Pumpkin Pizza
Embracing the warm, cozy vibes of fall often translates to hearty meals brimming with seasonal flavors. One recipe that I can’t help but get excited about during this time of year is Pumpkin Pizza. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked pizza mingling with roasted pumpkin, sweet onions, and creamy burrata; it’s enough to transport you straight to a sun-drenched autumn afternoon.
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I remember the first time I experimented with this recipe; I had some friends over for a casual dinner gathering. I wanted to offer a unique twist to our pizza night, leaning into autumn’s bountiful harvest. As I pulled the pizzas from the oven, the gooey cheese melted beautifully over the vibrant orange pumpkin base, creating an inviting mosaic of flavors and colors. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about it, and it quickly became a seasonal favorite that we look forward to every year. If you’re ready to savor fall’s best offerings on a flaky, golden crust, you won’t want to miss making this ultra-delicious Pumpkin Pizza.
Why This Is The Best Pumpkin Pizza Recipe
Let me share why this recipe for Pumpkin Pizza is a must-try in your kitchen. It’s simple and quick, requiring just 5 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or surprise gatherings. Each bite offers an irresistible flavor profile; the earthy pumpkin perfectly balances the slight sweetness of onions, while the creamy burrata brings everything together in a mouthwatering experience. Visually, this pizza is a feast for the eyes—vibrant and colorful, it’s bound to impress anyone you serve it to. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; whether you’re looking for a new brunch item, a cozy dinner recipe, or a potluck dish, this pizza fits the bill.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (240 ml) lukewarm water: It activates the yeast, helping the dough rise perfectly.
- ¾ teaspoon fine salt: Enhances the flavor of the pizza crust and toppings.
- 3 cups (360 grams) Flour: All-purpose or bread flour works well here for a chewy texture.
- ½ teaspoon instant yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly; no proofing needed.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness to the dough and contributes to a crunchy crust.
- 1 can (1 ¾ cup) pumpkin puree: Make sure you use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling for authentic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Enhances the flavor of the topping.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste for seasoning the pumpkin mixture.
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper: A hint of spice to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- 1 large garlic clove, grated: Provides an aromatic depth to the flavors.
- 1 large white onion, finely sliced: Slices can caramelize beautifully, adding sweetness to each bite.
- Leaves from a few sprigs of thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely, fragrant quality. You can substitute with ½ teaspoon of dried thyme.
- 10 oz (300 grams) burrata or buffalo mozzarella: This wonderful cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy layer of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts or pumpkin seeds: For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Extra virgin olive oil and fresh black pepper: Drizzle on top before serving for an extra touch.
How to Make Pumpkin Pizza
Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to at least 450°F (230°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and tools, ensuring you have everything ready for a smooth pizza-making experience. The right setup will streamline the process and minimize cooking time, so you can enjoy that delicious pizza even faster.
Mix the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the lukewarm water and salt. Then, toss in the flour mixed with instant yeast gradually. Start mixing on low speed with the dough hook. The dough should be soft and elastic but not overly sticky; add a little more flour if necessary. Once the flour is incorporated, drizzle olive oil into the mixture. Increase the speed to medium and let it knead for 10 minutes until you have a smooth ball of dough.
Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface, covering it with a damp tea towel. Let it rest for about 30 minutes. After its initial rest, divide the dough into two equal parts. For each piece, gently stretch the edges to the center, creating a taut ball with a seam at the bottom. Cover the dough balls again and let them rise for another two hours or until they have doubled in size. Patience here guarantees a light and airy crust.
Shape the Pizza
Once the dough has risen beautifully, use your fingertips to gently push it outward from the center to create a round shape about 11 inches in diameter. Be sure to leave about an inch of dough along the edges to form a lovely crust. Try to preserve any air bubbles for a light texture, which adds an extra element of delight to your Pumpkin Pizza.
Prepare the Pumpkin Topping
In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree with extra virgin olive oil, salt, black pepper, and grated garlic. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This fragrant mix forms the main flavor base for the pizza, so tasting and adjusting to your liking is vital.
