Pizza continues to be one of the most loved dishes around the globe, with countless variations and toppings to satisfy every palate. In 2025, pizza toppings have taken a creative turn, with some truly unusual and unexpected ingredients making their way onto pies. If you’re looking to break free from the traditional pepperoni and cheese, here are 10 of the weirdest pizza toppings trending this year.
One topping that has been making waves is the combination of edible flowers and cheese. Think of vibrant petals like marigolds, violets, or even lavender, paired with creamy ricotta or goat cheese. This topping isn’t just about taste; it brings an elegant touch to the pizza, adding both visual appeal and a hint of floral flavor.
Next on the list is a dessert-inspired pizza topping: peanut butter and jelly. While this might sound like something straight out of a childhood snack, the combination of sweet, creamy peanut butter and tangy fruit preserves on a thin crust creates an exciting balance between sweet and savory. Add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for extra crunch and texture.
Another trending topping is fried chicken on pizza. It’s a heartier option that brings the best of both worlds together. The crispy, juicy fried chicken, often served with a drizzle of hot sauce or honey, contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese and dough. This fusion of comfort foods has quickly become a favorite for those craving something indulgent and filling.
Sushi pizza is an adventurous twist for seafood lovers. It’s typically made with a crispy rice base topped with fresh sashimi, avocado, and a dollop of wasabi or soy sauce. The crunchy rice crust gives the pizza a unique texture, while the fresh fish and tangy sauces add a new level of flavor. It's an unconventional but surprisingly delicious take on pizza.
For the more daring, cricket flour is making its way into pizza toppings. As sustainable food sources gain popularity, insects like crickets are being used as a protein-rich topping. Cricket flour is often mixed into dough or sprinkled on top as a crunchy, nutty topping that’s both eco-friendly and high in protein. It’s a great way to embrace the future of food while enjoying a delicious pie.
An even more outlandish topping making the rounds is the use of liquid nitrogen to freeze different ingredients, creating an intriguing effect. For example, liquid nitrogen can be used to freeze a mixture of fruits or even ice cream, which is then added to the pizza for a surprising cold burst. This unique culinary experience combines science and food for a fun, memorable meal.
Vegan cheese is no longer a novelty—it’s now a mainstream topping. However, in 2025, the trend has evolved to include vegan cheese made from unexpected ingredients, like cauliflower or coconut. These plant-based alternatives create a creamier texture and often feature a more complex, tangy flavor than traditional vegan cheeses.
Then there’s the charred pineapple topping, which takes the classic sweet and savory combo to the next level. Pineapple slices are caramelized on the grill, giving them a smoky, slightly bitter taste that contrasts well with the salty bacon or prosciutto often paired with it. This topping adds a depth of flavor that makes pineapple on pizza feel sophisticated and refined.
Next, we have a savory dessert-inspired topping: balsamic glaze and strawberries. It might sound odd at first, but when paired with creamy mozzarella and fresh basil, the tangy-sweet balsamic glaze and ripe strawberries create an unexpected harmony of flavors. This topping is perfect for those who love sweet-and-savory combinations but want something a little more refined.
Lastly, pickled vegetables are gaining popularity as a unique pizza topping. From pickled onions to cucumbers or even kimchi, the tangy, fermented flavors of pickled vegetables cut through the richness of cheese and sauce, adding a refreshing crunch and acidity. These toppings add complexity to the flavor profile, making the pizza taste fresher and more vibrant.
These 10 weird pizza toppings are just the beginning of what could be a year of culinary experimentation. As more chefs push the boundaries of pizza-making, who knows what unexpected ingredients will emerge next? For now, whether you’re ready to try fried chicken pizza or dive into a sushi-inspired slice, these toppings are sure to make your pizza experience in 2025 unlike any other.
