These Cheesy Pepperoni Bites are little bundles of joy! Packed with gooey cheese and tasty pepperoni, they’re perfect for snacking at any time.
They bake up golden and crusty—just the way we like snacks! I can’t resist popping a few in my mouth while watching a show. They disappear fast!
Making these bites is so simple. Just mix, roll, and bake! I love serving them with marinara sauce for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for creating the base of your bites. If you’re gluten-free, use a 1-to-1 baking flour instead, and they will still come out great!
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that stretchy gooeyness we love, while Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. You could use cheddar or a cheese blend if you prefer a different taste.
Pepperoni: The classic choice! If you have dietary restrictions, consider using turkey pepperoni, or even chopped veggies for a vegetarian version.
Milk: Regular milk works best, but feel free to swap in plant-based milk like almond or oat milk if you want a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Cheesy Pepperoni Bites?
The key to achieving perfect texture is in how you mix your ingredients. After combining the dry and wet mixtures, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to dense bites. You want to mix just until no dry flour is visible, then fold in the cheese and pepperoni carefully.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full to allow room for rising.
- Watch the baking time closely; each oven can vary.
Letting them cool slightly will help firm up the bites before serving. Enjoy with marinara for dipping—it’s the perfect pairing!
Cheesy Pepperoni Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced pepperoni slices
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dried parsley flakes (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of these cheesy pepperoni bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, grease a mini muffin tin or line it with silicone liners to make sure your bites come out easily.
2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Give it a good whisk to blend everything together evenly.
3. Combining Wet Ingredients:
Add the melted butter, milk, and large egg to the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Remember, don’t overmix—some lumps are okay!
4. Adding the Good Stuff:
Now it’s time to fold in the delicious parts! Gently add the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and diced pepperoni to the batter, mixing just until they are distributed throughout.
5. Filling the Muffin Tin:
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. This allows plenty of room for the bites to rise while baking.
6. Baking Time:
Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. They’re ready when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them—every oven is different!
7. Cooling and Garnishing:
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of fresh flavor.
8. Dipping Delight:
These cheesy pepperoni bites are best enjoyed warm! Serve them alongside marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear quickly!
Enjoy these cheesy, savory pepperoni bites as the perfect appetizer or snack at your next gathering!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour! Just keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture. You might want to use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a lighter bite, starting with a 50/50 ratio.
How Can I Store Leftover Cheesy Pepperoni Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Freeze These Bites?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
Get creative! You can substitute the pepperoni with diced veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, crumbled bacon, or even a mix of cheese for different flavors. Just be mindful of the moisture content to avoid sogginess.
