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Heart shaped pizza - Image 3

Heart Shaped Pizza

A fun and delicious homemade pizza shaped like a heart, perfect for a special Valentine's dinner or any fun family night. Features a simple, no-fail dough and customizable toppings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
  • 1 tsp instant yeast or active dry yeast
  • 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 cup warm water about 110°F
  • 1 tbsp olive oil plus more for bowl
  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese low-moisture part-skim works best
  • your favorite toppings pepperoni, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Pizza stone or large inverted baking sheet
  • Kitchen shears or sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Make the dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rest for 15 minutes while you prep toppings.
  2. Shape the heart. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside. On a piece of parchment paper, roll the rested dough into a rough circle about 12 inches across. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut a shallow 'V' shape out of the top center of the circle to form the top of the heart. Gently pull and shape the bottom into a point. Trust me, it doesn't have to be perfect—it will look charmingly homemade.
  3. Add sauce and toppings. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the shaped dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border for the crust. Sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella, then artfully arrange your chosen toppings. Tip from me: For a classic look, place pepperoni slices in an overlapping pattern. Avoid overloading the center, as this can make the crust soggy.
  4. Bake to perfection. Carefully slide the parchment paper with the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly spotted. Believe me, a hot oven is key for that perfect crisp crust.
  5. Serve and enjoy. Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool on the parchment for 2-3 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly for cleaner slicing. Transfer to a cutting board, slice, and serve immediately. Step back and admire your edible masterpiece!

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a crispier crust, pre-bake the shaped dough without toppings for 3 minutes before adding sauce and cheese.
• A common mistake is using too much sauce; a thin, even layer is best.
• Serve with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to cut the richness.
Food Safety:
• Ensure all toppings, especially meats, are fully cooked before serving.
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of baking.