Nothing says love quite like pizza, but what if you could take it up a notch? Enter the heart-shaped pizza—a charming twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or any special occasion. Whether you’re ordering from a pizzeria, making one at home, or planning a romantic dinner, this special pizza adds a touch of love to every bite.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore everything about this uniquely shaped pizza—where to find it year-round, how to make the perfect one at home, creative topping ideas, and even how to turn it into the star of a romantic dinner. Plus, we’ll dive into fun social media trends and answer your most common questions. Let’s get started!
The Origins of Heart-Shaped Pizza
How Shaped Foods Became a Culinary Tradition
Shaping food into hearts isn’t a new trend—it dates back centuries. The heart has long been associated with love and romance, making it a popular shape for treats and dishes throughout history. From heart-shaped bread in medieval Europe to intricately designed pastries, people have always enjoyed adding a sentimental touch to their food.
The rise of Valentine’s Day-themed food brought an increase in creatively shaped dishes, including cookies, cakes, and even pasta. It was only a matter of time before pizza—one of the world’s most beloved foods—got the heart-shaped treatment!
When Did Heart-Shaped Pizza First Appear?
The exact origins of heart-shaped pizza remain somewhat unclear, but it gained mainstream popularity in the U.S. during the late 20th century. As pizzerias looked for creative ways to boost sales around Valentine’s Day, shaping pizzas into hearts became a unique and festive marketing strategy.
Large chains like Pizza Hut and Papa John’s began offering them as seasonal specials, and soon, independent pizzerias followed suit. Today, this romantic pizza variation has become a staple in February, with some pizzerias even offering it year-round due to high demand.
Beyond commercial success, the DIY trend of making heart-shaped pizzas at home has surged, especially with social media showcasing homemade creations. Whether store-bought or homemade, this pizza shape is here to stay!
Where to Find the Best Heart-Shaped Pizza
While heart-shaped pizza is most commonly associated with Valentine’s Day, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it any time of the year. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, celebrating an anniversary, or simply want to surprise a loved one, some pizza restaurants and chains offer heart-shaped pizzas all year round. Here’s where you can find one whenever the craving strikes.
Popular Pizza Chains That Offer Special Shapes
Some well-known pizza chains have turned this festive shape into a seasonal favorite, especially in February. However, select locations may offer it year-round upon request.
- Pizza Hut – This chain offers seasonal specialty pizzas, and some locations may accept custom shape requests year-round.
- Papa John’s – Their thin-crust Valentine’s pizza is a popular option, and select stores allow special orders anytime.
- Marco’s – Known for its festive pizza shapes, some locations offer custom orders upon request.
- California Pizza Kitchen – While they typically serve themed pizzas for Valentine’s Day, many locations allow customers to personalize their orders.
- Domino’s (select locations) – Some franchise owners extend holiday-inspired pizzas beyond February, making them available for birthdays and proposals.
If you’re craving heart-shaped pizza outside of the Valentine’s season, call ahead and ask if the restaurant will shape the dough for you. Many independent pizzerias are happy to accommodate special requests.
Hidden Gems: Local Pizzerias with Custom Pizza Options
Sometimes, the best heart-shaped pizza comes from small, locally owned restaurants. These pizzerias often allow customers to personalize their orders and can shape the dough into a heart upon request.
How to Find Local Pizza Shops That Make Heart-Shaped Pizza:
- Search for “custom pizza shapes” or “heart pizza near me” on Google Maps.
- Call ahead and ask if they can make a heart-shaped version.
- Check social media pages of local pizzerias for seasonal promotions.
Ordering Online: How to Get a Custom Pizza Delivered
If you’d rather enjoy a custom-shaped pizza at home, several delivery services work with pizzerias that offer these specialty creations.
- DoorDash, Uber Eats, and GrubHub – These platforms often feature limited-time promotions from major pizza chains offering heart-shaped pizzas.
- Goldbelly – This online marketplace delivers gourmet foods, including heart-shaped pizzas from specialty shops across the U.S.
Romantic Dinner Ideas with Heart-Shaped Pizza
A heart-shaped pizza isn’t just a meal—it’s the perfect way to set the mood for a romantic evening. Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day dinner, celebrating an anniversary, or enjoying a cozy date night, this pizza can be the centerpiece of a memorable meal. Here’s how to turn it into a full romantic dining experience.
How to Set Up the Perfect Romantic Dinner with Heart-Shaped Pizza
A well-planned romantic dinner includes more than just pizza. Here are some ideas to enhance the experience.
- Table Setting & Atmosphere
- Dim the lights and add candles for a cozy ambiance.
- Use a red or white tablecloth to enhance the romantic theme.
- Scatter rose petals or fresh basil leaves for decoration.
- Play soft romantic music in the background.
- What to Serve with Your Heart-Shaped Pizza
- Appetizers: Garlic bread knots, caprese salad, or bruschetta.
