Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza

This hot honey pepperoni ricotta pizza has become my weekend obsession, combining the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that transforms an ordinary pizza night into something extraordinary.

I first made this pizza when entertaining friends who claimed to be "pizza connoisseurs," and even they were speechless after the first bite. The combination of spicy pepperoni, creamy ricotta, and that drizzle of hot honey creates an addictive flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: provides the foundation fresh homemade dough elevates the experience but quality store bought works perfectly for busy nights
• Tomato sauce: creates a bright acidic base look for a sauce with minimal ingredients to let the toppings shine
• Mozzarella cheese: delivers that classic stretchy pizza experience use low moisture for best melting results
• Ricotta cheese: adds creamy pockets of coolness that balance the heat choose whole milk ricotta for richness
• Pepperoni: brings smoky spice and crispy edges opt for thicker cut slices that cup when cooked
• Hot honey: delivers the signature sweet heat element that makes this pizza special use store bought or make your own with honey and chili flakes
• Fresh basil: brightens the finished pizza with herbal notes choose small tender leaves for the best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Dough:

Roll your dough on a floured surface into a 12inch round while your oven preheats to its maximum temperature ideally 500°F with a pizza stone inside. The extremely hot oven mimics the conditions of professional pizza ovens creating that perfect char and texture on your crust. Make sure your dough is at room temperature for easier stretching and shaping.

Assemble the Pizza:

Apply a thin even layer of tomato sauce leaving that crucial half inch border around the edges. This border will rise and create your beautiful crust. Distribute mozzarella evenly but not too heavily as too much cheese can make your pizza soggy. Arrange pepperoni in a single layer making sure they slightly overlap since they will shrink during baking. Drop small spoonfuls of ricotta around the pizza making sure they're evenly distributed for consistent bites.

Bake:

Carefully transfer your assembled pizza to the blazing hot stone using a pizza peel dusted with cornmeal or flour for easy sliding. The pizza needs just 8 to 12 minutes in this intense heat watch carefully as the difference between perfectly charred and burnt happens quickly. Look for bubbling cheese with browned spots pepperoni that curls at the edges and a crust that has expanded and turned golden brown.

Add Hot Honey and Garnish:

The magic happens right after removing from the oven. Immediately drizzle that glorious hot honey in a zigzag pattern across the entire pizza allowing it to slightly melt into the hot surface. The contrast of sweet heat against the savory elements creates the signature flavor profile. Scatter fresh basil leaves which will slightly wilt from the residual heat releasing their aromatic oils. Slice while still hot and serve immediately for the best texture experience.

My favorite part of this recipe is watching people experience that first bite where all the elements come together. My brother who typically avoids spicy foods keeps requesting this pizza claiming the creamy ricotta perfectly tempers the heat from the honey while enhancing the overall experience.

Perfect Your Pizza Dough

Whether using homemade or store bought dough the key is proper handling. Let refrigerated dough rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before attempting to stretch it. This relaxes the gluten making it more pliable and less likely to spring back. Avoid using a rolling pin if possible as hand stretching preserves those wonderful air pockets that create a light airy crust. If making homemade dough consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the dough which helps achieve better browning in home ovens.

Hot Honey Variations

The hot honey drizzle is what makes this pizza special but you can easily customize it to your preference. For homemade hot honey simply warm half cup of honey with two tablespoons of red pepper flakes until fragrant then strain. For an extra dimension add a splash of apple cider vinegar which cuts through the sweetness. If you enjoy smoky flavors incorporate a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder into your honey mixture. The hot honey keeps well in the refrigerator for several weeks making it a versatile condiment for other dishes.

Serving Suggestions

This pizza works beautifully as the centerpiece of a casual gathering. Pair it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. For a complete Italian inspired meal start with marinated olives and end with affogato for dessert. This pizza also pairs wonderfully with light bodied red wines like Chianti or crisp Italian lagers that complement rather than compete with the complex flavors. For an interactive dinner party set up a topping bar allowing guests to customize their portion with extra hot honey ricotta or fresh herbs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

While best enjoyed fresh any leftover pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator rather than stacked with paper towels which can make it soggy. To reheat skip the microwave which produces a gummy texture. Instead place cold pizza in a dry skillet over medium low heat and cover for 2 minutes. This reactivates the crispy bottom while gently warming the toppings. Alternatively use an air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes for results nearly identical to fresh baked.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What is hot honey and how is it used here?

Hot honey is honey infused with chili peppers or red pepper flakes, giving it a sweet-heat flavor. It's drizzled over the pizza after baking to add a spicy-sweet kick that complements the savory toppings.

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough saves time and works well, just let it come to room temperature so it's easier to stretch and results in a tender, airy crust.

→ How should I apply the ricotta for best texture?

Dollop the ricotta in small spoonfuls evenly across the surface. As it bakes, the cheese stays creamy and blends with the mozzarella for a luscious bite.

→ Any tips for achieving a crispy crust?

Baking on a preheated pizza stone or cast iron pan at high heat gives a crisp, well-browned base. Brushing the crust edge with olive oil before baking adds extra crunch and color.

→ Can I make hot honey at home?

Yes! Gently warm honey with red pepper flakes or sliced chiles to taste, let it infuse, then strain if desired. Drizzle over the finished pizza for a personal touch.