1. Prepare Your Dough (or Grab Store-Bought!):
If making dough from scratch: In a small bowl, gently combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 tsp sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it gets frothy. In a larger bowl, mix the flour and salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and the olive oil. Knead the dough until it feels smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. (Time-Saving Tip: Skip this step and use a pre-made store-bought pizza dough ball or crust!)
2. Simmer Up Your Sauce (or Use a Jar!):
If making sauce from scratch: In a small saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it gently simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. (Time-Saving Tip: Simply open a jar of your favorite low-sugar pizza sauce!)
3. Get Ready to Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour your work surface and have a baking sheet ready.
4. Shape Your Love-Filled Pizzas:
Once your dough is ready (risen or unrolled), gently roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Grab your heart-shaped cookie cutters and press them into the dough to create adorable mini heart pizzas. Carefully transfer these dough hearts onto your prepared baking sheet.
5. Customize Your Creations:
Now for the fun part! Spread a thin layer of your homemade or store-bought pizza sauce over each heart. Sprinkle with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add your pepperoni (or turkey pepperoni) and any other healthy veggie toppings you love, like finely diced bell peppers or sliced olives.
6. Bake to Cheesy Perfection:
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the crusts are golden brown and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
7. Serve with Big Smiles:
Carefully remove the hot pizzas from the oven. Let them cool for just a minute or two, then serve these delightful Heart-Shaped Mini Pizzas warm. Enjoy this special Valentine's Day treat with your little ones!