Save The first time I made hot honey pepperoni flatbread was actually by accident during a lazy Friday night in. I had pepperoni going spare in the fridge and a jar of honey infused with chili flakes my sister gave me. The way that sweet heat hit the crispy pepperoni edges changed everything about how I think about quick weeknight pizza.
I made these for my roommate's birthday last minute when our dinner plans fell through and honestly nobody missed the reservation. She still asks for them every time she comes over and the way the honey caramelizes in tiny spots on the cheese has become something of a legend in our friend group.
Ingredients
- 2 flatbreads: Store-bought naan or pita works perfectly but homemade dough gives you that extra crispy bottom
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce: A thin layer is all you need too much makes the flatbread soggy in the middle
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella: Shredded melts more evenly than fresh and those golden brown spots are pure magic
- 24-28 slices pepperoni: Spicy pepperoni curls up beautifully creating those crispy cups that hold extra honey
- 1 small red onion: Thinly sliced adds a sharp bite that balances the sweet honey perfectly
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil: Tear it by hand for more surface area and that fresh pop against all the rich flavors
- 1/4 cup honey plus 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Mix this at least 15 minutes ahead so the heat really infuses
Instructions
- Get your oven screaming hot:
- Preheat to 450°F and put your baking sheet or pizza stone inside while the oven heats up
- Make the hot honey infusion:
- Whisk honey and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl and let it sit
- Prep your flatbread canvas:
- Lay flatbreads on parchment and brush the edges with olive oil if you want that golden finished crust
- Layer like a pro:
- Spread sauce thinly leaving a border then add mozzarella pepperoni and red onion slices
- Bake until bubbly:
- Slide the parchment onto your hot baking sheet and bake 10-12 minutes until cheese melts and crust turns golden
- The grand finale:
- Drizzle that hot honey all over top with fresh basil and crack some black pepper on top
Save These flatbreads have become my go-to for impromptu gatherings because they feel fancy enough for company but casual enough to not stress about. The way people lean in when that honey hits the table and the smell of crispy pepperoni fills the room that is the good stuff right there.
Make Ahead Strategy
You can mix the hot honey up to a week in advance and store it in a jar at room temperature. The flavors actually get better over time as the chili heat infuses into the honey.
Cheese Variations That Work
Smoked mozzarella adds this incredible depth that plays so nicely with the spicy pepperoni. A little sharp provolone mixed in gives you that classic pizza parlor flavor with extra bite.
Serving Ideas
Cut these into smaller strips for appetizers or leave them whole for a main course. They reheat surprisingly well in a dry skillet over medium heat which brings back the crisp crust.
- Pair with an arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness
- A cold beer or crisp white wine balances the sweet heat perfectly
- Extra red pepper flakes on the table for the heat seekers
Save Hope this recipe brings as many last minute dinner saves and happy accidents to your kitchen as it has to mine.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of flatbread works best?
Store-bought or homemade flatbreads about 8 inches in size work perfectly as a crisp base for this dish.
- → How is the hot honey made?
Combine honey with crushed red pepper flakes and let it infuse to create a sweet and spicy drizzle that complements the toppings.
- → Can I substitute the pepperoni?
Yes, you can try other spicy meats or use smoked mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- → What temperature should I bake the flatbread at?
Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) until the cheese melts and the crust is golden brown, about 10–12 minutes.
- → Are there optional garnishes for this flatbread?
Fresh torn basil adds herbal brightness, and freshly cracked black pepper can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor.
- → Can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the honey or sprinkle some on top before baking for an extra kick.