Caprese Christmas Wreath Pizza
Description
This festive Caprese Christmas Wreath Pizza is perfect for the holiday season! It’s a visually stunning, savory pizza shaped like a wreath and topped with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of flavors—creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and tangy balsamic—is reminiscent of the classic Italian Caprese salad but in a fun, shareable form. Ideal as an appetizer or centerpiece for a holiday party.
The pizza is shaped like a wreath to bring holiday cheer and can be decorated with tomato “berries” and basil “leaves” for a realistic look.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pizza Base:
1 store-bought or homemade pizza dough (about 12–14 inches)
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For the Topping:
1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced or in small balls (bocconcini)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1–2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Optional:
Garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor
Pesto drizzle for added color and taste
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while preheating.
2. Shape the Wreath
Roll out the pizza dough into a circle, about 12–14 inches in diameter.
Using a small cup or glass, cut a smaller circle in the center, creating a ring (like a wreath).
3. Prepare the Base
Place the dough ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza peel.
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.
Optionally, sprinkle with garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
4. Add Cheese
Arrange the mozzarella evenly around the wreath, leaving some gaps for tomato “berries.”
5. Add Tomatoes
Place halved cherry tomatoes around the wreath on top of the mozzarella.
Space them evenly to resemble wreath decorations.
6. Bake the Pizza
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Add Fresh Basil & Drizzle
Remove pizza from the oven.
Tuck fresh basil leaves between the tomatoes and cheese to resemble wreath leaves.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
Optional: drizzle with pesto for extra green festive flair.
8. Serve
Slice carefully from the outer ring inward.
Serve warm as an appetizer or main dish.
Tips for a Festive Wreath Look
Use mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) to look like ornaments.
Alternate red cherry tomatoes and yellow cherry tomatoes for a more colorful “wreath.”
Sprinkle a little finely chopped parsley or oregano for extra green accents.
Question & Answer
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the pizza ahead and keep it in the fridge for 1–2 hours, but bake it fresh for the best crust and melted cheese.
Q: Can I use pre-made sauce?
A: Caprese pizza traditionally doesn’t need tomato sauce, but a light spread of pesto or marinara can be used if desired.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a gluten-free pizza dough available in stores or homemade.
Q: How can I make it vegan?
A: Replace mozzarella with vegan mozzarella and drizzle with balsamic glaze; it will still be delicious!
This pizza is not only tasty but also doubles as a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. Its simple, fresh ingredients keep it light while festive, perfect for family and friends.