Ingredients
Pizza Base
- 1 (14 to 16-inch) unbaked pizza crust
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheeses & Fruits
- 2 cups blackberries (about 1 pint)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
Herbs
- 10 large fresh basil leaves (roughly chopped or chiffonade)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and pizza stone: Heat the oven to 500°F (260°C) and place a 14- to 16-inch pizza stone inside to preheat, ensuring a crispy pizza crust.
- Prepare the pizza crust: Lay out the unbaked pizza crust on a flat surface and brush it evenly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to provide a flavorful base and prevent sogginess.
- Mash half of the blackberries: In a small bowl, mash half of the 2 cups of blackberries until slightly pulpy, then spread this mixture evenly over the oiled crust to infuse the pizza with fruity flavor.
- Add shredded cheeses: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese evenly on top of the mashed blackberries, creating a savory cheese layer.
- Top with remaining blackberries and ricotta: Halve the remaining blackberries and scatter them evenly across the pizza. Then dollop 1/2 cup ricotta cheese in heaping teaspoon-sized portions over the surface to add creamy richness.
- Bake the pizza: Carefully transfer the prepared pizza onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and begins to brown lightly.
- Add fresh basil: While the pizza bakes, roughly chop or chiffonade the 10 fresh basil leaves. In the last 1 to 2 minutes of baking, sprinkle the basil evenly over the pizza for a fresh herbal aroma and flavor.
- Serve the pizza: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it rest for 1 to 2 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Slice into 8 wedges and serve hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Using a pizza stone helps achieve a crispier crust by evenly distributing oven heat.
- Mashing half the blackberries brings out their juices to blend with the cheese and crust for extra flavor.
- Adding basil at the end preserves its fresh taste and vibrant color.
- This pizza pairs well with a light salad or a glass of chilled white wine.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the crust with a gluten-free pizza base.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
