Hot Honey Pizza Recipe

If you’re craving a pizza that delivers an irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and savory all in one bite, this Hot Honey Pizza Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It beautifully balances the creaminess of ricotta and mozzarella, the salty depth of prosciutto and coppa, and the subtle crunch of thinly sliced red onions, all elevated by a generous drizzle of hot honey. This is not just a pizza; it’s a flavor adventure that will have you coming back for more, whether for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making the Hot Honey Pizza Recipe, the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture. These essentials bring creaminess, spice, and that perfect salty-sweet touch that defines the dish.

• Pizza dough: The heart of your pizza, providing the perfect chewy and crispy base especially if you go for a Neapolitan style.
• Pizza sauce (¼ cup): Adds a tangy richness that complements the cheeses and cured meats.
• Mozzarella cheese (¼ cup): Offers creamy meltiness that provides that classic pizza feel; fresh or low-moisture mozzarella works well.
• Ricotta cheese (¼ cup): Brings a luscious softness and delicate flavor that balances the stronger tastes.
• Prosciutto (2 pieces, shredded): Adds a savory, slightly sweet saltiness that heightens the overall depth.
• Coppa (4 pieces): Or choose your favorite cured meat; this delivers a rich, spiced punch.
• Red onion (12 slivers, thinly sliced): For a subtle crunch and sharp bite that cuts through the richness.
• Hot honey (2 tablespoons): The signature ingredient that brings the perfect sweet heat lick across every slice.
• Finishing salt (¼ teaspoon, optional): To brighten flavors and add that extra savory sparkle.

How to Make Hot Honey Pizza Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

To get that irresistibly crisp crust with a perfect golden char, your oven is key. Using a pizza stone preheated to around 700 degrees in an outdoor pizza oven works beautifully, especially with Neapolitan dough. If you’re using a conventional kitchen oven, aim for the highest temperature possible and preheat a pizza stone or steel for at least 45 minutes to mimic those high-heat conditions.

Step 2: Assemble Your Pizza

Lightly dust a wooden pizza peel with flour to prevent sticking. Carefully stretch your dough to about 11 to 13 inches in diameter, keeping it slightly thinner in the center but with a puffier edge. Spread your pizza sauce evenly over the base, then scatter the mozzarella and dollops of ricotta. Layer the shredded prosciutto, coppa slices, and the thinly sliced red onions to build complex flavor and texture. This assembly creates a balance between creamy, savory, and crunchy elements.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Check that your pizza slides smoothly on the peel; if not, add a touch more flour underneath. Transfer the pizza into the hot oven, placing it on the preheated stone. To ensure even cooking, gently turn the pizza every 15 seconds or when you notice the crust bubbling near the flame. The entire bake should take around two minutes to achieve a blistered, chewy crust with beautifully melted toppings.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once the pizza is out of the oven, it’s time to bring out the magic. Drizzle the hot honey generously over the entire pie, letting its sweet heat glaze the meats and cheeses. Finish with a pinch of finishing salt if you like for an elevated flavor pop. Slice with a pizza cutter and get ready for your taste buds to do a happy dance.

How to Serve Hot Honey Pizza Recipe

Garnishes

For a touch of freshness and vibrancy, consider scattering some fresh basil leaves or a few arugula sprigs right after baking. This adds a peppery bite and a beautiful green contrast against the rich toppings. A light drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the aroma and flavor.

Side Dishes

Keep your sides simple to let the star shine! A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or a bowl of marinated olives pairs perfectly, offering a refreshing counterpoint. If you want something heartier, roasted vegetables or a light pasta tossed with garlic and olive oil complement the pizza well without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Hot Honey Pizza Recipe on a rustic wooden board to emphasize its artisanal feel. Cut it into smaller, appetizer-sized squares for a party, or pair slices with a flight of craft beers or sparkling wines to elevate your gathering. For a fun twist, add extra hot honey on the side so everyone can adjust the sweetness and spice to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hot Honey Pizza Recipe tastes fantastic the next day. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the crust from drying out and preserves the balance of flavors so you can enjoy it easily the following day.

Freezing

If you want to save some pizza for later, freeze whole or individual slices on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and maintains the best quality. When ready to eat, thaw slices briefly before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Hot Honey Pizza Recipe in a hot skillet or oven at 375 degrees to restore the crispness of the crust and melty cheese. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the crust soggy. A quick reheat brings back that just-baked magic in minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?

Absolutely! Using regular honey will give you the sweetness without the spicy kick. If you want to mimic the heat, simply mix regular honey with a touch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes before drizzling.

What if I don’t have coppa or prosciutto?

No worries! You can substitute with other cured meats like salami, soppressata, or even spicy chorizo. Each will add its own unique flavor, making your Hot Honey Pizza Recipe just as delicious.

Is it possible to bake this pizza in a regular home oven?

Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to its highest setting (usually 500°F or 550°F) and use a pizza stone or steel for best results. It won’t quite match the outdoor pizza oven’s intense heat, but careful attention to cooking times and turning the pizza will yield a fantastic pie.

Can I make this pizza vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the prosciutto and coppa, and consider adding toppings like roasted peppers, mushrooms, or artichokes. The hot honey still provides a beautiful depth of flavor, making the vegetarian version just as satisfying.

How spicy is the hot honey feeling?

Hot honey offers a gentle warmth that builds as you savor the pizza. It’s never overpowering but adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness and savory ingredients, creating a perfect balance in every bite.

Final Thoughts

This Hot Honey Pizza Recipe is such a joyful culinary discovery that brings together bold flavors in a simple, approachable way. Every slice warms the soul with its blend of creamy cheeses, savory meats, zesty onions, and that hypnotic hot honey drizzle. Don’t wait to try this at home—you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again, sharing it with friends and family who will thank you for the delicious introduction.

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