If you are craving a pizza that perfectly combines the spicy kick of pepperoni with the creamy richness of ricotta, then the Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe is exactly what you need on your table tonight. This pizza is an explosion of bold flavors and contrasting textures, where the sweet heat of hot honey dances beautifully with the savory, melty cheese and crispy pepperoni. The fresh basil on top adds a bright, herbaceous note to each bite, making this pizza nothing short of an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering, this unique twist on a classic favorite is sure to impress and satisfy everyone around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe lies in its simplicity, with easy-to-find ingredients that combine to create extraordinary flavor. Every ingredient plays its part: from the soft, pillowy dough to the creamy ricotta and the sting of minced garlic, each element adds a layer of texture or taste that truly elevates this pizza.
- 1 lb pizza dough: Whether store-bought or homemade, this is your pizza’s tender and chewy foundation.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps the garlic release its savory aroma over the crust.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the crust with a mellow, fragrant flavor that complements the toppings.
- ½ cup pizza sauce: A vibrant, tangy base that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella: Melts to a gooey, bubbly layer essential for that classic pizza feel.
- ¼ cup whole milk ricotta cheese: Provides creamy pockets of indulgence that add depth and softness.
- 20–25 slices pepperoni: Brings bold, spicy, and slightly crispy texture with every bite.
- 1 tbsp hot honey, plus more for drizzling: A unique twist of sweetness with a spicy punch, key for balancing heat and flavor.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra fire to amplify the hot honey.
- Fresh basil (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh, herbal brightness.
How to Make Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven for Perfection
Start by heating your oven to a sizzling 500°F (260°C). If you’re lucky enough to have a pizza stone, slide it into the oven beforehand—this will give your crust a beautifully crisp bottom that tastes like it came straight from a professional pizzeria.
Step 2: Shape the Dough Into a 12-Inch Round
Roll or stretch your dough carefully until it forms a 12-inch circle. The light, airy texture of the dough is essential, so try not to tear it. Once shaped, lay the dough on parchment paper or a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking and make transferring easier.
Step 3: Brush Garlic-Infused Olive Oil and Spread Sauce
Brush the surface of your dough with olive oil, then sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the top. This step ensures the garlic’s flavor infuses right into the crust as it bakes. Next, spread the pizza sauce across the dough, leaving a half-inch border to maintain that classic pizza crust edge we all love.
Step 4: Layer Cheese and Pepperoni Like a Pro
Generously sprinkle your shredded mozzarella over the sauce, then drop dollops of creamy ricotta across the surface. Layer the slices of pepperoni next, distributing them evenly to guarantee every slice of pizza has that perfect combination of spicy meat and creamy cheese.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Pop your pizza into the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. What you’re aiming for is a golden crust with cheese that is melted and bubbling delightfully. The aroma at this stage is unbeatable—a true sign your pizza is nearly ready to devour.
Step 6: Drizzle Hot Honey and Garnish
Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle the hot honey over the pizza to add that distinct sweet heat signature of this recipe. If you like a little extra spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes, then finish off with fresh basil leaves for an herbaceous uplift. Slice and serve while the cheesy goodness is still warm and inviting.
How to Serve Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh basil leaves are not just pretty—they cut through the richness of the cheese and pepperoni, adding a refreshing note that brightens each bite. For an added layer of complexity, a small extra drizzle of hot honey on the slice right before eating brings out the perfect harmony of sweet and spicy flavors.
Side Dishes
This pizza pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette, which refreshes the palate. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or a light tomato soup can round out the table, balancing the richness of the pizza without overwhelming the taste buds.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider slicing the pizza into smaller, appetizer-sized pieces for a gathering or game night. You can also add a few dollops of ricotta right after baking to maintain its creamy texture or swap out basil for arugula for a peppery bite. Play around with presentation to wow your guests, because this Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the pizza covered well helps maintain the crust’s chewiness and prevents the toppings from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover pizza by wrapping slices tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. This keeps the flavors locked in and protects the textures, allowing you to enjoy your Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe long after the initial baking day.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust crisp. Instead, warm slices in a hot skillet over medium heat for a few minutes or use an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melty again. This method refreshes the pizza’s textures and flavors as if freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I make this pizza with a different type of dough?
Absolutely! While traditional pizza dough works best for a chewy, puffy crust, feel free to experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free dough alternatives. Just be mindful of baking times as these can vary.
What if I don’t have hot honey? Can I make my own?
Yes! You can make homemade hot honey by gently warming honey with chili flakes or a fresh chili pepper. This allows you to control the level of heat and sweetness perfectly tailored to your taste.
Is ricotta cheese necessary for this recipe?
While ricotta adds a lovely creamy texture and mild flavor that balances the spicy pepperoni, you can skip it or substitute with cream cheese or mascarpone if that’s what you have on hand.
How spicy is this pizza really?
The Heat level is moderate due to the hot honey and optional red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount of hot honey or skip the red pepper flakes to make it milder if you prefer.
Can I prepare this pizza in advance and bake later?
You can assemble the pizza and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say that the Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe is a game-changer for pizza lovers everywhere. The playful balance of spicy, sweet, savory, and creamy creates an unforgettable flavor profile that you’ll want again and again. So grab your ingredients, fire up your oven, and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of pure deliciousness. You’ll wonder why you ever ordered plain pizza in the first place!
Print
Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza combines a perfect homemade or store-bought pizza dough base with a tantalizing layer of olive oil and garlic, topped with zesty pizza sauce, melted mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and spicy-sweet pepperoni slices. Finished with a drizzle of hot honey and fresh basil, this pizza offers a delicious balance of savory, spicy, and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Pizza Base and Sauce
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup pizza sauce
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella
- ¼ cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 20–25 slices pepperoni
Finishing Touches
- 1 tbsp hot honey, plus more for drizzling
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to heat up along with the oven for an evenly crisp crust.
- Shape the Dough: Stretch or roll your pizza dough out into a 12-inch round. Place it onto a sheet of parchment paper or an oiled baking sheet to prepare for toppings.
- Add Garlic & Sauce: Brush the surface of the dough evenly with olive oil and scatter the minced garlic over it. Then, spread the pizza sauce evenly across the surface, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges.
- Add Cheese & Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top of the sauce. Add dollops of the ricotta cheese scattered across the pizza, and layer the pepperoni slices over the cheeses.
- Bake: Transfer the pizza to the oven (onto the stone or baking sheet) and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Bake until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
- Finish & Serve: Once baked, drizzle the pizza with the hot honey to add a sweet and spicy finish. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for extra heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice and enjoy your flavorful hot honey pepperoni ricotta pizza!
Notes
- Use a pizza stone if you want a crisper crust; preheat it thoroughly before placing the pizza on it.
- Adjust the amount of hot honey and red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the pizza dough with a gluten-free version.
- If fresh basil isn’t available, dried oregano or parsley can be used as a garnish.
- Let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping for easier handling and better texture.
