Description
This delightful Heart-Shaped Pizza recipe is perfect for a fun twist on traditional homemade pizza. Featuring a tender, chewy crust made from scratch, topped with savory tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and your choice of favorite toppings, it’s an inviting meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm water (110°F)
For the Toppings
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Toppings of choice (meats, veggies)
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water (110°F), mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until it doubles in size.
- Shape the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Transfer it to a piece of parchment paper. Shape the dough carefully into a heart shape, ensuring even thickness throughout and leaving a small border for the crust.
- Add toppings: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, staying within the border to form the crust. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top, then add your choice of meats and vegetables as desired. Optionally, sprinkle fresh basil leaves for added flavor and aroma.
- Bake the pizza: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the shaped pizza onto a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
- Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice and serve warm, enjoying the charming heart shape and delicious homemade flavors.
Notes
- Ensure the water used for the dough is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Use parchment paper to shape and easily transfer the pizza to the oven without losing its heart form.
- Customize your toppings according to dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
- Letting the dough rise fully is key to a light and fluffy crust.
- For a crispier crust, use a pizza stone heated in the oven before baking.
