Nothing sets the tone for a joyful holiday gathering like a dish that looks as festive as it tastes. That’s exactly what you get with a Holiday Wreath Pizza—a stunning, savory appetizer that doubles as an edible centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting Christmas dinner, a cozy winter brunch, or a potluck with friends, this pizza wreath brings cheer, flavor, and creativity to the table. In this guide, you’ll discover how to make the perfect holiday pizza wreath, what ingredients give it that holiday magic, and step-by-step instructions to create it with ease.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Christmas pinwheels recipe for another festive finger food idea.
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Why Holiday Wreath Pizza Is a Must-Have on Your Holiday Menu
A festive centerpiece that’s fun and edible
The holiday wreath pizza isn’t just food—it’s a conversation piece. Its round wreath shape, colorful toppings, and cheese-stuffed crust mimic a traditional Christmas wreath, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any holiday buffet or dinner table. Beyond its looks, it brings family and friends together around a dish that’s warm, comforting, and easy to share.
Kid-friendly and adult-approved appetizer
Let’s face it—holiday recipes can get overly complicated. That’s why this pizza wreath is such a hit with all ages. Using refrigerated pizza dough and familiar ingredients like mozzarella, pasta sauce, and bell peppers, it appeals to picky eaters while still letting you dress it up with gourmet toppings like arugula or spiced salami. Kids love the cheesy stuffed crust, while adults appreciate the depth of flavor and elegant presentation.
Perfect for holiday potlucks, parties, and brunches
From Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day brunch, the holiday pizza wreath fits just about any occasion. It’s easy to transport, quick to bake, and a crowd-pleaser no matter where it’s served. You can even prep it ahead and bake it just before serving, saving you time and kitchen chaos.
Check out our holiday festive brie with honey and nuts to complement your pizza wreath at your next gathering.
Ingredients to Make the Perfect Holiday Wreath Pizza
Essential base ingredients you’ll need
To recreate the magic of this festive dish, gather these staples:
- 1 can (13.8 oz) Pillsbury™ Classic Crust Pizza Dough
- 8–9 mozzarella cheese sticks (for the stuffed crust)
- 1 jar (25 oz) pasta or pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
These basic items form the crispy, melty, flavor-packed foundation of your wreath.
Recommended toppings for color and flavor
It wouldn’t be a holiday wreath without red and green! Here are the star toppings:
- 2 red bell peppers (one diced, one for garnish)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh baby arugula
- 2 oz thinly sliced spiced salami
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
These toppings not only enhance the flavor profile with sweetness, spice, and zest but also offer that traditional holiday color scheme.
Don’t miss our gingerbread latte cupcakes for a festive dessert pairing!
Creative garnish ideas to enhance presentation
Finish your pizza wreath with flair using:
- A bow made from red bell pepper strips
- A sprinkle of arugula and Parmesan
- Dipping sauces on the side like balsamic glaze, ranch, or garlic butter
These touches transform a simple pizza into a holiday showstopper.
Discover great ideas like this cranberry brie filo cracker appetizer to round out your holiday snack table.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Assemble and Bake Your Pizza Wreath
Preparing the dough and shaping the wreath
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Roll the dough into a ball, then out into a large circle. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes to prevent shrinking. This rest time ensures easier handling and a fluffier crust.
Stuffing with cheese and cutting the center
Slice each mozzarella stick lengthwise and place them around the edge of the dough. Roll the edges over the cheese and pinch to seal—hello, stuffed crust! Use a 4.5-inch cookie cutter (or sharp knife) to cut a circle from the center of the dough to form the wreath shape. Use leftover dough to patch any thin spots.
Looking for a cozy winter side? Don’t miss our roasted vegetable winter salad.
Baking, decorating, and serving with style
Spread your pizza sauce evenly across the surface. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella, followed by arugula, diced bell peppers, and salami slices. Add more cheese on top for that bubbly finish. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with fresh arugula, Parmesan, and place the pepper bow on top.
Serve it warm with a trio of dipping sauces—your guests will thank you!
Tips to Customize Your Holiday Pizza Wreath
Vegetarian and meat-lover options
The beauty of the Holiday Wreath Pizza is its flexibility. Hosting vegetarians? Simply skip the salami and go heavy on vibrant veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, olives, or even artichoke hearts. Want to impress meat lovers? Add thinly sliced pepperoni, crumbled sausage, or prosciutto for a savory twist.
You can even create a half-and-half wreath to satisfy different palates in one dish—ideal for family dinners and group events.
