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Cheesy pizza cupcakes make for a delightful snack that comes together quickly and satisfies those pizza cravings without the fuss of making a full pie. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, kids’ lunches, or whenever you want a fun and tasty snack on hand.
I first made these when craving a quick snack and was surprised how much my whole family loved them. Now they are a regular in our snack rotation especially for movie nights.
Ingredients
- Flour: 1 cup for a soft but structured base choose all-purpose flour for the best texture
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon to help the cupcakes rise and become fluffy
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon to enhance all the flavors balancing the savory notes
- Milk: 1/2 cup adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients creating a tender crumb use whole milk for richness or oat milk for a dairy-free option
- Pizza sauce: 1/4 cup provides the classic pizza flavor pick a good quality sauce or homemade for best taste
- Shredded mozzarella: 1/2 cup adds the melty cheesy goodness opt for fresh mozzarella if you want a creamier texture
- Pepperoni slices: 1/4 cup bring a savory and slightly spicy punch choose your favorite style or substitute with cooked sausage or mushrooms for variety
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven temperature to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to fully preheat. This ensures even cooking from the moment the cupcakes go in.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk them gently to distribute everything evenly and avoid lumps.
- Add the Milk:
- Pour in the milk gradually while stirring to form a smooth batter. Make sure there are no dry flour pockets left for a consistent texture.
- Fill the Muffin Cups:
- Spoon the batter into muffin tins filling each about halfway. This leaves room for the toppings and allows the batter to rise without overflowing.
- Add the Toppings:
- Top each cupcake with a spoonful of pizza sauce followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and a few slices of pepperoni. Be sure not to overload so that the toppings melt nicely.
- Bake the Cupcakes:
- Place the muffin tin in the center rack of your oven and bake for 15 minutes. The cupcakes should be golden brown on top and cooked through.
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Mozzarella is my favorite part of these cupcakes because nothing beats that gooey cheesy pull. One family memory that stands out is making these with kids on a lazy Sunday afternoon. They loved picking their own toppings and the joy on their faces eating fresh cupcakes always makes me smile.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until the cheese is melty again. To freeze, wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw before reheating.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have pepperoni use sliced cooked sausage, diced ham, or roasted veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. For the cheese, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile. Milk can be swapped for any plant-based milk but avoid those with strong flavors that might overpower the recipe.
Serving suggestions
These pizza cupcakes are great served with a simple side salad or alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy snack or light meal. They also work perfectly as finger food at casual get-togethers with a dipping cup of extra pizza sauce or ranch dressing.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for these cupcakes?
Shredded mozzarella is ideal for a melty, mild flavor that complements the sauce and pepperoni perfectly.
- → Can I add vegetables to the batter?
Absolutely, diced peppers or olives can be mixed in or used as a topping for extra freshness and flavor.
- → What is the best way to prevent soggy bottoms?
Make sure to preheat the oven fully and fill muffin cups only halfway before topping to ensure even baking and a firm base.
- → How can I make these suitable for a vegan diet?
Substitute dairy milk with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese and pepperoni-style toppings.
- → What size muffin tins should I use for bite-sized portions?
Mini muffin tins are perfect for creating bite-sized cupcakes that are easy to serve and enjoy as snacks.