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Heart-Shaped Mini Pizzas

Heart-Shaped Mini Pizzas
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Heart-Shaped Mini Pizzas are a fun, quick, and visually charming appetizer or snack perfect for parties, cozy nights, or special occasions. Ready in under 30 minutes, they feature a soft, chewy pizza dough base topped with tangy tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and customizable toppings, all shaped into adorable hearts. Perfect for all ages, this recipe offers versatility with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and spicy variations, creating an impressive and delicious bite-size treat.

Ingredients

Base

  • Pizza Dough (store-bought or homemade) – enough to cut multiple 2-3 inch hearts
  • Olive Oil – for brushing the crust edges

Sauce

  • Tomato Sauce (marinara or pizza sauce) – about 1 tablespoon per mini pizza

Cheese

  • Mozzarella Cheese, freshly shredded – generous amount per mini pizza
  • Parmesan Cheese, grated – a sprinkle for finishing touch

Toppings (Optional)

  • Pepperoni slices or other meats – as desired
  • Fresh Basil or Oregano – for garnish and freshness
  • Vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, olives (for vegetarian option)
  • Red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños (for spicy kick)
  • Vegan cheese substitute (for vegan version)
  • Scrambled eggs and bacon (for breakfast style)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness for even baking. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, press out small dough hearts and transfer them carefully to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Add the Sauce: Spread about a tablespoon of tomato sauce evenly over each heart-shaped dough piece, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent sogginess and ensure a crispy crust.
  3. Layer the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously on top of the sauce, making sure to cover the pizza evenly for that signature cheesy goodness.
  4. Add Your Toppings: Place your choice of toppings such as pepperoni slices, veggies, or herbs over the cheese. Don’t overload—that helps maintain a perfect bake and prevents toppings from sliding off.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Pop the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and brush the crust edges with olive oil for shine and flavor. Sprinkle with fresh basil or oregano and a little grated Parmesan for the finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use a Sharp Cutter: A clean, sharp heart-shaped cutter ensures crisp edges and easier handling of the dough.
  • Don’t Overload Toppings: Keep toppings minimal to maintain the shape and ensure even cooking.
  • Preheat the Oven: A hot oven ensures a crisp, golden crust every time.
  • Chill Dough if Needed: If dough gets sticky while cutting, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: Mix mozzarella with provolone or fontina for deeper flavor complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini pizzas, heart-shaped pizzas, appetizer, snack, party food, gluten-free pizza, vegetarian pizza, vegan pizza, quick recipes

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/heart-shaped-mini-pizzas/