Get ready for a sweet and indulgent treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth! Introducing a delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Pizza! This recipe combines the flaky and crispy texture of a classic pizza crust with the rich and decadent flavor of an indulgent chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries. Perfect for Valentine's Day--either a fun night in or a unique dessert option for a party. This treat is not only memorable, it's downright delicious!
2cupssliced strawberries,(about 10-12, depending on size)
¼cupfinely chopped pecans(or granola!)
1cupsemi-sweet chocolate chips(or an 8-oz dark chocolate bar, finely chopped)
½cupheavy whipping cream
2tbsp powdered sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
CRUST: Follow package directions to preheat oven and roll out pizza crust (See Note 1). Transfer to a parchment-paper lined pizza pan or large sheet pan. Melt butter and use a pastry brush to brush evenly and generously over the crust. Sprinkle crust with granulated sugar. Bake the pizza crust according to package directions until baked through and firm (not raw), but not over-baked/over-browned. Remove and let cool.
PREPARE TOPPINGS: Meanwhile, slice the strawberries from top to bottom to create heart-shaped slices. Measure out the chopped nuts so they’re ready to use.
CHOCOLATE SAUCE: Add chopped chocolate or chocolate chips to a medium-sized glass bowl and set aside. Pour the heavy cream into a microwave-safe liquid measuring cup. Microwave until very hot, but not boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips. Cover the bowl and let stand for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, gently stir until you've got a smooth sauce. (Don't want to use microwave? See Note 2!)
ASSEMBLE: Remove the crust from the parchment paper and place on a serving plate or platter. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate sauce evenly over the crust, leaving a 1-inch border. Distribute the strawberry slices evenly over the chocolate. Sprinkle chopped pecans over all and sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar through a fine mesh sieve as a finishing touch.
SERVE: Slice the Chocolate Pizza into 8 to 10 slices (depending on the size of pan used). Serve and eat with your fingers, or with a fork and knife.
Notes
Note 1: Pizza crust: To make it quick and easy, we’re using prepared pizza dough. You can find it in many grocery stores (in the deli area, in the freezer section, and in the dairy area), and some pizza restaurants sell it. If you prefer, though, you can make your own pizza crust from scratch or try one of the following: packaged naan, flatbread or even tortillas, OR make a crust from sugar cookie dough or use a packaged pie crust.If you get just a ball of pizza dough (not a pre-made crust), follow these directions: On a floured board, use a rolling pin to roll out the ball of pizza dough into a shape that will fit your pan. Place on the pan and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until just starting to brown a bit. Make sure the crust is firm (not raw) but do not over-bake.Note 2: Stovetop method: Pour the heavy cream into a small pot. Over medium heat, bring the cream near boiling point. When you see small bubbles forming around the edge, the cream is ready. Remove from the burner and place on a heat-safe surface. Add in the chopped chocolate and stir until it forms a smooth sauce.Fun Variation Ideas:
Swap out the strawberries: Just about any fruit works for this chocolate pizza. Try apple slices, redraspberries, or blueberries. You can even use driedfruit, if that’s what’s available. And don’t forget to consider combining fruits, like red raspberries and blueberries for a patriotic Chocolate Pizza on July 4th? If you choose bananas or apples, dip the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning if you won’t be serving the pizza immediately.
Different filling: Instead of dark chocolate, you can also use milk chocolate. But, how about a Nutella® pizza? Spread on Nutella instead of the chocolate-cream sauce. Or, try a filling made with cookiebutter for something different!
Healthier pizza: It’s easy to make this Chocolate Pizza healthier. Make a homemade crust from white whole wheat flour. Use vegan or naturally sweetened chocolate. (Lily’s® is one of several companies that makes naturally sweetened chocolate bars and chocolate chips.) You can swap out the cream for coconut cream.