Name: Blackberry Basil Ricotta Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pizza dough or your favorite homemade dough; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup fresh blackberries; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This blackberry basil ricotta pizza is perfect for anyone who loves experimenting with bold and unconventional flavor combinations. The sweet blackberries paired with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese create a luscious contrast, while the fresh basil adds a fragrant touch. The drizzle of honey brings a touch of sweetness, and the option to finish with balsamic glaze provides a tangy kick. It’s an easy and quick recipe, requiring only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for a casual weeknight dinner or a unique appetizer for a gathering. Plus, it’s a fun way to incorporate fresh, seasonal fruit into a savory dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pre-made pizza dough or your favorite homemade dough
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup fresh blackberries
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Directions

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to your desired thickness. Transfer the dough to a pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Spread the ricotta cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta.
Distribute the fresh blackberries and basil over the cheeses.
Drizzle the honey evenly over the toppings.
Carefully transfer the pizza to the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Optional: Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Cut into slices and serve immediately. Enjoy the unique combination of sweet blackberries, creamy ricotta, and aromatic basil on a crispy crust.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add nuts: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for extra texture and a bit of nuttiness.
Vegan version: Swap the ricotta and mozzarella for dairy-free cheese alternatives to make this pizza vegan.
Other fruits: Experiment with other fruits such as figs, pears, or strawberries for a different twist on the flavor profile.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the blackberries.
Herb variations: Try adding arugula, thyme, or oregano instead of basil for a unique herbaceous flavor.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can heat it in a skillet over medium heat for a crispy crust.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the ricotta with goat cheese or cream cheese, and mozzarella can be replaced with provolone or a similar mild cheese.

2. Can I make this pizza gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free pizza dough for the crust, and the rest of the ingredients remain the same.

3. How can I make this pizza spicier?

For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes on top of the cheese or drizzle with hot honey before baking.

4. Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?

Fresh blackberries are ideal for this recipe, but you can use frozen blackberries if needed. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using them on the pizza to avoid excess moisture.

5. How can I make the crust extra crispy?

To make the crust crispier, you can bake the pizza on a preheated pizza stone or use a pizza steel for a quicker, more even bake.

6. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

7. How do I make sure the ricotta doesn’t make the crust soggy?

Be sure to spread the ricotta in an even layer and avoid overloading the pizza with too much cheese. This will prevent excess moisture from making the crust soggy.

8. Can I make this pizza ahead of time?

While the pizza is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the toppings ahead of time and assemble the pizza just before baking. Alternatively, you can bake it, let it cool, and store it for later.

9. What can I serve with this pizza?

This pizza pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light soup like tomato basil.

10. Can I make individual-sized pizzas?

Yes, you can easily divide the dough into smaller portions and make individual-sized pizzas for a fun and customizable meal.

Conclusion

This blackberry basil ricotta pizza is a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, offering a refreshing twist on the classic pizza. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this pizza will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy experimenting with variations and toppings, and don’t forget to drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top for that perfect finish!