Valentine's Heart-Shaped Pizza

Name: Valentine's Heart-Shaped Pizza
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) dry yeast; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 cup pizza sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices; Fresh basil leaves; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

I absolutely adore making this Valentine's Heart-Shaped Pizza to surprise my loved ones! It’s a delightful twist on the classic pizza, and creating it together is a fun bonding experience. The heart shape is perfect for the occasion, and the fresh ingredients create a delicious flavor combination that everyone enjoys. Preparing this pizza is easy, and my secret is using fresh herbs and high-quality cheese for that extra special touch. Whether it’s for a romantic dinner or a family gathering, this pizza never fails to impress!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:49:31.411Z

I love making this Valentine's Heart-Shaped Pizza for special occasions, as it brings an element of fun to the traditional pizza experience. The heart shape not only looks adorable but also makes it an ideal dish for sharing with someone special. Using fresh dough allows for a light and crispy crust that elevates the entire meal.

One time, I experimented by adding some roasted garlic and fresh basil into the sauce, which took the flavor to a new level! I always recommend balancing the cheese and toppings to ensure that every bite is deliciously satisfying. This pizza is sure to be a hit with anyone you serve it to!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Adorable heart-shaped design perfect for romantic dinners
Customizable toppings to please any palate
Made from fresh, high-quality ingredients for unbeatable flavor

      

Heart-Shaped Dough Technique

Shaping the dough into a heart is a creative yet straightforward task. After allowing it to rise for 15 minutes, make sure the work surface is well-floured to prevent sticking. When flattening, aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch to ensure even baking. Pay special attention to pinching the top to create the point of the heart; this detail enhances the visual appeal and makes your pizza unmistakably love-themed.

As you shape the dough, consider using a rolling pin for a smoother finish. You can also use cookie cutters or a knife to refine the heart's shape if desired. If the dough shrinks back as you shape it, let it rest for a minute before trying again; this will help relax the gluten and make shaping easier.

Ingredient Quality Matters

Using high-quality mozzarella is crucial for achieving that perfect melt and stretch. Opt for fresh mozzarella if you can, as it provides a creamier texture compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. If you wish to make this pizza dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well, or skip the cheese entirely and use more toppings like veggies or prosciutto for a gourmet touch.

The use of fresh basil not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also infuses the pizza with a fragrant aroma. Adding the basil leaves right before baking preserves their color and flavor, avoiding bitterness that can occur from overcooking. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried herbs can substitute, but use less than a teaspoon, as their flavors are more concentrated.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious heart-shaped pizza!

For the Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar

For the Topping

1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pepperoni slices
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil for drizzling

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your heart-shaped pizza.

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt.

Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour, kneading until smooth. Cover and let rise for 15 minutes.

Shape the Dough

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Once the dough has risen, shape it into a heart by flattening it on a floured surface. Use your fingers to pinch the top and form the point of the heart.

Add Toppings

Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and add pepperoni slices. Top with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake the Pizza

Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.

Slice and Serve

Once baked, let the pizza cool for a minute. Slice and serve to your loved one, enjoying the delightful flavor together!

Enjoy your delicious heart-shaped pizza with your favorite beverage!

Pro Tips

For added flair, serve with a side of garlic dipping sauce for an irresistible combination!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover pizza, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can place the slices between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag for longer storage, lasting up to three months. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat the pizza for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy crust, rather than using the microwave, which can make the crust chewy.

For a quick repurpose, chop leftover pizza into smaller pieces and add them to a salad or pasta dish. This not only minimizes waste but also adds a unique flavor profile to your entrées, especially if paired with a fresh vinaigrette to balance out the richness.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your heart-shaped pizza with various toppings to cater to different tastes. Swap pepperoni for vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or red onions for a vegetarian option. You can also explore other cheeses like goat cheese or gouda for a different flavor experience. Just remember to maintain the balance between flavors to ensure each bite is delicious.

If you want to add a bit of heat, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes or adding jalapeño slices before baking. For a gourmet twist, drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished pizza for a sweet-and-savory combination. Experimenting with toppings not only personalizes the dish but can also impress your dinner guests with your creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought dough can save time and effort while still giving you a delicious result.

→ What toppings can I add?

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings such as veggies, different meats, or specialty cheeses!

→ How can I store leftover pizza?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids will love helping to decorate their heart-shaped pizzas, making it a fun family activity.