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Cheesy Pepperoni Bites

Cheesy Pepperoni Bites

Cheesy Pepperoni Bites are a flavorful and irresistible snack featuring gooey melted mozzarella cheese and spicy, crispy pepperoni wrapped in a soft, flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect as an appetizer or snack for parties, game nights, or casual meals, these bites deliver comfort and excitement in every mouthful. Easily customizable with various fillings and adaptable for dietary preferences including gluten-free options.

Ingredients

Puff Pastry & Dough

  • Puff pastry sheets (thawed as per package instructions)

Fillings

  • Pepperoni slices (enough for desired bites)
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup)
  • Italian seasoning (1-2 teaspoons)

Toppings

  • Grated Parmesan cheese (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Egg wash (1 beaten egg for brushing)

Optional for Serving

  • Marinara sauce (for dipping)
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or basil (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to the package instructions. Once soft and pliable, gently roll them out on a floured surface until they are slightly larger but still thin enough to wrap around the fillings.
  2. Layer the Ingredients: Place small piles of shredded mozzarella cheese on the pastry, then top each pile with pepperoni slices. Sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning over each pile for added flavor.
  3. Shape the Bites: Cut the puff pastry into squares large enough to fold over the filling. Fold each square over the cheese and pepperoni, pinching the edges firmly to seal the filling inside and prevent leaks during baking.
  4. Apply Egg Wash and Parmesan: Brush each sealed bite with the beaten egg to create a glossy, golden crust once baked. Then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a savory finish.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the prepared bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the bites are puffed up and golden brown. Allow them to cool briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Seal edges tightly: Press pastry edges firmly or crimp with a fork to prevent filling leaks.
  • Don’t overfill: Use moderate cheese and pepperoni quantities to avoid bursting during baking.
  • Use cold pastry: Keep puff pastry chilled until baking to ensure flakiness.
  • Try dipping sauces: Marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli pair well with these bites.
  • Serve warm: For best texture and flavor, enjoy immediately after baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy pepperoni bites, puff pastry snacks, party appetizers, easy finger food, gluten-free snacks, kid-friendly snacks