Griffin Baker – “Secret Pizza” Classic Pepperoni Pie
California Dream Pies Competition – 2025
Griffin Baker of Secret Pizza brought classic flavor and precision to the California Pizza Challenge’s Traditional Division with a pie that balanced simplicity and soul. Known for his meticulous technique and no-shortcuts approach, Baker turned the familiar pepperoni pizza into a masterclass in execution. Each element—sauce, cheese, and topping—was measured with intent, creating harmony between nostalgia and craftsmanship.
Dough
(Adapted from Griffin’s home dough formula)
- 1,100g high-protein bread/baking flour
- 770g cold water (70%)
- 5.5g instant yeast (0.5%)
- 27.5g salt (2.5%)
- 14.3g oil (1.3%)
Combine ingredients and mix until fully hydrated. Rest for 20 minutes, then knead until smooth and elastic. Cold ferment 48–72 hours for flavor depth and structure. Bring to room temperature before baking.
Build
- 6 oz ladle of Stanislaus Alta Cucina tomato sauce
- A pinch of oregano
- A heavy handful of grated Pecorino Romano
- Two handfuls of shredded whole milk low-moisture mozzarella
- A light handful of Ezzo pepperoni
Spread sauce evenly across the dough, leaving a small edge. Sprinkle oregano, then layer Pecorino Romano. Add mozzarella generously and finish with Ezzo pepperoni slices spaced for even coverage.
Bake
- Deck oven: 525°F for 6–7 minutes, until cheese bubbles and crust blisters golden brown.
Allow to rest one minute before slicing. The result is a perfectly balanced pie—crispy edge, rich sauce, and that unmistakable Ezzo pepperoni curl that signals pizza perfection.
