If you’re a fan of bite-sized snacks that pack all the flavors of pizza, these pizza bites are the ultimate treat. Combining the best of two techniques—pepperoni cups and muffin-style batter fillings—this recipe creates a snack that’s crispy, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavors. Customize the fillings to match your taste and serve them warm with marinara dipping sauce for an appetizer that’s sure to impress. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them a great make-ahead option for gatherings or game nights.
Ingredients for Pizza Bites
Plan/Purchase:
- 24 large pepperoni slices
For the Spice Mix (makes extra):
- 1 1/2 teaspoons (3 g) dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) dried marjoram
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) dried sage
For the Pizza Batter:
- 3/4 cup (90 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) baking powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) premade spice mix (or adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) kosher salt
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated mozzarella cheese
Optional:
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pizza Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix
Combine all the spices in a small bowl. This blend will create more than you need for one batch, but it’s a versatile Italian seasoning that can be stored for future use. Alternatively, use a store-bought Italian spice mix if preferred.
Step 2: Choose the Right Pepperoni
For this recipe, use sandwich-style pepperoni slices that are about 3 inches (7.6 cm) in diameter—twice the size of regular pepperoni. This size works perfectly to form the cups for the pizza bites.
Step 3: Set Up the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a rack in the bottom position. Prepare a 24-cup mini muffin tin.
Step 4: Prepare the Pepperoni Cups
Make four small cuts into each pepperoni slice—one on the left, right, top, and bottom, cutting about 1/2 inch (1.2 cm) deep. Place the slices into the muffin tin cups, allowing the cuts to overlap and form a sturdy wall for the filling.
Chef’s Note: If your pepperoni slices are thin, consider layering two slices per cup for added strength.
Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spice mix, salt, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Step 6: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the milk and egg.
Step 7: Make the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a fork or wooden spoon until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
Step 8: Fill the Pepperoni Cups
Spoon about 1 1/2 teaspoons (8 ml) of batter into each pepperoni cup.
Step 9: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella cheese on top of each filled cup.
Step 10: Bake the Pizza Bites
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown in spots.
Presentation and Serving
Serve these pizza bites warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The crispy pepperoni base, cheesy topping, and savory batter filling make them absolutely irresistible.
These pizza bites are an appetizer game-changer, combining the bold flavors of pepperoni, gooey cheese, and Italian herbs into a compact, delicious snack. They’re easy to customize, simple to make, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can freeze them and reheat for later, making them ideal for quick snacks or impromptu gatherings. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with marinara sauce and watch them disappear!
