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Christmas Pizza Bites Recipe

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4.9 from 139 reviews

These Christmas Pizza Bites are a festive and delicious appetizer featuring cheesy, pepperoni-filled dough balls shaped into a holiday-themed design. Perfect for holiday parties, they are easy to make with refrigerated pizza dough and topped with flavorful seasonings and melted butter for a golden, savory treat.

Ingredients

Pizza Bites

  • 2 tubes refrigerated pizza dough
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup mini pepperoni or chopped salami
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Optional Toppings

  • Chopped fresh basil
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
  • Sliced olives
  • Sliced bell peppers

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare Dough Squares: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into small squares approximately 2×2 inches in size, ensuring uniformity for even baking.
  3. Add Fillings: Place a small pinch of shredded mozzarella and a few pieces of mini pepperoni or your choice of toppings in the center of each dough square.
  4. Form Bites: Fold the corners of each square towards the center and pinch firmly to seal, shaping each into a small dough ball to encase the filling.
  5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the sealed dough balls creatively on the baking sheet in a Christmas tree or wreath shape for a festive presentation.
  6. Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the arranged bites with the beaten egg wash to help them develop a beautiful golden color during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
  7. Add Finishing Touches: Immediately after baking, brush the hot pizza bites with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan, and any optional herbs or spices to enhance flavor.
  8. Serve: Serve the Christmas Pizza Bites warm paired with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping. Enjoy this festive and savory appetizer fresh from the oven.

Notes

  • Ensure the dough squares are sealed tightly to prevent cheese and toppings from leaking during baking.
  • You can customize the fillings with vegetarian options or different meats based on preference.
  • Using an egg wash helps achieve a beautiful golden sheen on the pizza bites.
  • Arrange the bites closely but not touching, to allow even heat circulation and baking.
  • Serve immediately for best taste and texture; reheating may cause the dough to become less crisp.