This Pumpkin Pizza recipe is all about embracing the flavors of fall while bringing a twist to a classic favorite. Imagine biting into a warm slice of a pizza where savory pumpkin puree perfectly blends with creamy cheeses. Each bite has a unique texture—from crispy crust edges to a creamy topping with a sprinkle of crunch from seeds. Not only is this dish inviting because of its delightful taste and aroma, but it also highlights the versatility of pumpkin, stepping beyond its usual dessert role. So, whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or snuggling up at home, this pumpkin pizza is sure to be a seasonal hit that sparks joy and warmth.
Why This Recipe Works
This Pumpkin Pizza recipe beautifully balances savory and sweet flavors while embracing the fall essence. The creamy pumpkin puree serves as a unique base, enhancing the richness of fresh cheeses. Each bite provides a delightful combination of textures: crispy edges, creamy toppings, and a touch of crunch from seeds. Perfectly baked on an easy pizza dough, this dish showcases the versatility of pumpkin beyond desserts, making it a seasonal delight.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pizza
Designed for both novice chefs and veteran home cooks, this Pumpkin Pizza recipe brings the warmth of home baking directly to your table. Its inviting aroma and vibrant colors make it a standout dish for gatherings or cozy nights in. Beyond its ease of preparation, this pizza is also nutritionally rich, offering a burst of vitamins from the pumpkin and freshness from herbs. Pepper in hints of garlic and thyme, and it’s a flavor experience you won’t forget.
Ingredients
- 1 ball Easy pizza dough (or store-bought dough)
- 1 cup (220 grams) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme (or ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- â…› teaspoon black pepper, plus more for serving
- 5 oz (150 grams) fresh mozzarella (or ½ to ⅓ cup shredded firm mozzarella)
- 3 oz (90 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparing Your Pizza Dough
Shaping Your Dough
Follow the easy no-knead pizza recipe through the initial steps, particularly focusing on shaping the pizza and preheating your oven to ensure a perfectly baked base. To get started with the dough, you might want to let it rise for a bit before shaping. This is where the magic begins!
Crafting the Pumpkin Mixture
Mixing the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, grated garlic, extra virgin olive oil, fine salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and set aside. You’ll be amazed at how aromatic this mixture becomes. The garlic brings a wonderful zing that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
Preparing the Cheese
Slicing the Mozzarella
If you’re going with fresh mozzarella, slice it into ½-inch thick pieces. If the cheese looks too watery, lightly pat it with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This step ensures your pizza doesn’t become soggy, allowing the crust to stay crispy.
Shaping Your Pizza
Forming the Crust
Once your dough has risen, place it on a parchment paper sheet. From the center, gently press it out to form a rectangle measuring approximately 9×13 inches. Carefully transfer the dough onto a pizza peel or the back of a rimmed baking sheet, which makes moving it to the oven a breeze.
Adding the Toppings
Assemble Your Pizza
Spread the prepared pumpkin mixture evenly over the stretched dough. Top with slices of mozzarella, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of seeds. Finish with a generous crack of black pepper. The contrast of colors and textures is delightful, and you’ll want to savor this dish before even tasting it!
Baking Your Pizza
Cooking to Perfection
Using the pizza peel, transfer the pizza to your preheated pizza stone. Bake until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, so keep an eye on it since oven temperatures can vary. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply irresistible.
Serving Your Pizza
Garnishing and Enjoying
Once out of the oven, sprinkle your freshly baked pizza with chopped chives and add more black pepper or salt if desired. Slice it up and serve immediately for a delightful fall dish! The warmth and flavors will be a hit at any table, making everyone want a second slice.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this delicious pizza with a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve it alongside a warm apple cider or pumpkin ale for the perfect seasonal drink pairing. Nothing quite complements the flavors of fall like these combinations!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve the best crust texture. A hot oven is key for that golden, crispy finish.
- Feel free to experiment with additional toppings such as caramelized onions or roasted vegetables to enhance flavor profiles. Topping options are endless!
Variations
- Transform this into an even heartier delight by adding spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
- Substitute feta with goat cheese for a tangy twist that adds a delightful creaminess to the pizza. Each option brings its unique charm!
Storage Tips
- If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven to restore its crispy texture. Microwaving might work but doesn’t give the same satisfying crunch.
Pairing Ideas
- Complement your Pumpkin Pizza with a wedge of creamy blue cheese or a splash of balsamic glaze for added flavor depth.
- A crisp white wine or a light red can elevate your dining experience, making every bite just a bit more special.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, be sure to choose 100% pumpkin puree, not pie filling. This is crucial for the right flavor!
2. How do I make the dough from scratch?
Combine flour, water, yeast, and salt. Let it rise until doubled, then follow the shaping instructions above. Making your own dough can really elevate this experience.
3. What other cheeses can I use?
Ricotta or Gouda are delicious alternatives to mozzarella and feta if you want to switch things up.
4. Can I freeze the leftover pizza?
Absolutely! Wrap slices in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven for the best texture later.
5. What if I don’t like pumpkin?
No worries! You can substitute the pumpkin puree with butternut squash for a similar flavor profile, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
This Pumpkin Pizza isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that unites flavors, seasons, and loved ones around the table. Whether enjoying a slice during a cozy night in or showcasing it at a dinner party, this pizza delivers comfort and creativity in every bite. Celebrate the fall season with this deliciously unique recipe and savor the rich taste that pumpkin brings to the classic pizza experience!
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Pumpkin Pizza
Pumpkin Pizza blends savory and sweet flavors with a creamy pumpkin puree base and fresh cheeses, making it perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ball Easy pizza dough (or store-bought dough)
- 1 cup (220 grams) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme (or ½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves)
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- â…› teaspoon black pepper, plus more for serving
- 5 oz (150 grams) fresh mozzarella (or ½ to ⅓ cup shredded firm mozzarella)
- 3 oz (90 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven and prepare the pizza dough according to your chosen recipe.
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, grated garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and thyme until blended.
- Slice the mozzarella if using fresh cheese, pat to remove excess moisture.
- Roll out the dough to a rectangle (approx. 9×13 inches) on parchment paper.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture over the dough, topping with mozzarella and feta.
- Transfer the pizza to a preheated pizza stone and bake until golden brown (8-10 minutes).
- Sprinkle with chives and additional black pepper before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure your oven is fully preheated for the best crust texture.
Experiment with additional toppings like caramelized onions or roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 380
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 25