- Drinks: Red wine, sparkling juice, or an Italian soda.
- Dessert: Chocolate-covered strawberries, tiramisu, or a mini cheesecake.
Romantic DIY Dinner Night with Heart-Shaped Pizza
Why not make the night even more special by baking the pizza together? Cooking as a couple can be a fun and interactive experience.
DIY Date Night Steps:
- Prepare the ingredients together—knead the dough, spread the sauce, and choose toppings.
- Shape the pizza into a heart and make small adjustments to get the perfect shape.
- While the pizza bakes, enjoy a small appetizer and conversation.
- Serve the pizza on a decorative platter with some extra fresh basil or Parmesan shavings for a gourmet touch.
- End the night with dessert and a classic romantic movie.
Heart-Shaped Pizza for Proposals & Special Moments
Some people have proposed marriage using heart-shaped pizzas. If you’re thinking of popping the question in a creative way, consider:
- Placing the ring box in the middle of the pizza (with caution).
- Writing “Will You Marry Me?” with mozzarella or pepperoni slices.
- Capturing the moment for a memory that lasts forever.
If you’re ordering takeout, ask the restaurant to write a special message on the pizza box like “I Love You” or “Happy Anniversary.”
DIY Heart-Shaped Pizza for Special Occasions
Making a heart-shaped pizza at home is easier than you might think. Whether you’re preparing it for a romantic dinner, a birthday, or a fun family night, shaping the dough into a heart adds a special touch. Plus, homemade pizza allows you to customize toppings, dough thickness, and flavors to your liking.
Ingredients for Homemade Heart-Shaped Pizza
Before starting, gather the essential ingredients:
- Pizza Dough – Store-bought or homemade
- Pizza Sauce – Classic tomato sauce, pesto, or white sauce
- Cheese – Mozzarella, provolone, or your favorite cheese blend
- Toppings – Pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or any preferred ingredients
- Olive Oil – For brushing the crust to get a golden finish
- Flour or Cornmeal – To dust the surface and prevent sticking
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Heart-Shaped Pizza
1. Prepare the Dough
- Let the dough sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes for easier shaping.
- Dust your countertop with flour and roll out the dough into a large circle.
2. Shape the Dough into a Heart
- Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut a small slit at the top center of the circle.
- Gently pull the two sides apart to create the two curves of the heart.
- Pinch the bottom of the circle into a point to form the heart shape.
- Adjust the shape until it looks just right.
3. Add Sauce, Cheese, and Toppings
- Spread an even layer of sauce, leaving about half an inch for the crust.
- Add a generous amount of cheese, followed by your favorite toppings.
- For a decorative touch, cut pepperoni into small hearts.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
5. Finishing Touches
- Brush the crust with olive oil for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle fresh basil or red pepper flakes for added taste.
Creative Ways to Use Heart-Shaped Pizza for Special Occasions
- Birthdays – Personalize the toppings with the birthday person’s favorites.
- Anniversaries – Write a sweet message using cheese or toppings.
- Valentine’s Day – Serve with chocolate-dipped strawberries for a full romantic meal.
- Family Nights – Let kids decorate their own mini heart-shaped pizzas.
For more special occasion recipes, check out our other fun and creative pizza ideas.
Creative Pizza Ideas for Every Occasion
A heart-shaped pizza doesn’t have to be traditional. You can experiment with different flavors, crusts, and styles to match your preferences.
Flavor Combinations That Elevate the Classic Recipe
- Margherita Delight – Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and basil.
- BBQ Chicken – BBQ sauce base, grilled chicken, red onions, and cilantro.
- Mediterranean Twist – Pesto base, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
- Spicy Pepperoni – Tomato sauce, mozzarella, jalapeños, and spicy pepperoni.
Dietary-Friendly Options: Gluten-Free and Vegan Pizzas
- Gluten-Free Crust – Use gluten-free pizza dough or a cauliflower crust.
- Vegan Pizza – Substitute regular cheese with dairy-free alternatives and add roasted vegetables.
- Low-Carb Option – Make a thin-crust or keto-friendly almond flour dough.
Making Mini Heart Pizzas for Kids and Family Events
If you’re making pizza for kids, try creating mini versions in fun shapes. Let them choose their own toppings for an interactive cooking experience. You can also turn them into stuffed pizza pockets or bite-sized calzones for an extra twist.
Sweet Dessert Pizzas for a Fun Twist
For a twist, make a dessert pizza using:
- Sugar cookie or cinnamon roll dough as the crust.
- Nutella or cream cheese frosting as the base.
- Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chocolate chips as toppings.
Heart-shaped pizza is more than just a fun shape—it’s a great way to bring creativity to your meals and make any occasion special.
Coming up next: Heart-shaped pizza in social media and pop culture.
Heart-Shaped Pizza in Pop Culture and Social Media
This uniquely shaped pizza has become a social media sensation, especially around Valentine’s Day. From food bloggers to major restaurant chains, everyone loves sharing photos and videos of this creative twist on a classic favorite. The trend continues to grow, making it a true symbol of love and celebration.
