Save The first time I made this hot honey pepperoni flatbread was during a chaotic weeknight when my best friend dropped by unexpectedly. I had random ingredients in the fridge and zero energy for anything fancy but we ended up eating standing up in the kitchen burning our fingers on molten cheese because we couldnt wait for it to cool down.
Last summer I made these for a backyard movie night and my friends dad who hates spicy food went back for thirds. He kept saying I dont know whats in that honey drizzle but its dangerous. Now he texts me whenever he tries to recreate it asking exactly how much red pepper flakes I actually use.
Ingredients
- 2 store bought or homemade flatbreads about 8 inch each The flatbread base matters more than you think naan works great for a softer bite while thin crust gives you that satisfying crunch
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara Dont oversauce or the middle gets soggy a thin layer is all you need
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Fresh mozzarella pearls give you those gorgeous brown spots but shredded melts more evenly and stretches beautifully
- 24–28 slices spicy pepperoni The cups form and hold little pools of hot grease and flavor thats where the magic happens
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced Raw red onion adds crunch and a sharp bite that cuts through the rich cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves torn Tear it by hand dont cut it bruises the leaves and releases more oil
- 1/4 cup honey mixed with 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Make this first so the heat has time to infuse into the honey it gets spicier the longer it sits
Instructions
- Get things hot
- Crank your oven to 450°F and throw in a baking sheet or pizza stone so it preheats along with the oven this step is non negotiable for crispy crust.
- Make the hot honey
- Whisk honey and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl and let it hang out while you prep everything else the longer it sits the more heat you get.
- Prep your canvas
- Lay flatbreads on parchment paper and brush the edges with olive oil if you want that golden brown finish.
- Layer it up
- Spread a thin layer of sauce leaving a border for the crust then sprinkle mozzarella and arrange pepperoni slices so they overlap slightly and scatter red onion on top.
- Bake until bubbly
- Slide the parchment onto the hot baking sheet and bake 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the pepperoni edges are curled and crispy.
- Finish with flair
- Drizzle that spicy honey all over the top like youre painting a masterpiece then hit it with torn basil and crack some black pepper over everything.
Save This flatbread became my go to for impromptu gatherings because it looks impressive but takes zero effort. My sister requested it for her birthday dinner instead of a cake which says everything about how addictive it is.
Making It Your Own
Swap the flatbread for naan or pita if thats what you have or use a pre made pizza dough for a more traditional crust. I once used a garlic naan base and it was next level.
Cheese Choices That Work
Smoked mozzarella adds depth while a little sharp provolone mixed with the mozzarella gives you better melt and more flavor complexity.
Heat Levels
Start with one teaspoon of red pepper flakes and taste the honey after 10 minutes. You can always add more heat but you cant take it away.
- For mild heat stick with one teaspoon or use half a teaspoon
- If you love spice go up to two teaspoons or add a pinch of cayenne
- Sprinkle extra red pepper flakes on top before baking for surface heat
Save Best eaten hot standing up in the kitchen with the people you love.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I make the hot honey topping?
Mix honey with crushed red pepper flakes and let it infuse for a spicy-sweet drizzle.
- → Can I use other flatbread types?
Yes, naan or pita breads offer great alternatives with slightly different textures.
- → What cheese works best for this dish?
Shredded mozzarella melts well for a gooey, stretchy texture that complements the spicy toppings.
- → How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Brushing the crust edges with olive oil before baking helps keep them crisp and golden.
- → What variations can enhance the flavor?
Try smoked mozzarella or add pickled jalapeños for an extra smoky or tangy kick.