Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Pizza Puffs are perfect bite-sized appetizers featuring a fluffy blend of Italian-seasoned batter, gooey mozzarella, and savory pepperoni. Baked to golden perfection in a mini muffin tin, these puffs are served warm with marinara sauce for dipping, making them an ideal snack for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup whole milk
Cheese & Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni or chopped pepperoni
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
For Serving
- Marinara or pizza sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the puffs.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. This combination forms the flavorful base of the batter.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the large egg with the whole milk until well combined, creating a smooth mixture for the batter.
- Form the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the puffs light and fluffy.
- Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped or mini pepperoni, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs if desired, evenly distributing the fillings throughout the batter.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld and the baking powder to activate, which helps the puffs rise.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin tin cups, filling each almost to the top for full, puffed bites.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the puffs are puffed up and golden brown on top.
- Cool and Serve: Let the puffs cool slightly in the tin before carefully removing them. Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for an irresistible dipping experience.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey pepperoni or diced vegetables for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Add a pinch of salt if your pepperoni is low in sodium to enhance the flavor.
- These puffs freeze well—reheat them in the oven or air fryer to enjoy later.