This Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza is a fun twist on a classic favorite. It’s got spicy pepperoni, creamy ricotta, and a drizzle of sweet honey to top it off!
I love how the honey balances the heat. It’s almost like a little dance of flavors in every bite. Perfect for a cozy night in or a fun gathering! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Whether you buy it or make it at home, the dough is crucial. I often use store-bought dough for convenience. If gluten-free, look for a pre-made gluten-free pizza dough.
Marinara Sauce: This adds great flavor. If you’re short on time, jarred marinara works well. For a twist, try pesto or a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is classic here. You could swap it with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess. If you don’t have it, cream cheese or cottage cheese can serve as a substitute, but expect a different texture.
Hot Honey: This is the game-changer! If you can’t find hot honey, mix regular honey with a bit of chili flakes for a similar effect. You could also use sriracha honey if you like it spicy.
How Do I Roll Out Pizza Dough Without It Sticking?
Rolling out pizza dough might seem tricky, but with a few tips, it’s simple! Start by dusting your surface with flour to prevent sticking.
- Take your dough out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes; this makes it easier to roll.
- Use a rolling pin and flatten the dough from the center outward, turning it after each pass to help keep it round.
- If it keeps springing back, let it rest for a few minutes—this relaxes the gluten.
- Always flour your pin and dough lightly to keep it from sticking.
How to Make Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pizza:
- 1 pre-made pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pizza can be whipped up in about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 12-15 minutes of baking. So, in roughly 35-40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious homemade pizza ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C), or check the instructions on your pizza dough if it differs. This helps ensure your pizza bakes perfectly crispy!
2. Prepare the Dough:
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape—round, square, or whatever you fancy! Then, carefully transfer it onto a pizza stone or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Add the Sauce:
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges for that lovely crust. Make sure to get a tasty layer all across the pizza!
4. Layer the Cheeses:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. Then, drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly across the top. This adds such a creamy texture!
5. Top with Pepperoni:
Lay down the pepperoni slices over the cheese as evenly as you can. You can add as many as your heart desires—who doesn’t love pepperoni, right?
6. Drizzle and Season:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the pizza for extra flavor, and sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to add a personal touch!
7. Bake the Pizza:
Pop the pizza into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is golden brown and the cheese is all melty and bubbly.
8. Add the Hot Honey and Garnish:
As soon as you pull the pizza from the oven, drizzle some hot honey over the top to your liking. Finally, sprinkle on some fresh basil leaves for that great finishing touch.
9. Slice and Serve:
Cut your delicious pizza into slices and get ready to enjoy every bite. It’s hot, cheesy, and bursting with flavor!
Enjoy your delightful Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza! 🍕
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver. Just follow the packaging instructions for the best results. If you prefer homemade dough, feel free to use your favorite recipe, but keep in mind that rising times may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just remember to blend it a bit if you’re using cream cheese to make it smoother. You can also try a vegan ricotta if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
How to Store Leftover Pizza?
To store leftover pizza, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best taste and texture.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level with the Hot Honey?
Yes! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use regular honey or reduce the amount of hot honey you drizzle on top. For extra heat, try adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking!
