These Cheesy Pepperoni Bites are delicious little treats filled with gooey cheese and pepperoni! Perfect for parties or a fun snack, they’re easy to make and taste amazing.
I love popping these in my mouth during movie night. It’s like having pizza in bite-sized form! Just be ready to make a few extra because they disappear fast! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: I usually go for low-moisture mozzarella because it melts beautifully and gives that classic cheese pull! If you’re in a pinch, you can replace it with provolone or even a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. However, you can swap it for mild cheddar or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Mix and match according to your taste!
Pasta Flour: All-purpose flour works well, but if you want a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni is fun, but feel free to use turkey pepperoni or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Chopped veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can add a tasty twist!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Cheesy Texture?
To get that ideal cheesy texture, avoid overmixing once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. This keeps the bites light and fluffy. Also, make sure your cheeses are fresh and shredded right before using for better melt and flavor.
- Pre-grate your cheese to ensure it melts easily in the bites.
- Filling the muffin tin 3/4 full allows for rising without overflowing.
- Watch closely as they bake! They should be golden brown on top and puffed up.
Cheesy Pepperoni Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bites:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni cut smaller)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried oregano, basil, parsley)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Non-stick spray or oil for muffin tin
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 18 minutes to bake, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or party food!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab your mini muffin tin and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will help distribute all the flavors evenly in your bites.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk until they are well combined. This will be the mixture that binds everything together.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Now, slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix them together until just combined—don’t overmix; you want the batter to be light!
5. Add Cheese and Pepperoni:
Fold in the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese along with most of the mini pepperoni slices. Save a few slices to place on top. This way, each bite is loaded with cheesy goodness!
6. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. This will allow them room to puff up while baking.
7. Top with Pepperoni:
Press a few of the reserved pepperoni slices on top of each bite for an extra pop of flavor and a nice presentation.
8. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the bites are puffy and golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them—the last few minutes are crucial!
9. Cool and Remove:
Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, gently remove the cheesy pepperoni bites from the tin.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color. Serve them warm and enjoy the delicious cheesy goodness! These bites are perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun snack.
Happy snacking! 🍕
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, you can experiment with your favorites. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, or you could use gouda for a richer flavor. Just make sure to shred them for easy melting!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crispy texture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter and fill the muffin tin, then cover and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if you’re using chilled batter.
What Can I Use Instead of Mini Pepperoni?
If you don’t have mini pepperoni, you can chop regular pepperoni into smaller pieces or use cooked meats like crumbled sausage or diced ham. For a vegetarian option, consider adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives!