Print

Easy Pizza Roses for Valentine’s Day

Easy Pizza Roses for Valentine’s Day

Easy Pizza Roses for Valentine’s Day are charming, bite-sized treats that combine classic pizza flavors with an elegant rose-shaped presentation. Perfect for romantic occasions or parties, these quick and customizable snacks are simple to prepare and bake in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal shareable appetizer for any pizza lover.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • Pizza Dough: 1 store-bought or homemade dough ball (about 12 oz)
  • Tomato Sauce: 1/2 cup, evenly spread
  • Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for brushing

Fillings and Toppings

  • Mozzarella Cheese: 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded
  • Thinly Sliced Pepperoni or Ham: 12-15 slices
  • Fresh Basil or Oregano: 2 tablespoons chopped, for garnish
  • Parmesan Cheese (optional): 2 tablespoons, for sprinkling

Variations (Optional)

  • Roasted Red Peppers, Mushrooms, or Zucchini Slices (as vegetarian alternative)
  • Gluten-Free Pizza Dough (alternative to regular dough)
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes or Jalapeño Slices (for a spicy kick)
  • Cheese Blends like Provolone or Gouda (in place of or combined with mozzarella)
  • Fresh Herbs like Thyme, Rosemary, or Edible Flowers (instead of basil or oregano)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough and Sauce: Roll out the pizza dough into a thin rectangle on a floured surface. Spread an even layer of tomato sauce over the dough, leaving some space at the edges for easier handling and baking.
  2. Layer the Cheese and Pepperoni: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the sauce. Arrange thin slices of pepperoni or your chosen filling along one long side of the dough, slightly overlapping to help form the rose petals.
  3. Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the dough lengthwise, starting from the side with the pepperoni. Once fully rolled, slice the log into evenly sized pieces to form rose shapes.
  4. Arrange and Bake: Place each rolled slice upright in a greased muffin tin or baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Brush the tops with olive oil to promote a golden finish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the pizza roses with fresh herbs like basil or oregano and, if desired, a light dusting of Parmesan cheese. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use thinly sliced ingredients so they curl nicely to mimic rose petals.
  • Don’t overfill with sauce or cheese to avoid soggy roses.
  • Chill rolled dough in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
  • Grease your baking pan or muffin tin well to prevent sticking.
  • Experiment with slice thickness to create different rose sizes and dynamic presentations.
  • Store leftovers tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze uncooked sliced rolls on a tray until firm, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep crisp texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Valentine's Day, Pizza Roses, Appetizers, Romantic Snack, Bite-sized Pizza, Easy Pizza Recipe