Description
These Cheesy Pepperoni Bites are a perfect savory snack or appetizer, featuring a fluffy, cheesy batter loaded with mozzarella and turkey pepperoni, baked until golden and served with warm pizza sauce infused with fresh basil. A vegetarian option can be made by substituting pepperoni with plant-based pepperoni or additional veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
Batter Ingredients
- 3/4 cup flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1 cup)
- 4 ounces turkey pepperoni, chopped (or vegetarian substitute)
Serving Sauce
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 2 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh basil (divided: 1 Tablespoon in sauce, 1 Tablespoon reserved)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Whisk in the milk and egg until the mixture is smooth.
- Add Cheese: Stir the shredded mozzarella cheese into the batter until evenly incorporated.
- Add Pepperoni and Rest Batter: Fold in the chopped turkey pepperoni or vegetarian substitute. Mix thoroughly and let the batter stand for 7-10 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld and the batter to slightly thicken.
- Fill Muffin Cups and Bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the greased mini muffin cups, filling each cup nearly full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the bites are puffed up and golden brown.
- Warm Sauce and Add Basil: While the bites are baking, microwave the pizza sauce until warm, about 30-45 seconds. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil to infuse flavor.
- Serve: Remove the cheesy pepperoni bites from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with the basil-infused pizza sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with the remaining tablespoon of fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute turkey pepperoni with plant-based pepperoni or diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Allowing the batter to rest can improve texture by hydrating the flour and resting the baking powder’s reaction.
- Use a mini muffin pan to create perfectly sized bite portions ideal for appetizers or snacks.
- Ensure mozzarella is well shredded for better integration into the batter.
- Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic flavor that complements the pizza sauce and bites beautifully.
