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Cheesy Mini Pizza Bites

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These cheesy mini pizza bites feature a crispy golden crust and a gooey cheese blend, perfect for quick snacks or party appetizers. Simple to make with pantry staples, they deliver a comforting and delicious bite every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g), sifted
  • 1 tsp active dry yeast (3 g), proofed in warm water
  • ¾ cup warm water (180 ml), about 110°F (43°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1 tsp granulated sugar (5 g)
  • ½ tsp salt (3 g)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (170 g), part-skim preferred
  • ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (55 g)
  • ½ cup mini pepperoni slices (optional)
  • ½ cup pizza sauce (120 ml), homemade or store-bought
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (1 g)
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes, a pinch (optional)
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (10 g, optional)

Instructions

  1. Proof the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (¾ cup), sugar (1 tsp), and active dry yeast (1 tsp). Stir gently and let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine sifted flour (2 cups) and salt (½ tsp). Add the proofed yeast mixture and olive oil (2 tbsp). Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with dough hook on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
  4. First rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place pizza stone in oven if using.
  6. Shape the dough: Punch down dough and roll out on floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch diameter circles using a cutter or glass.
  7. Assemble pizza bites: Place dough circles on parchment-lined baking sheets. Spread thin layer of pizza sauce on each, sprinkle with mozzarella (about 1 tbsp) and sharp cheddar (1 tsp), add pepperoni slices if using, and sprinkle dried oregano.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until crust is golden and cheese bubbles with slight browning. Watch closely after 10 minutes to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with torn fresh basil and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Use Fleischmann’s yeast for best rise. Preheat oven fully and use a pizza stone or hot baking sheet for crispier crust. Avoid thick layers of toppings to keep crust crispy. Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight. Freeze assembled bites on tray before baking from frozen, adding extra baking time. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour. For lactose intolerance, use dairy-free cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini pizza bites, cheesy snack, crispy crust, easy appetizer, party food, quick snack, homemade pizza bites

Find it online: https://recipebelle.com/cheesy-mini-pizza-bites-recipe-easy-crispy-golden-crust-snack-ideas/