I love how this pizza takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something memorable. The spicy hot honey drizzle adds unexpected flavor that pairs beautifully with gooey cheese, crisped pepperoni or sausage, and a perfectly baked crust. It’s quick to make, incredibly flavorful, and easy to customize with whatever toppings I’m in the mood for.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cooked and sliced pepperoni or spicy sausage
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing crust)
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Fresh basil or arugula (optional, for topping)
For the Hot Honey:
1/4 cup honey
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (or a pinch of chili flakes)
Directions
I preheat my oven to 475°F (245°C) and line a pizza stone or baking sheet with parchment paper.
I roll out the pizza dough to my desired thickness and place it on the prepared surface.
I spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, then sprinkle on the mozzarella cheese and add the pepperoni or sausage slices evenly.
I brush the edges of the crust with olive oil to help them brown and crisp in the oven.
I bake the pizza for 10–12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
While the pizza bakes, I combine the honey and hot sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through, or mix them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short bursts.
Once the pizza is out of the oven, I drizzle the hot honey generously over the top.
I finish with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes and fresh herbs if I want a little extra flair.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes one standard 12-inch pizza, serving about 2–4 people depending on portion size. It takes about 15 minutes of prep and cook time, making it perfect for a fast, flavorful meal.
Variations
Sometimes I switch up the base with barbecue or garlic sauce, or I use ricotta instead of mozzarella for a creamier texture. For a veggie option, I load up on roasted peppers, red onions, and mushrooms. And if I want even more heat, I add jalapeño slices before baking or use a spicier hot sauce in the honey.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover slices can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F until hot and crisp again. A quick pan-fry on the stove also brings back that fresh-made texture.
FAQs
What kind of hot sauce works best for hot honey?
I usually use a classic hot sauce like Frank’s or a smoky one like chipotle-based sauces. Sriracha works too if I want a garlicky kick.
Can I make hot honey ahead of time?
Yes, I keep it in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to a week. It’s great on pizza, but I also drizzle it on chicken, veggies, or toast.
Do I need a pizza stone?
Not at all. A baking sheet works just fine. I just make sure to preheat it if I want a crispier crust.
Can I use pre-baked crust?
Yes, I use pre-baked crusts when I need a shortcut. I just reduce the bake time slightly since the crust is already cooked.
Is this pizza really spicy?
The heat level is up to me. I adjust the amount of hot sauce in the honey or skip the extra chili flakes if I want it milder.
Conclusion
Spicy Hot Honey Pizza is one of those simple yet bold recipes that I keep coming back to. The sweet and spicy drizzle transforms classic pizza into something exciting and addictive. It’s fast, customizable, and perfect for anyone who loves a little heat with their comfort food.
