Blackberry and Fennel Pizza
Pizza is such a versatile dish, and I’m always experimenting with new flavor combos that push the boundaries of what you’d expect on a slice. Let me introduce you to my latest creation: Blackberry, and Fennel Pizza. It might sound a little unconventional, but trust me, the mix of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, sweet blackberries, and the subtle licorice-like flavor of fennel is a total game-changer. If you’re in the mood to try something different for pizza night, this is a must-make! If you’re looking for more amazing flavors, check out this Lemon Pesto Artichoke pizza too!
Why You’ll Love This Pizza
This isn’t your average pizza. It’s a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and creamy that brings something completely unexpected to the table. The fresh ricotta and mozzarella add a soft, creamy base, while the blackberries bring a burst of tart sweetness and acidity. Then there’s the fennel—a vegetable I feel doesn’t get enough love! When roasted, fennel becomes tender and slightly caramelized, adding a unique flavor that really rounds out the whole pizza.
Blackberry Fennel Pizza
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup ricotta
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella
- 1 cup Dubliner white cheddar
- 1/2 cup blackberries
- 1 bulb fennel
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
Instructions
- Add Base: Top pizza dough with tablespoons of ricotta and gently smear over the dough. The dough should be about 75% covered in ricotta with some bare spots. I like this to be a little uneven so there are some thinner and some thicker areas of ricotta.
- Add Toppings: Thinly slice fennel into 1/4 inch strips and spread 1/2 cup evenly over pizza dough and ricotta. Reserve the green fennel tops to use as a garnish. Tear mozzarella into pieces and spread around the pizza dough evenly. Add blackberries and thin lemon slices and top with grated cheddar.
- Bake: Use a pizza stone and bake at 450℉ for 12-15 minutes, turning half way through. You want a hollow sound when you tap on the bottom of the pizza.
- Slice & Enjoy: Let the pizza cool for 3-5 minutes, ideally on a cooling rack so it doesn't get soggy, before slicing (trust me, the wait is worth it).
- Finish with Honey & Herbs: Drizzle the pizza with honey or balsamic reduction for a hint of sweetness. Garnish with chopped fresh fennel fronds for a pop of color and extra freshness. Enjoy this sweet and savory combo that’s bound to become a new favorite!
Good pizza dough can help you quickly and easily make a great pizza. The good news is that it’s pretty easy and affordable to make without any extra additives or ingredients. Check out this recipe below for your next pizza dinner.
Why This Pizza Works
- Sweet & Savory Balance: The sweetness from the blackberries and honey complements the creaminess of the ricotta and mozzarella, while the fennel adds a slightly earthy and aromatic twist.
- Texture Play: The softness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the juicy blackberries and the subtle crunch of roasted fennel.
- Unique Flavor Combo: This pizza takes you on a flavor journey that’s outside the norm, perfect for those nights when you want to try something different.
Tips for Success
- Keep the Fennel Thin: Thin slices of fennel roast more quickly and evenly, so make sure you slice them thin to avoid a crunchy texture.
- Add Some Heat: If you’re into a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the pizza or drizzle a spicy honey on top just before serving for that sweet-heat combination.
- Use Fresh Ricotta and Mozzarella: The quality of your ricotta and mozzarella really shines in this pizza. Fresh cheese will give you that creamy, smooth texture that pairs so well with the other ingredients.
If you’re ready to take your pizza night up a notch, this Blackberry and Fennel Pizza will not disappoint. Let me know in the comments if you try it out! I can’t wait to hear what you think of this unexpected flavor combo.
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