Sauce alternatives and flavor profiles
While classic pizza sauce gives a traditional base, switching up your sauce can create bold new flavors. Try:
- Pesto for a herby, green undertone
- Alfredo sauce for a creamy base
- Spicy arrabbiata for a kick of heat
Layer your sauce beneath the cheese and toppings for even distribution. And don’t forget a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze after baking for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Check out our rosemary garlic mashed potatoes for another flavorful holiday side that pairs beautifully with your pizza wreath.
Make-ahead and freezing tips for busy hosts
Need to get ahead of your holiday prep? You can prepare the wreath a day in advance. Assemble everything (except garnishes), wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pop it into the oven and add fresh toppings post-bake.
Want to freeze it? Partially bake the crust with cheese inside for about 10 minutes, let it cool, then wrap and freeze. On the day of your event, add toppings and finish baking. It’s a huge time-saver.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Pizza Wreath
Overstuffing or undercooking the crust
One of the most common issues? Going overboard with fillings. While it’s tempting to load the dough with cheese, it can result in soggy or unevenly cooked crust. Stick to a moderate amount and make sure to seal the edges well. If the crust seems doughy after baking, tent it with foil and bake an extra 5–7 minutes.
Choosing toppings that don’t bake evenly
Not all toppings bake the same. Delicate greens like arugula should be added at the end to keep them fresh and bright. Meanwhile, watery toppings like mushrooms or tomatoes should be pre-cooked or patted dry to avoid making the crust soggy.
Discover great ideas like this creamy roasted garlic potato soup to serve alongside your pizza wreath.
Skipping the center cut or bow garnish
That signature wreath shape isn’t optional—it’s what gives this dish its holiday charm. Make sure to cut the center out cleanly and reuse the dough to patch any thin areas. And don’t skip the red bell pepper bow! It adds a pop of color and makes your pizza truly Instagram-worthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Wreath Pizza
Can I make this pizza wreath ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prep and refrigerate the assembled (unbaked) wreath up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and keep it chilled. Bake just before serving, and garnish with fresh ingredients post-bake for the best flavor and presentation.
How do I store leftovers properly?
Wrap any leftover slices in foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain a crispy crust. Avoid the microwave, which can make it soggy.
Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?
Yes! Homemade dough works wonderfully if you have the time. Just ensure it’s rolled thin enough to hold the shape and thick enough to wrap around the cheese. Allow time for resting and rising if using fresh dough to prevent shrinkage during baking.
Don’t miss our frosted coffee brownies for a perfect dessert to follow your savory masterpiece.
Final Thoughts on Serving Holiday Wreath Pizza
Why it’s a holiday favorite year after year
The Holiday Wreath Pizza brings together everything we love about holiday cooking—flavor, festivity, and fun. It’s not just food; it’s a showpiece that invites conversation, sharing, and celebration. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just spicing up your family night before Christmas, this festive pizza recipe delivers every time.
Pairing suggestions with sides and dips
Serve your pizza wreath with a variety of dips—ranch, balsamic reduction, spicy marinara—or a side of fresh salad. Want to go all out? Pair it with a light soup like our creamy mushroom soup or holiday drinks like mulled cider. And for dessert, a sweet treat like our chocolate cherry brownies seals the meal with a smile.
Check out more party-ready appetizers and Christmas-worthy bites on our blog.
PrintHoliday Wreath Pizza
This Holiday Wreath Pizza is a festive, cheese-stuffed appetizer shaped like a Christmas wreath. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday dinners, it’s made with refrigerated pizza dough, red and green toppings, and served with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25–30 mins
- Total Time: 35–45 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 can (13.8 oz) Pillsbury™ Classic Crust Pizza Dough
- 8–9 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 jar (25 oz) pasta or pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups baby arugula
- 2 red bell peppers (1 diced, 1 sliced for garnish)
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 oz spiced salami, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Sauces for serving (ranch, balsamic vinegar, extra pizza sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Unroll the pizza dough, shape into a ball, and let rest for 5 minutes. Then roll into a large circle.
- Slice mozzarella sticks in half lengthwise and place around the edge of the dough. Roll the edges over the cheese and pinch to seal.
- Cut a 4.5-inch circle from the center of the dough to form a wreath. Use leftover dough to patch thin areas.
- Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then top with arugula, diced peppers, and salami slices.
- Add a little more cheese on top and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- While baking, cut remaining red pepper into strips and shape into a bow.
- After baking, garnish with fresh arugula, Parmesan, and place the red pepper bow at the top. Serve with dipping sauces.
Notes
- Don’t overstuff the crust to ensure even baking.
- Add delicate toppings like arugula after baking to keep them fresh.
- You can prep the wreath a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Make a half-vegetarian, half-meat wreath for mixed dietary preferences.
- Try using pesto or Alfredo sauce for a unique twist.
