Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza Recipe
If you’re ready to wow your tastebuds and impress guests with something truly unique, then you simply have to try the Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza. This sweet-meets-savory pie combines creamy ricotta, juicy blackberries, fragrant basil, and a crisp, golden crust all finished with a hint of balsamic glaze for extra zing. It’s a vibrant, mouthwatering twist on classic pizza that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. Whether you’re serving up appetizers for a party or just treating yourself to a Friday night upgrade, this Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza lies in its simple, fresh ingredients; every single element plays a key role in the final burst of flavors and colors. Each one contributes to a perfect harmony of creamy, tart, herby, and crispy.
- Pizza dough: The perfect canvas—opt for store-bought for convenience or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. A good dough makes the base crisp outside and chewy inside.
- Ricotta cheese: A creamy, rich layer that’s light and fluffy. Add a touch of lemon zest and salt for maximum flavor.
- Blackberries: Fresh, juicy blackberries provide a burst of sweetness and a stunning purple color—no other berry does the trick quite like these.
- Fresh basil leaves: Torn just before adding, basil brings a fragrant, herby lift that ties the sweet and savory together.
- Olive oil: A drizzle ensures everything gets golden and lush, and adds a bit of richness.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and lifts the ricotta and berries. A little goes a long way.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and depth to offset the cool ricotta and berries.
- Balsamic glaze (optional): Adds a tangy, syrupy finish that’s utterly craveable and elevates the whole experience.
How to Make Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Your journey to a showstopping Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza starts with a hot oven. Preheat to 450°F or follow your pizza dough’s instructions. The high heat gives you a golden, crispy crust and melts the cheese just right.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pizza dough to your desired shape—round, oval, or rustic rectangle—whatever you love! Place your dough on a baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone for the best results.
Step 3: Spread the Ricotta
Using a spoon or spatula, evenly spread the seasoned ricotta cheese over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edge to create that perfect pizza “lip” for easy holding and a touch of crunch.
Step 4: Add the Blackberries
Scatter fresh blackberries across the creamy ricotta. Don’t worry about perfect organization—their juice will seep into the cheese as they roast, making every bite exciting.
Step 5: Add Basil and Olive Oil
Tear fresh basil leaves right onto the pizza (the aroma is incredible). Drizzle everything with a generous swirl of olive oil, then sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper to balance the flavors.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer your assembled pizza into the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes. Keep an eye out—the crust should be golden and crisp, and the ricotta ever-so-slightly bubbling. The blackberries will soften and release their juices, adding gorgeous color to the pizza.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Let the pizza rest for about 2 minutes right out of the oven so everything sets perfectly. Drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze if you’re using it, then slice and serve warm to truly appreciate all the fresh flavors of your Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza.
How to Serve Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza
Garnishes
This pizza truly shines with some fresh basil scattered on top just before serving and an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze. For added crunch, a handful of toasted pine nuts or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevates it from “wow” to “unforgettable.”
Side Dishes
Keep things simple: serve your Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza with a peppery arugula salad, a tangy citrus slaw, or a crisp sauvignon blanc. These sides let the flavors in the pizza really pop without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a starter, cut the pizza into bite-sized squares and serve on a wooden board with cocktail sticks. If you’re hosting brunch, pair slices with mimosas and fresh fruit. You can even offer a “pizza bar” with assorted toppings for guests to customize their own Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza slices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any uneaten slices cool fully before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days; the flavors tend to mingle and become even more pronounced overnight, so leftovers make a delicious next-day snack!
Freezing
You can freeze Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza after baking. Wrap individual slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then pop them into a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 1 month, perfect for future cravings.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in a 375°F oven for about 8 minutes until hot. The crust will stay crisp, and the ricotta will warm up nicely. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the crust chewy instead of crackly.
FAQs
Can I make Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza with whole wheat or gluten-free dough?
Absolutely! While traditional dough gives a classic texture, using whole wheat or gluten-free dough works beautifully, so everyone can enjoy this creative flavor combo.
What other cheeses work if I don’t have ricotta?
Cream cheese blended with a splash of lemon or soft goat cheese are both fantastic alternatives that keep the creamy element front and center.
Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, just let them thaw and blot gently with paper towels before adding. Fresh is always a bit more vibrant, but frozen berries work well in a pinch.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
While optional, the balsamic glaze adds tang and depth. If you don’t have any, a quick reduction of balsamic vinegar in a saucepan does the trick beautifully.
What protein could I add to the pizza?
If you want a touch more heartiness, try adding prosciutto or sliced grilled chicken. They both play nicely with the other flavors without overpowering the Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza magic.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving something new, fun, and packed with flavor, I can’t recommend the Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza enough. It’s the type of dish that always gets people talking and coming back for seconds. Give it a try—you might just discover your new signature pizza!
Print
Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 pizza 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the unique flavors of this Blackberry, Basil & Ricotta Pizza that combines the sweetness of blackberries, the freshness of basil, and the creaminess of ricotta on a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Pizza Dough:
- 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Ricotta Topping:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (seasoned with lemon zest and salt if desired)
Additional Toppings:
- 1 cup blackberries (fresh)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 450°F (or as directed on pizza dough package).
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out pizza dough into desired shape and transfer to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Spread Ricotta: Spread ricotta evenly over dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add Toppings: Scatter blackberries across the ricotta layer. Tear fresh basil and sprinkle over the top. Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Bake for 10–15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is gently bubbling.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 2 minutes, then drizzle with balsamic glaze if using. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- This pizza pairs well with a glass of light red wine.
- For a savory twist, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Blackberry Basil Ricotta Pizza, Homemade Pizza Recipe, Fruit Pizza
