Serves

This over-the-top recipe was created by J.M. Hirsch of the Associated Press.

INGREDIENTS

3 tablespoons butter, softened

3 tablespoons granulated maple sugar

One 20-ounce ball prepared pizza dough, room temperature

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

12 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled

One 8-ounce ball fresh mozzarella, sliced

INSTRUCTIONS

Heat the oven to 500 degrees. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.

In a small bowl, combine the butter and maple sugar until well blended.

On a lightly floured surface, carefully roll the pizza dough into a 14-inch circle. You may need to use your hands to stretch the dough if rolling alone doesn't work. Transfer the dough to prepared baking sheet.

Sprinkle grated mozzarella evenly over the dough. Top the mozzarella with bacon, distributing it evenly over the pizza. Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella over the bacon. Using 2 spoons, scoop and dollop the maple sugar butter evenly over the pizza. The dollops do not need to be spread; they will melt in the oven.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is puffed and browned and the cheese at the center of the pizza is lightly browned. Let the pizza rest for 5 minutes before slicing.