it cooks through.

When reheating, opt for an oven or toaster oven rather than a microwave. Microwaving can cause the crust to become chewy instead of crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? While you can use all-purpose flour, bread flour contains a higher protein content, which gives the crust its structure and chewiness. This is particularly beneficial for Sicilian pizza, which requires a robust base.

How can I make my crust crispy? To achieve a crispy crust, ensure your baking pan is hot before adding the dough. Preheating the pan or baking stone will help create steam and contribute to that desired crispiness. Additionally, be sure to use less moisture in your dough preparation.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After the first rise, store your dough in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it come to room temperature and rise again before shaping.

What toppings work best for Sicilian pizza? Sicilian pizza is versatile; you can top it with nearly anything you love. Traditional options like pepperoni, sausage, or a mix of vegetables are always popular. However, experimenting with gourmet toppings like feta or fresh herbs can elevate your pizza experience.

How do I know when my pizza is done? The pizza is ready when the edges are golden brown, the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, and the crust feels firm to the touch. You can also gently lift a corner of the pizza to check underneath for a deep golden-brown color.

Conclusion: Making New York Bakery-Style Sicilian Pizza at home is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that can become a cherished tradition in your kitchen. With its airy crust, rich toppings, and easy adaptation for various tastes, this pizza not only satisfies your cravings but also brings people together. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embrace the joy of creating this delicious dish. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Sicilian pizza is sure to earn rave reviews. Happy baking!