Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza

This Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza is my go-to for a bold upgrade on classic pizza nights. Sweet ribbons of hot honey meet salty pepperoni and creamy ricotta for a flavor combo that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

I found this recipe when I wanted something special for pizza night and now friends always request the hot honey topping whenever I host.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: One ball either store bought or homemade makes your base chewy or crisp depending on your oven
• Flour or cornmeal: A little for dusting stops sticking and helps you easily transfer the dough
• Tomato sauce or pizza sauce: Adds moisture richness and the bright tomato flavor you expect from pizza
• Mozzarella cheese: Shreds melt for stretchy pull apart gooeyness so use whole milk mozzarella for best melt
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy whole milk ricotta brings lightness and a rich contrast to spicy honey and meat
• Pepperoni: Sliced thin for those crisp edges and bold flavor classic to American style pies
• Hot honey: Sweeping spicy sweetness over the top makes every bite pop Try local honey and infuse with chili flakes if making your own
• Fresh basil: Optional but brightens with fragrance and a fresh pop of color
• Red pepper flakes: Optional extra heat for spice lovers

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Dough:

Set your oven as high as it will go ideally five hundred degrees Fahrenheit and preheat a pizza stone or heavy baking sheet for thirty minutes This step is key for that crisp blistered bottom Roll out your dough to about twelve inches on a surface dusted with flour or cornmeal so it slides easily

Assemble the Pizza:

On the dough spread an even layer of tomato sauce but keep a small border for the crust Sprinkle mozzarella on top letting it cover most of the sauce Arrange the pepperoni slices so every bite gets a little meat Gently dollop ricotta by the spoonfuls so you get creamy pockets as it bakes

Bake:

Carefully move the pizza to your hot stone or pan Bake for eight to twelve minutes until the crust is deeply golden and the cheese is bubbling and beautifully browned Keep an eye on it since oven strengths can vary

Add Hot Honey and Garnish:

While the pizza is still hot drizzle over hot honey for a dramatic glossy finish Add basil leaves for freshness and red pepper flakes if you want more heat Slice and serve while steaming

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My favorite part of this recipe is making a quick chili honey myself using a local wildflower honey The way the sweet heat seeps into creamy ricotta reminds me of summer nights with friends laughing around the table sharing stories and pizza slices

Storage Tips

Leftovers can go into an airtight container and chill for up to three days I like to use a skillet to reheat slices to bring back the crispy crust and preserve that gooey cheese

Ingredient Substitutions

No ricotta No problem Try whipped cream cheese or even goat cheese for a tangy finish You can swap the hot honey for regular honey plus a sprinkle of chili flakes or drizzle sriracha for a different kick

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pizza with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon juice to cut through the richness For parties I often slice it into squares for easy sharing with friends and family

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Cultural Context

Hot honey has roots in Italian American pizzerias but lately has taken off across the US It adds a playful twist to classic flavors bridging spicy and sweet and has made its way into home kitchens everywhere

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes hot honey work with pepperoni and ricotta?

The sweetness and mild heat from hot honey complement pepperoni’s bold, salty flavor and the creamy, mellow texture of ricotta, creating a balanced and irresistible bite.

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely. Store-bought dough saves time without sacrificing taste. Choose a fresh or refrigerated option for best results.

→ When should I add the hot honey?

Drizzle hot honey right after baking, while the pizza is still hot, allowing the flavors to meld into the toppings and crust for the best texture and taste.

→ Is there an alternative to ricotta cheese?

If you don't have ricotta, try using whipped cottage cheese or fresh mozzarella for a similarly creamy touch.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top after baking or add extra hot honey to elevate the heat to your preference.

→ What sides pair nicely with this pizza?

Fresh green salads, marinated olives, or a crisp Italian-style slaw make bright, refreshing sides alongside this pizza.