This festive Caprese Christmas Wreath Pizza is a beautiful holiday centerpiece that tastes as good as it looks. With a crisp golden crust, melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil, it brings classic Italian flavors together in a fun wreath shape that’s perfect for celebrations or cozy winter dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pizza is visually impressive yet easy to prepare, making it ideal for holidays and special occasions. The fresh Caprese flavors keep it light and balanced, while the wreath shape adds a festive touch without extra effort. It’s quick, customizable, and works equally well as a main dish or a shareable appetizer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the pizza dough
1 pizza dough, store-bought or homemade (about 450 g)
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the toppings
1 cup pizza sauce or crushed tomatoes (240 ml)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (about 150 g)
200 g fresh mozzarella pearls or fresh mozzarella, cut into small pieces
1 cup fresh basil leaves, whole or lightly torn
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
For finishing
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a large baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
Roll out the pizza dough into a large circle, about 30–35 cm in diameter. Place a small bowl in the center and cut around it to remove the middle, forming a wreath shape.
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil. Spread the pizza sauce evenly around the wreath, leaving a small border along the edges.
Evenly arrange the mozzarella over the sauce, followed by the cherry tomatoes. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Remove from the oven and immediately scatter the fresh basil leaves over the hot pizza. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze if using. Slice and serve warm.
Add sliced olives or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Use a mix of fresh mozzarella and shredded mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes before baking for a subtle spicy kick.
Replace pizza sauce with crushed tomatoes seasoned with oregano for a more rustic base.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness.
FAQs
Can I prepare this pizza in advance?
You can prepare the dough and toppings ahead, but baking just before serving gives the best result.
Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh mozzarella provides a softer texture and milder flavor.
How do I keep the wreath shape intact?
Cut a wide enough center hole and avoid piling toppings near the inner edge.
Is balsamic glaze necessary?
No, it’s optional, but it adds a pleasant sweet contrast to the savory toppings.
Can I make this pizza without pizza sauce?
Yes, crushed tomatoes lightly seasoned with salt work well.
Can I use whole wheat dough?
Yes, whole wheat dough can be used, though it will be slightly denser.
How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
Use a moderate amount of sauce and bake in a fully preheated oven.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free pizza dough suitable for high temperatures.
Is this pizza suitable for kids?
Yes, the mild flavors make it kid-friendly.
What can I serve with this pizza?
A fresh green salad or simple soup pairs well with this dish.
Conclusion
Caprese Christmas Wreath Pizza is a festive, flavorful recipe that combines simplicity with visual appeal. With fresh ingredients, easy preparation, and versatile serving options, it’s a perfect choice for holiday meals or anytime you want a pizza that feels special and homemade.
A festive, visually stunning Caprese-style pizza shaped like a holiday wreath, featuring fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a crisp golden crust—perfect for special occasions or cozy winter dinners.
Ingredients
For the pizza dough:
1 pizza dough, store-bought or homemade (about 450 g)
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the toppings:
1 cup pizza sauce or crushed tomatoes (240 ml)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (about 150 g)
200 g fresh mozzarella pearls or fresh mozzarella, cut into small pieces
1 cup fresh basil leaves, whole or lightly torn
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
For finishing:
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a large baking sheet or pizza stone with parchment paper.
Roll out the pizza dough into a 30–35 cm circle. Place a small bowl in the center, cut around it, and remove the middle to form a wreath shape.
Brush the dough lightly with olive oil.
Spread pizza sauce evenly around the wreath, leaving a small border at the edges.
Top with mozzarella, then cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is melted and bubbling.
Remove from oven and scatter fresh basil over the hot pizza.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze, if using.
Slice and serve warm.
Notes
Add sliced olives or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Use both fresh and shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Add chili flakes for a touch of heat.
Replace pizza sauce with seasoned crushed tomatoes for a rustic option.
