This Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza is a fun mix of spicy and sweet! With gooey ricotta, zesty pepperoni, and a drizzle of hot honey, it’s a treat for your taste buds.
Honestly, who knew a pizza could be so exciting? I love how the hot honey makes everything taste special—it’s like a little party in each bite! 🍕🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought dough for convenience, but homemade dough adds a personal touch. If time is short, ready-made dough from a local pizzeria can also taste fantastic.
Pizza Sauce: A good quality tomato sauce is key, but store-bought marinara works too. If you’re a fan of spice, look for a spiced pizza sauce to give it an extra kick.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can also use fresh mozzarella for a lighter feel. If you prefer vegan options, look for plant-based mozzarella substitutes.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess, but if you’re out, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. You can even blend silken tofu for a dairy-free alternative that mimics the texture.
Hot Honey: This is the star! If you can’t find it, you can mix honey with a bit of cayenne pepper for a similar effect. Adjust the heat according to your taste.
How Do I Get My Pizza Dough Roll-out Just Right?
Rolling out pizza dough can be tricky! Start by sprinkling flour on your work surface to prevent sticking. Use a rolling pin for an even thickness, but make sure to keep the edges slightly thicker for a great crust.
- Begin at the center and roll outwards, rotating the dough every so often for a round shape.
- If the dough resists, let it rest for a few minutes to relax the gluten.
- If you prefer a thicker crust, roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick; for a thin crust, aim for a quarter-inch.
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
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 2-3 tablespoons hot honey (adjust to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pizza takes about 20 minutes of preparation and around 15 minutes to bake. So you’ll be enjoying your homemade pizza in approximately 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat up as well. This will give your crust that perfect crispy texture.
2. Preparing the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your preferred thickness. Transfer it to a pizza peel or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the parchment paper is in place, as it will help you bake the pizza without sticking!
3. Adding the Sauce:
Next, spread the pizza sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This will help keep the pizza nice and neat.
4. Layering the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. It’s the star of the show, so don’t be shy!
5. Adding Ricotta:
Now, take dollops of ricotta cheese and spoon them across the top of the pizza. Distribute it evenly, so every bite has a little creaminess.
6. Arranging the Pepperoni:
Next, arrange the sliced pepperoni on top of the cheeses. You can place it as evenly or as chaotically as you like—it’ll all taste amazing!
7. Seasoning:
If you want, sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper on top to enhance the flavors. Just a pinch will do!
8. Baking the Pizza:
Carefully transfer the pizza to your preheated oven (or onto the pizza stone) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and delicious!
9. Drizzling Hot Honey:
Once your pizza is out of the oven, drizzle hot honey over the top. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like your pizza.
10. Garnishing:
Finish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. This adds a fresh touch that complements the flavors perfectly.
11. Serving:
Slice your pizza into pieces and serve hot. Enjoy the delicious blend of spicy and sweet flavors in every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta are fantastic for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses. Try using provolone or fontina for added flavor, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just keep the overall cheese quantity similar to ensure the pizza bakes properly.
What If I Don’t Have Hot Honey?
No problem! You can make your own by mixing regular honey with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Start with a tablespoon of honey and adjust until you reach your desired heat level. This way, you can customize it to your taste!
Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the pizza ahead of time! Assemble it without baking, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven for best results.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This will help keep the crust crispy!
