Description
These Heart-Shaped Mini Pizzas are perfect for a fun and festive meal that’s quick to prepare. With a homemade yeast dough and your favorite toppings, you’ll enjoy deliciously cheesy, personalized pizzas shaped into hearts, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices
- Any additional toppings: bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, pineapple (optional)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast, sugar, and warm water. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Shape the Pizzas: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a heart shape on a lightly floured surface.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Spread a spoonful of sauce evenly onto each heart-shaped dough. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously, then add pepperoni slices and any other desired toppings.
- Bake the Mini Pizzas: Place the heart-shaped pizzas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a pizza stone. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven carefully, let them cool for a couple of minutes, then serve warm. These mini pizzas are perfect for parties or a charming homemade meal.
Notes
- You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if desired, but adjust liquid amounts accordingly.
- Allow dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure proper yeast activation.
- Feel free to customize toppings according to your preference or dietary needs.
- For a crispier crust, bake pizzas on a preheated pizza stone or steel.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven for best results.
