Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella

Name: Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella
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) active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup pizza sauce; Fresh basil leaves; Oregano, to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Favorites

I love making this Heart-Shaped Pizza with Mozzarella for special occasions. The shape alone brings smiles to everyone’s face, and the combination of crispy crust with gooey mozzarella is simply irresistible. As I knead the dough, it feels so satisfying to create a personal touch to pizza night. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food while adding a twist that's perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. Whether it’s for Valentine's Day or just a fun surprise, this pizza brings warmth and joy to the table.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:13:46.158Z

When I first made this heart-shaped pizza, I was completely taken by surprise at how fun it was. Shaping the dough into a heart added a unique touch that made the night feel special. I used fresh mozzarella which melts beautifully, creating a deliciously gooey texture. The secret is letting the dough rest for a bit, which makes it easier to shape while still achieving that lovely crust.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different toppings, but my go-to remains simple basil and a sprinkle of oregano. The fresh ingredients bring out the most flavor and elevate this pizza. Plus, the heart shape means it’s perfect for sharing—just the way love should be!

        Why You'll Love This Pizza
        Fun, festive heart shape that's perfect for sharing
Gooey, melted mozzarella that stretches with each bite
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings

      

Creating the Perfect Dough

The key to a great heart-shaped pizza starts with the dough. The combination of all-purpose flour and active dry yeast gives the pizza its chewy texture and structure. Kneading for five minutes activates the gluten, making the crust chewy yet tender. If you find your dough is too tacky, sprinkle a little more flour while kneading; it should feel smooth and elastic when ready. Remember to let the dough rest for at least 10 minutes; this will make it easier to shape into a heart later on.

Using warm water to activate the yeast is crucial. Aim for a temperature around 110°F (43°C) — too hot and you risk killing the yeast; too cold and it won’t activate properly. If you're not sure about your water temperature, test it with your finger. You should feel warmth but not heat. This precise step ensures that the yeast blooms effectively, contributing to a light and airy crust when baked.

Perfecting Your Shape

Shaping the pizza into a heart can be a fun challenge! Start by rolling out your dough gently on a floured surface. To create distinctive heart edges, shape it with your hands rather than a rolling pin, which can compress the dough. Pinching the top to create the point and spreading the base wide will help achieve that signature heart shape. Remember, practice makes perfect — even if your first attempts aren’t perfect, the flavor will remain delicious!

If you’re looking for variations, you can try creating mini heart-shaped pizzas. Simply divide the dough into smaller portions before rolling it out. This option is ideal for serving guests since each person can customize their toppings, making it a fun and interactive dining experience.

Creative Topping Ideas

While gooey mozzarella is a must, this pizza is incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Consider adding sliced pepperoni, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a gourmet touch. If you're vegetarian, artichoke hearts or olives can provide great flavor contrasts. Remember to balance the toppings; too many can make the pizza soggy. A good rule of thumb is to keep it simple and allow the crust and sauce to shine through.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this recipe. Gluten-free pizza dough is widely available and can be substituted for the traditional all-purpose flour. If you're vegan, opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives, and you can still enjoy that desired stretchy, melty texture. The flexibility of this pizza makes it suitable for everyone at your table!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your heart-shaped pizza:

Pizza Dough

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

Toppings

1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup pizza sauce
Fresh basil leaves
Oregano, to taste

Make sure you have all the ingredients ready before you start.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your heart-shaped pizza:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water and add the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt. Slowly stir in yeast mixture and olive oil until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes, then let it rest for 10 minutes.

Shape the Pizza

Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a heart shape. If you're unsure how to make a heart shape, start with a circle and pinch the top inwards to create the point and spread the bottom wide.

Add Sauce and Toppings

Transfer the shaped dough to a baking sheet. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the surface, leaving a small border. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top. Add fresh basil leaves and a dash of oregano for flavor.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Bake the pizza for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Let the pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving!

Pro Tips

For a crispy crust, use a pizza stone and preheat it in the oven before baking the pizza. Experiment with different toppings for personalized flavors!

Serving Suggestions

This heart-shaped pizza is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Serving it on a wooden board garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil adds a beautiful touch. Pair it with a light salad on the side, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, for a balanced meal. This combo enhances the dining experience, making it feel special and complete.

For an extra touch, consider serving your pizza with various dipping sauces on the side, like garlic butter or a spicy marinara. These can elevate each bite and cater to different flavor preferences. Plus, having a dipping option adds a fun element to the meal, encouraging everyone to share and enjoy.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover pizza, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crust's crispiness, I recommend reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps revive that freshly baked texture without making it soggy, which can often happen in the microwave.

For those looking to make this pizza ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and shape it a day prior. Simply roll out the heart-shaped dough and place it on parchment paper to refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and top it with your ingredients. This prep can simplify meal times and make entertaining even easier!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver and works just as well for this recipe.

→ How can I make gluten-free pizza?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure to follow the instructions on the blend for the best results.

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for later use. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before shaping.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Try adding pepperoni, vegetables, or even pesto for a unique flavor.