Sicilian Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen features a thick, airy crust topped with robust tomato sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and a blend of savory Italian herbs, delivering a hearty and satisfying slice with a golden, crispy edge.
Equipments
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook attachment
- Large mixing bowl
- Bench scraper
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or Sicilian pizza pan
- Parchment paper
- Pizza peel (optional)
- Ladle or large spoon
- Cheese grater
- Oven
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups (440g) bread flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/3 cups (315ml) warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing)
- 1 cup (250ml) tomato sauce
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 slices Genoa salami
- 8 slices spicy capicola
- 8 slices prosciutto
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Use bread flour with higher protein content to achieve the thick, airy crust characteristic of Sicilian pizza. Warm water should be around 100-110degF to properly activate the instant yeast without killing it. Olive oil not only helps with dough elasticity but also prevents sticking when greasing your pan. The tomato sauce should have robust flavors to complement the blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian herbs like oregano and basil. Your homemade Sicilian Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen copycat will deliver the same hearty, crispy edges and savory toppings found in the original restaurant version.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Fit the stand mixer with the dough hook attachment.
- Add bread flour, sugar, instant yeast, and kosher salt to the mixing bowl.
- Mix dry ingredients briefly to combine.
- Pour in warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
- Mix on low speed until a dough forms.
- Increase speed and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Grease a large mixing bowl with olive oil.
- Transfer dough to greased bowl; cover and let rise for 1–2 hours, until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
- Lightly oil the Sicilian pizza pan or baking sheet.
- Punch down the dough and transfer to prepared pan.
- Stretch and press dough evenly to the edges.
- Cover pan; let dough rise 20–30 minutes.
- Spread tomato sauce evenly over dough using a ladle or large spoon.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Layer Genoa salami, spicy capicola, and prosciutto slices over cheese.
- Distribute black olives, roasted red peppers, and sliced red onion.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Bake in oven for 15–20 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven; let cool on cooling rack for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Slice and serve.
Substitution
Sicilian Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen copycat menu captures the classic thick and airy crust topped with bold tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and a mix of Italian herbs for a rich, crispy slice. If you don't have bread flour on hand, all-purpose flour can be substituted, but expect a slightly less chewy texture. You can swap Genoa salami, spicy capicola, or prosciutto with other cured Italian meats like pepperoni or soppressata, depending on availability. If you lack a Sicilian pizza pan, a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper will work just fine. Using a stand mixer with dough hook attachment simplifies kneading, but hand-kneading in a large mixing bowl is a practical alternative for achieving the desired dough consistency.
Tips
Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the instant yeast without killing it. While kneading the dough using a stand mixer with a dough hook, pay attention to the dough's texture--it should become smooth and elastic, indicating proper gluten development. When stretching the dough in the pan, avoid tearing by gently pressing and allowing it to rest if it resists stretching. Bake the pizza at a high temperature of 500degF to achieve a golden, crispy crust with bubbly cheese, and let it cool briefly on a rack to prevent sogginess before slicing.
Nutritions
Sicilian Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen provides a rich source of protein and calcium from mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, supporting bone health. The inclusion of Genoa salami, spicy capicola, and prosciutto adds savory flavor but increases saturated fat and sodium levels, which you should consume moderately. Olive oil and tomato sauce contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants like lycopene, promoting cardiovascular wellness. Vegetables such as black olives, roasted red peppers, and red onion offer fiber and vitamins, enhancing the pizza's overall nutritional profile.
Storage
Store your Sicilian pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to preserve freshness. Keep it refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. Reheat slices in a preheated oven or toaster oven to maintain the crust's crispiness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute bread flour with all-purpose flour for a slightly softer crust or incorporate whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Experiment with toppings like caramelized onions or sauteed mushrooms to add depth and earthiness to your Sicilian pizza. Try a longer cold fermentation of the dough in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours to develop more complex flavors and improve crust texture. Brushing the crust edges with garlic-infused olive oil before baking enhances aroma and adds a rich, savory finish.
Allergies
Sicilian Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen contains common allergens such as wheat (bread flour), dairy (mozzarella and Parmesan cheese), and cured meats which may contain preservatives triggering sensitivities. If you have allergies to gluten, lactose, or sulfites found in processed meats like Genoa salami, spicy capicola, and prosciutto, it's important to avoid this dish or seek alternatives. Always check ingredient labels carefully to ensure your safety when enjoying this hearty, flavorful pizza.
Why this recipe?
The Sicilian Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen is prized for its thick, airy crust that perfectly balances a crispy exterior with a soft, chewy interior. Topped with a rich tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and a blend of Italian herbs, this pizza delivers a burst of authentic Mediterranean flavors in every bite. Its generous toppings create a hearty meal, ideal for sharing with friends or family. You will appreciate making a copycat version because it allows you to recreate this beloved dish with fresh, personalized ingredients at home, capturing its unique taste and texture economically.