This Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza is a tasty twist on a classic favorite! The spicy pepperoni pairs perfectly with creamy ricotta and a drizzle of sweet honey. Yum!
Who knew adding honey could make pizza even better? I love how the heat and sweet blend together. It’s a fun way to impress friends on pizza night or just treat myself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience or make your own if you enjoy baking. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pizza dough available in stores.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought is great in a pinch, but homemade sauce can really enhance the flavor. A simple blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs works wonders!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is a must for that gooey texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella is a good choice. Try mixing in some provolone for a flavor boost.
Ricotta Cheese: For a creamier feel, use whole milk ricotta. If you’re dairy-free, alternatives like almond or cashew cheese can work, although the texture may vary.
Hot Honey: If you can’t find hot honey, you can mix regular honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to get that sweet and spicy effect.
How Do I Create a Crispy Pizza Crust?
Getting the crust just right can be tricky, but here’s how to do it! Start by preheating your oven to the highest setting. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven as it heats. This creates a great sear for your crust!
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness. Thinner dough will be crispier.
- Transfer to the pan and ensure it doesn’t stick. Parchment paper helps with this!
- Don’t overload the toppings; too many can make the crust soggy. Stick to the recipe amounts for balance.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes but keep an eye on it. Every oven is different, and you want that golden finish!
How to Make Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 2-3 tablespoons hot honey (to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pizza will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in total, you should allow around 25-30 minutes from start to enjoy a warm slice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well. A hot stone will give you a crispy crust!
2. Prepare the Dough:
If you’re using homemade pizza dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s round and thin. Make sure it’s big enough to fit your pizza pan or stone. If you’re using store-bought dough, just stretch it out a little with your hands.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Transfer your rolled-out dough onto a pizza pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Now, spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, but leave a little border for the crust. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over the sauce.
4. Add the Cheeses and Toppings:
Take spoonfuls of ricotta cheese and dollop it around the pizza, creating creamy spots. Then, layer on the pepperoni slices evenly to make it look great and tasty!
5. Drizzle and Season:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top to add flavor. Season your pizza with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little extra kick!
6. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully slide the pizza into the oven (or onto the hot pizza stone). Bake it for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and delicious.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once it’s ready, take the pizza out and let it cool for a minute or two. Drizzle hot honey over the top according to your taste, allowing it to soak into the pizza for that perfect sweet-spicy balance. Top with fresh basil leaves just before serving!
Slice it up, and enjoy your homemade Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza! Yum!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mozzarella or ricotta on hand, feel free to swap in cheeses like provolone or cheddar. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and texture of the pizza. For a fun twist, try adding goat cheese for a tangy kick!
What If My Dough Is Sticking?
If your dough is sticking to the surface, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface or try using parchment paper as a base to roll it out. You can also try lightly oiling your rolling pin to prevent sticking, making it easier to shape your pizza.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, use less hot honey or opt for a regular honey instead. You can also skip the red pepper flakes altogether or reduce the amount of pepperoni for a less spicy pizza. Remember, you can always add more heat later, but it’s hard to take it away!
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them, place your slices on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave slices for a quicker option, but the oven will help keep the crust crispy!