Why This Pizza Trend Is So Popular Online
Every February, platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest explode with images and videos featuring heart-shaped pizzas. Some of the most popular trends include:
- DIY Pizza Challenges – Home cooks and food influencers challenge their followers to shape, decorate, and bake their own custom pizzas.
- Valentine’s Day Giveaways – Many pizza restaurants run special promotions, offering free or discounted themed pizzas for couples who share their meals online.
- Customized Message Pizzas – People write messages like “I Love You” or “Marry Me?” using pepperoni slices, cheese, or sauce.
- Mini Heart Bites – A bite-sized twist on the trend, where people create small, fun-shaped pizzas for party snacks or romantic appetizers.
TV Shows, Movies, and Ads That Featured It
Pizza has always been a pop culture favorite, and heart-shaped pizza is no exception. Many romantic comedies and TV shows have featured heart-shaped pizzas as part of Valentine’s Day celebrations or special date nights. Even in real life, celebrities have been spotted enjoying or gifting heart-shaped pizzas as a fun and romantic gesture.
Major pizza brands also embrace pop culture by featuring heart-shaped pizzas in their commercials and Super Bowl ads, reinforcing their appeal as a must-have for special occasions.
Social Media Challenges That Keep the Trend Alive
The unique look of this festive pizza makes it perfect for sharing online. Its bright colors, gooey cheese, and distinctive shape instantly grab attention. Whether homemade or ordered from a restaurant, a well-presented creation is sure to get plenty of likes and shares.
If you want your heart-shaped pizza to go viral, try these tips:
- Use good lighting and a top-down shot to showcase the shape.
- Add romantic elements like candles, wine glasses, or a red napkin.
- Post at the right time—Valentine’s season is ideal, but anniversaries and engagements work too.
- Use trending hashtags like #HeartShapedPizza, #ValentinesPizza, and #PizzaLove to reach a wider audience.
Heart-shaped pizza isn’t just food—it’s a statement. Whether for romance, social media, or just a fun twist on dinner, it’s here to stay.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heart-Shaped Pizza
Heart-shaped pizza is a fun and creative way to enjoy pizza, but many people have questions about how to order, customize, and make it at home. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
Domino’s does not offer heart-shaped pizza as a standard menu item, but some franchise locations may make it available during Valentine’s Day or upon special request. It’s best to check with your local Domino’s or order a custom-shaped pizza from a nearby pizzeria.
Several major pizza chains offer heart-shaped pizza, especially around Valentine’s Day. Some of the most popular companies that serve it include:
Pizza Hut – Offers limited-time heart-shaped pizzas during February.
Papa John’s – Frequently releases a thin-crust heart pizza for Valentine’s Day.
Marco’s Pizza – Provides heart-shaped pizzas as part of seasonal promotions.
Local Pizzerias – Many independent pizza shops will make custom heart-shaped pizzas year-round upon request.
Shaping a pizza into a heart is easy with a few simple steps:
Roll out the dough into a large circle.
Make a small cut in the center of the top edge and gently pull apart to form the heart curves.
Pinch the bottom to create a pointed tip.
Adjust as needed to refine the shape before adding toppings.
Bake and enjoy!
Yes, Papa John’s releases a heart-shaped pizza as a limited-time item for Valentine’s Day. It typically comes as a thin-crust, one-topping pizza and is delivered uncut to preserve the shape. Availability varies by location, so checking with your local Papa John’s is recommended.
This completes the ultimate guide to heart-shaped pizza. From where to buy it, how to make it, and fun ways to enjoy it, this pizza is more than just food—it’s a way to bring joy to every occasion. If you’re inspired to try making your own, follow our step-by-step guide and share your creations. Happy pizza-making!
Conclusion
Heart-shaped pizza is more than just a fun shape—it’s a way to turn an ordinary meal into something special. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, a birthday, or just a cozy night in, this unique pizza brings warmth and creativity to any occasion. From major pizza chains to local pizzerias, there are plenty of ways to get your hands on one, and if you prefer a homemade touch, shaping your own heart-shaped pizza is easier than you think.
This guide has explored where to find this special pizza year-round, how to make it from scratch, and how to create a romantic dining experience. But there are even more creative ways to enjoy it:
- Hosting a themed pizza night with friends or family where everyone makes their own mini heart-shaped pizza.
- Adding it to a special occasion menu—it’s a great way to surprise a loved one on their birthday or a proposal night.
- Making a dessert version with Nutella, strawberries, and powdered sugar for a sweet twist.
- Sharing it on social media—the heart shape makes it perfect for a fun, shareable food moment.
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, heart-shaped pizza is a simple way to bring joy and connection to any meal. If you haven’t tried making one yet, now is the perfect time. Grab your ingredients, get creative with toppings, and enjoy a slice of love!