This Heart-Shaped Burrata and Spicy Pepperoni Pizza is a visually stunning and flavor-packed twist on the classic Neapolitan-style pie. With a crisp, airy crust shaped into a heart, rich tomato sauce, spicy cured pepperoni, and a creamy burrata center finished with a drizzle of hot honey, this pizza makes a bold statement both on the plate and the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pizza is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary expression of love and indulgence. The heart shape adds a romantic, festive touch, perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or special occasions. The combination of spicy, creamy, and sweet creates a harmonious flavor profile, while the artisanal crust delivers a chewy, blistered bite every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• All-purpose flour or semolina (for dusting)
• Tomato sauce or San Marzano crushed tomatoes
• Fresh burrata cheese
• Spicy pepperoni or soppressata slices
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Hot honey (or regular honey with chili flakes)
• Salt (to season sauce, if homemade)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Place a pizza stone or steel in the oven and preheat to 500°F (260°C) or as high as your oven allows, for at least 30 minutes.
2. Shape the dough: On a floured surface, stretch the dough into a heart shape using your hands or a rolling pin. Transfer to a piece of parchment for easy handling.
3. Assemble the pizza: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough. Add fresh basil and arrange the pepperoni evenly on top.
4. Bake the pizza: Transfer the pizza to the hot stone or steel and bake for 7–9 minutes, or until the crust is golden and blistered.
5. Add burrata: Remove the pizza from the oven and gently place the burrata in the center while the pizza is still hot.
6. Drizzle and serve: Finish with a generous drizzle of hot honey and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit pepperoni and add roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms.
• Sweet & savory: Add thinly sliced figs or pears for a sweet twist.
• Extra spicy: Use Calabrian chili oil or sliced fresh chili peppers.
• Mini pizzas: Create individual heart-shaped pizzas for guests.
• Pesto base: Swap the tomato sauce for a basil or sun-dried tomato pesto.

storage/reheating

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes or in a hot skillet to preserve the crust texture. Burrata should be added fresh if reheated, as reheating can alter its consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this pizza without a pizza stone?

Yes, use a heavy-duty baking sheet turned upside down and preheated in the oven.

What is burrata, and how is it different from mozzarella?

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a soft, creamy center that melts luxuriously over hot food.

Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?

Yes, and you can mix it with red pepper flakes to add heat if desired.

How do I shape the dough into a heart?

Use your fingers to gently press and shape the dough, pinching the bottom point and indenting the top center to form the heart.

What type of pepperoni works best?

Use spicy or thick-cut artisan pepperoni for bold flavor and beautiful curling edges when baked.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, pizza dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Is this pizza suitable for grilling?

Yes, cook directly on a hot grill for a lightly charred crust, being cautious with the delicate shape.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely, store-bought dough saves time and still delivers great results.

How do I prevent soggy pizza?

Use minimal sauce, preheat your baking surface thoroughly, and avoid overloading toppings.

Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free pizza dough base and follow the same preparation steps.

Conclusion

Heart-Shaped Burrata and Spicy Pepperoni Pizza is the ultimate blend of creativity and comfort food. With its eye-catching design and irresistible flavor combinations, it’s a perfect centerpiece for a romantic meal or a gourmet treat for yourself. Whether shared or savored solo, this pizza is love at first bite.

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