This Holiday Wreath Pizza brings festive cheer to any table with its vibrant wreath shape, topped with roasted cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. With a crisp, golden crust and a combination of classic flavors, it makes for a perfect appetizer or centerpiece at your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pizza
- 1 pizza dough, store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dried oregano or Italian seasoning, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Dough
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a large circle. Use a small round cutter or bowl to cut out a hole in the center, creating a wreath shape. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Add the Sauce
Spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a slight border around the edges for the crust.
3. Arrange Toppings
Place the halved mozzarella balls and cherry tomato halves around the wreath, alternating them in a decorative pattern. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a dash of oregano or Italian seasoning.
4. Bake
Drizzle the pizza lightly with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Add Basil Leaves
Once the pizza is out of the oven, carefully place fresh basil leaves between the cheese and tomatoes for a vibrant pop of color.
6. Serve
Slice and serve this festive Holiday Wreath Pizza warm for a delicious and eye-catching treat!
Notes
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add extras like black olives, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for added flavor and color.
- Make it Vegan: Use vegan mozzarella or another dairy-free cheese alternative to make this pizza vegan-friendly.
- Dough Shape: For a more traditional wreath look, gently twist sections of the dough before adding the toppings.
Helpful Tips
1. Use Room Temperature Dough
Allow the pizza dough to rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to shape and helps it rise better in the oven.
2. Pre-Roast the Tomatoes
For extra flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes before placing them on the pizza. This brings out their sweetness and prevents excess moisture.
3. Shape Carefully
To achieve the wreath shape, use a small bowl or cutter to create a clean round hole in the center of the dough. This will help the pizza cook evenly.
4. Add Fresh Basil After Baking
To keep the fresh basil vibrant and full of flavor, add it after baking rather than during the cooking process, as it can wilt in the oven.
Substitutions and Variations
1. Cheese Options
Switch the mozzarella for burrata, feta, or goat cheese for a unique twist. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan mozzarella or any plant-based cheese.
2. Tomato Alternatives
If you prefer a more intense tomato flavor, substitute sun-dried tomatoes for the fresh cherry tomatoes. You can also use roasted red peppers or sliced bell peppers.
3. Herb Variations
Replace basil with rosemary, thyme, or arugula for a different flavor profile. If fresh herbs aren’t available, a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning works well.
4. Gluten-Free Dough
Use gluten-free pizza dough to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Most store-bought gluten-free doughs work well, or you can make your own.
5. Add a Drizzle
After baking, finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or pesto for added flavor and a touch of elegance.
6. Shape Variation
For individual servings, divide the dough into small rounds with holes in the center to create mini wreaths. These are perfect as appetizers or personal-sized pizzas.
7. Festive Toppings
Add pomegranate seeds or fresh cranberries after baking to add a holiday color pop and a burst of sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this pizza ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pizza up to a few hours in advance. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add fresh basil after baking for the best flavor and presentation.
2. How do I keep the pizza dough from getting soggy?
Avoid overloading the pizza with too much sauce or toppings, as excess moisture can cause the crust to become soggy. To ensure a crispy crust, you can pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the sauce and toppings.
3. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time. Just allow it to rest at room temperature before rolling it out.
4. Can I freeze this pizza?
Yes, you can freeze the pizza unbaked. Assemble it with sauce and toppings, then freeze it on a baking sheet until firm. Once frozen, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, place the pizza directly in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This Holiday Wreath Pizza is a perfect combination of festive presentation and classic pizza flavors. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, snack, or centerpiece, its vibrant colors and delicious toppings will make it a hit at any holiday gathering. Customize the toppings and shape to suit your preferences, and watch it become the star of your holiday table!