This Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza delivers the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory. Crispy pepperoni, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella come together on a golden crust, finished with a drizzle of hot honey and fresh basil for a gourmet-style pizza at home.
Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
1 lb pizza dough, room temperature
4 oz pepperoni slices
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn into pieces
3 tablespoons hot honey
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup pizza sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating. Oil a large baking sheet if not using a stone.
On a floured surface, stretch pizza dough into a 12-14 inch circle. Transfer to prepared baking sheet or pizza peel if using a stone.
Brush crust edges with olive oil. Spread pizza sauce evenly, leaving a 1-inch border. Add torn mozzarella pieces and arrange pepperoni slices on top.
Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly across the pizza, creating beautiful white dollops between the pepperoni slices.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes.
Drizzle hot honey evenly over the pizza, tear fresh basil leaves on top, slice, and serve immediately while hot.
Health Benefits
- Good protein source: Mozzarella, ricotta, and pepperoni contribute protein for satiety.
- Calcium-rich: Cheese supports bone health with calcium and phosphorus.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil and dairy fats help with nutrient absorption.
- Antioxidants: Basil adds natural antioxidants and freshness.
- Mood-boosting spice: Hot honey and pepperoni spices can help stimulate metabolism and appetite satisfaction.