Top and Bake
Spread the prepared pumpkin mixture over the shaped dough, followed by the slices of onion, pine nuts, and thyme. Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the edges are crispy. As it bakes, aromas will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
Add the Cheese and Serve
Once out of the oven, tear the burrata or mozzarella into pieces and scatter it over the pizza. Let it rest briefly, allowing the cheese to warm through. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh black pepper. Slice and serve warm, taking a moment to breathe in the deliciousness of your creation.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Overworking the Dough: When kneading, ensure not to overdo it. An overly worked dough can become tough.
- Check Your Yeast: Ensure that your instant yeast is fresh for the best rise. A small test with warm water can confirm its activation.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, use room temperature ingredients, especially the cheese, which will facilitate melting.
- Monitor Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your pizza. It should be bubbling and golden brown when ready.
- Season Well: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning of the pumpkin mixture to suit your palate. A touch more salt or pepper can make a significant difference.
Serve It With
To elevate your Pumpkin Pizza experience, consider pairing it with a refreshing arugula salad, lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. You could also serve a side of roasted garlic dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost. If you desire a beverage pairing, a glass of crisp white wine or apple cider can enhance the seasonal theme beautifully. And don’t forget the great conversation that comes with sharing food!
How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Pumpkin Pizza, you’ll want to store it right. At room temperature, it can last for about 2 hours safely. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it should be consumed within 3 to 4 days. Freezing is also an option; tightly wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, storing them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. The crust may lose some crispness but will still taste delightful when refreshed this way.
Tips & Variations
Experimentation makes cooking fun. Consider swapping out the onions for sautéed mushrooms for added earthiness or drizzling the finished pizza with a chili oil if you like some heat. If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pizza crust. You could even try adding seasonal vegetables, like sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers, to give it a more colorful twist. Looking for a sweeter profile? Add a thin layer of caramelized apples on top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just let it sit out at room temperature for 30 minutes before shaping and baking; this will help revive the yeast.
What can I use instead of burrata?
If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese makes a great substitute! Each will provide a creamy texture and delicious flavor to your pizzas.
Can this pizza be made Vegan?
Sure! Simply replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative, like vegan mozzarella or skip it altogether for a lighter option.
How do I prevent my pizza crust from getting soggy?
To avoid a soggy crust, ensure you pre-bake your pizza crust for a few minutes before adding toppings. This gives it a good initial bake and helps keep that wonderful crunch.
With its inviting flavors and delightful textures, this Pumpkin Pizza recipe invites you to celebrate the cozy spirit of fall in a truly delicious way. Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet night, this recipe is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience—your taste buds will thank you!
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📖 Recipe Card
Pumpkin Pizza
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 pizzas 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Pumpkin Pizza blends roasted pumpkin, caramelized onions, and creamy burrata on a flaky crust, making it an inviting dish for cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) lukewarm water
- ¾ teaspoon fine salt
- 3 cups (360 grams) flour
- ½ teaspoon instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (1 ¾ cup) pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large garlic clove, grated
- 1 large white onion, finely sliced
- Leaves from a few sprigs of thyme
- 10 oz (300 grams) burrata or buffalo mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts or pumpkin seeds
- Extra virgin olive oil and fresh black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Combine lukewarm water and salt in the mixer. Gradually add flour and instant yeast, kneading until a soft dough forms.
- Let the dough rest for 30 minutes, then divide into two parts and shape into balls, allowing to rise for 2 hours.
- Shape each dough ball into a round pizza base about 11 inches in diameter.
- Mix pumpkin puree, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic in a bowl. Spread this mixture over the shaped dough.
- Top with sliced onion, pine nuts, and thyme. Bake for about 8 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from oven, add torn burrata, drizzle olive oil, sprinkle black pepper, slice, and serve.
Notes
Avoid overworking the dough to maintain tenderness.
Use room temperature ingredients for better melting of cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
