Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza with Ricotta

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza with Ricotta

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza with Ricotta is a delicious twist on a classic favorite that’s bound to tantalize your taste buds! This marvelous dish combines the savory goodness of pepperoni with creamy dollops of ricotta cheese, accented perfectly by a drizzle of sweet hot honey. This recipe is not just easy to make but also offers a comforting familiarity, making it an irresistible choice for a quick weeknight dinner or social gatherings. With its mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures, you’ll soon find that this pizza is not just food; it’s an experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza with Ricotta quickly becomes a beloved recipe in any household. First off, it involves minimal ingredients, which means you can whip it up almost anytime without the need for a long grocery list. Preparing this pizza is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to keep the family satisfied without spending all evening in the kitchen. Most importantly, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser—delightful for pizza night, casual gatherings, or even a cozy movie marathon at home.

Ingredients

To create this heavenly dish, gather the following ingredients that will transport your taste buds to pizza paradise:

• ¾ cup warm water (105°F): This will bring the yeast to life, ensuring a bubbly crust.
• 1½ cups bread flour: For that perfect chewy texture.
• 1 packet (0.125 oz) active dry yeast: Essential for a rise that’s light and airy.
• ¾ teaspoon sugar: Sweetens the deal and activates the yeast.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: A key element to enhance the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a golden crust.
• ½ cup pizza sauce: The flavorful base to your pizza that ties all the ingredients together.
• 4 oz shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and oozes in every bite.
• 1 oz sliced pepperoni: For a touch of spice and classic pepperoni flavor.
• 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nice salty crunch to the overall taste.
• Pinch of sea salt: To accentuate the flavors even further.
• 3 oz whole milk ricotta cheese: Creamy and dreamy, it’s the star topping of our pizza.
• ½-1 teaspoon hot honey: Adds a delightfully sweet and spicy kick.
• 2-3 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped: These aromatic herbs bring freshness to every bite.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Activate the Yeast:
Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it brings life to your pizza dough.

2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt. Create a well in the center, then pour in the yeast mixture and the olive oil. Mix everything into a shaggy dough using a wooden spoon or your hands.

3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the shaggy dough onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step will develop the gluten, giving your pizza a perfect chewy texture.

4. Let It Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it has doubled in size. This magical moment allows the dough to become fluffy and airy.

5. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to preheat at 475°F (245°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that bubbling, golden crust.

6. Shape the Dough:
After the dough has risen, turn it onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 12 inches in diameter. Don’t stress about perfection; rustic shapes often give pizzas their charm.

7. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top and layer on the sliced pepperoni gracefully.

8. Add Ricotta:
Now comes the fun part! Drop dollops of creamy ricotta cheese around the pizza. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan and a pinch of sea salt over everything.

9. Bake:
Transfer your pizza onto a baking sheet or a pizza stone. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

10. Drizzle and Serve:
Once out of the oven, drizzle hot honey over the pizza for that perfect sweet-spicy balance. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh basil, allowing it to cool for 2-3 minutes before slicing.

Tips & Tricks

For an enhanced flavor, consider adding some red pepper flakes for an extra kick alongside the hot honey. Keep a close eye on the pizza while it’s baking, as oven temperatures can vary. If you prefer a crispier crust, you might bake for an additional minute or two. Lastly, feel free to customize the toppings according to your preference—mushrooms, bell peppers, or even olives can create a fantastic spin on this dish!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. For drinks, consider serving it with refreshing iced teas, or an exciting sparkling water infused with lemon or mint. The vibrant flavors create a fantastic contrast to the sweetness in the hot honey. It’s also a great addition to game day menus or casual get-togethers—everyone loves pizza!

Nutritional Information

This delightful pizza weighs in at approximately 320 calories per serving, depending on slice size and additional toppings. Each slice typically contains protein from cheese, carbohydrates from the bread flour, and healthy fats from the olive oil. Keep in mind that moderation is key, and rounding out your meal with veggies or fresh salads can create a balanced approach to enjoying this pizza.

Storing Tips & Variations

If you wind up with leftover pizza, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply put it in the oven for 5-10 minutes to retain crispness. You can freeze unbaked pizza dough for up to one month if you want to make it ahead of time! Variations of this recipe might include switching up the cheeses or using a gluten-free flour alternative if necessary. An adventurous option might be to experiment with different types of honey or spicy drizzle to create your original hot honey pizza masterpiece.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza with Ricotta is a delightful dish that can quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and oh-so-satisfying with every bite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, and I’m confident you and your loved ones will savor the unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. Don’t forget to share your pizza-making experience in the comments!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought dough is a fantastic way to save time while still enjoying a delicious pizza at home.

2. What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Low-moisture mozzarella provides a great melt and stretch, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor profile!

3. How can I make my pizza spicier?
Incorporate spicy pepperoni or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking to add some heat!

4. Is it possible to make this pizza vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan cheese substitutes and skip the ricotta to make it fully plant-based. There are numerous options available in many grocery stores today!

5. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough in advance, let it rise, and then refrigerate it for a day or two. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.