Description
These Heart-Shaped Pizzas are the perfect fun and romantic meal to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Whether you’re sharing a cozy dinner with your partner, family, or friends, these adorable pizzas bring a little extra love to the table. With a simple homemade pizza dough, your favorite toppings, and a heart-shaped twist, these individual-sized pizzas are as delicious as they are cute. Top them with fresh ingredients, and you’re ready to enjoy a tasty, personalized pizza experience!
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For the Pizza Sauce:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any preferred cheese)
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (or your choice of toppings like vegetables, mushrooms, olives, etc.)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pizza Dough:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and oregano. Add the yeast mixture and stir until the dough starts to form. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. - Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions for individual pizzas.
Roll out each portion into a circle or heart shape on a floured surface, using your hands or a rolling pin. If you’re making a heart shape, simply shape the dough into a round base and then pinch the top edges together to form the heart. - Add the Sauce and Toppings:
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each heart-shaped pizza, leaving a small border around the edges for the crust. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and add your choice of toppings (such as pepperoni, vegetables, or any other favorites). - Bake the Pizzas:
Place the pizzas on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted. - Serve:
Once the pizzas are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Optionally, drizzle a little olive oil on top and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately!
Notes
- Feel free to make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before using. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
- You can use store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time.
- Customize the toppings to fit your tastes or theme, adding colorful vegetables for a Valentine’s twist!
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including rising time)
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Valentine’s Day, Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian, American