Introduction

If you’re craving a pizza that perfectly balances sweet heat and cheesy comfort, this Hot Honey Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza is a must-try. With spicy pepperoni, creamy ricotta, and a drizzle of hot honey, it’s a flavor-packed treat that livens up any pizza night.

A round pizza with a golden-brown crust that has small charred spots around the edges, topped with a layer of melted white cheese and bright red tomato sauce visible near the crust. On top, there are evenly spread pepperoni slices with a glossy, oily texture, dollops of white ricotta cheese scattered across, and green drizzles of basil pesto. Fresh green basil leaves are placed on some slices, adding a fresh touch. The pizza is cut into six slices and is placed on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Flour or cornmeal, for dusting
½ cup tomato sauce or pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup whole milk ricotta cheese, dolloped
20–25 slices pepperoni
1–2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Red pepper flakes, for extra heat (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) or as hot as it will go. Place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside to preheat for at least 30 minutes. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch round.
Step 2: Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese, then dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese around the pizza.
Step 3: Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated stone or baking sheet. Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
Step 4: Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately drizzle hot honey over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like extra heat. Slice and serve right away.

Tips & Variations

Let your dough rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before stretching to make it easier to shape.
Use a pizza stone or cast iron pan preheated in the oven for a crispier crust.
Brush the pizza crust with olive oil before baking for a golden, crisp edge.
Try using bread flour or “00” flour if making your own dough to improve texture.
Adjust the amount of hot honey and red pepper flakes to customize the level of sweetness and spice.

Storage

Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot oven or on a skillet to help keep the crust crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.

How to Serve

A pizza with a thick golden-brown crust, slightly charred on the edges, is cut into six slices and placed on a light wooden board over a white marbled surface. The base layer is bright red tomato sauce, topped by melted mozzarella cheese that covers the entire pizza in a creamy, slightly browned texture. On top of the cheese, round slices of shiny, reddish pepperoni are evenly spread, with dollops of white ricotta cheese scattered around. Green pesto sauce is drizzled across the pizza in small, uneven patches, and several fresh green basil leaves are placed on top as garnish. The slices look thick and juicy with a mix of smooth, creamy, and crispy textures visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?

Absolutely. Homemade dough works great and allows you to tailor the ingredients and texture to your liking. Just make sure to let it rest before stretching.

What if I don’t have hot honey?

You can make your own by gently warming honey with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. Alternatively, use regular honey and add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes after baking for that spicy kick.