Heart shaped pizza is a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite. Imagine a warm, golden crust shaped like a big heart, topped with gooey melted cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and all your favorite toppings. It’s a great way to make pizza night a little extra special and show some love with every bite.
I love making heart shaped pizza because it turns a simple meal into a celebration. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner with someone special or a fun family night, the shape always brings a smile to everyone’s face. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever toppings you love most, so it’s always just right.
One of my favorite ways to serve this pizza is with a fresh side salad and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s not just tasty, but also makes the whole meal feel a little more put-together. If you’re looking to make someone feel appreciated or just want to enjoy a cute, tasty meal yourself, this heart shaped pizza is the perfect choice.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active dry yeast: This is what makes the dough rise and get light. If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast works well, too. Just reduce the water slightly when using instant yeast.
Flour: All-purpose flour creates a soft crust that’s easy to shape. If you want chewier crust, try bread flour instead. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend made for baking.
Olive oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the dough stay soft. You can substitute with any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but olive oil is my favorite for that classic taste.
Pepperoni: The star topping! Using heart-shaped pepperoni pieces makes this pizza extra cute. If you don’t have a cookie cutter, you can use a knife to carefully cut the slices or use other toppings like sliced veggies shaped by hand.
How Do You Shape a Perfect Heart-Shaped Pizza Dough?
Creating that heart shape might seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think with a few simple steps:
- After your dough has risen, lightly flour your surface to prevent sticking.
- Roll the dough into a rough circle first for even thickness.
- Gently pinch the top center to form the dip of the heart.
- Pull out two rounded corners for the lobes of the heart.
- Pinch the lower center to form the point of the heart shape.
- Don’t worry about being perfect—a rustic heart shape gives it charm!
- Transfer carefully using a floured peel or baking sheet dusted with cornmeal to avoid sticking.
Practice makes perfect here, and shaping the dough this way helps it bake evenly with a beautiful look.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for mixing and letting your dough rise without making a mess.
- Rolling pin – helps you flatten the dough evenly into a heart shape.
- Heart-shaped cookie cutter – great for cutting fun heart shapes out of your pepperoni or other toppings.
- Baking sheet or pizza stone – a baking sheet is easy to use, but a pizza stone gives you a crispier crust.
- Pizza peel or flat spatula – makes moving your pizza in and out of the oven easier without losing its shape.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for sliced mushrooms and bell peppers for a fresh veggie pizza, perfect for a lighter meal.
- Add cooked sausage or bacon for extra meaty flavor and a hearty bite.
- Use fresh basil leaves and sliced tomatoes with mozzarella for a classic Margherita twist.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes and garlic powder before baking to add a little spicy kick and extra aroma.
How to Make Heart Shaped Pepperoni Pizza?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (100-110°F/37-43°C)
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
For The Topping:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 15-20 slices pepperoni
- Heart-shaped cookie cutter (small size for pepperoni slices)
- Optional: dried oregano or chili flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 1 hour 30 minutes total, including 10-15 minutes prep, 1 hour rising time for the dough, and baking time of 12-15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Dough:
First, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it gets foamy. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Then add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir to combine. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and stretchy. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
2. Shaping and Topping the Pizza:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If you have a pizza stone, put it in the oven to heat up. Gently punch down the dough and roll it on a floured surface into a rough heart shape about 12-14 inches wide. Transfer it to a baking sheet or floured pizza peel. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small edge. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Use the heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut the pepperoni into small hearts and arrange them evenly on the pizza.
3. Baking and Serving:
Bake your pizza in the hot oven for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Take it out, sprinkle with oregano or chili flakes if you like, and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice and enjoy your delicious heart-shaped pepperoni pizza!
Can I Use Frozen Dough for This Pizza?
Yes! If using frozen dough, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to work with.
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
You can use any favorite toppings like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, cooked sausage, or even veggies shaped with a knife if you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter. Get creative and customize it to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Pizza?
Store leftovers in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep the crust crispy.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it refrigerated in a covered bowl. Just take it out about an hour before shaping so it warms up and rises a little.
