Copycat Crazy Puffs (Pepperoni Pizza Bites)
These easy finger-food appetizers are perfect for summer parties, especially for kids. These quick baked bites are a summer crowd food favorite that captures all the beloved flavors of pizza in a convenient, poppable form.
Equipment
- Baking Sheets
- Parchment Paper
- Pizza Cutter
Ingredients
Puff Pastry Bites
- 2 sheets puff pastry thawed (approximately 17.3 oz package)
- 1 cup pizza sauce marinara sauce works well too
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz pepperoni slices finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large egg for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- On a lightly floured surface, gently roll each puff pastry sheet to smooth out creases and create a roughly 10×12-inch rectangle. Cut each sheet into 12 equal squares (about 3×3 inches each).
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of pizza sauce in the center of each pastry square. Top with approximately 1 tablespoon of the pepperoni-cheese mixture. Avoid overfilling and leave at least a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the edges of each pastry square with the egg wash. Fold each square diagonally to form a triangle and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal. Poke the top of each triangle once with a fork to create a steam vent.
- Transfer the assembled pizza bites to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through for even browning.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, replace pepperoni with diced bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms.
For make-ahead convenience, you can assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate unbaked.
These bites freeze beautifully! Freeze unbaked assembled bites on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 400°F for 22-25 minutes.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting properties.
Nutrition
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSodium: 220mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 1gCalcium: 8mgIron: 4mg
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