Name: Mini Pizza Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups unbleached all purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornmeal; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup pizza sauce; 1 1/4 cup skim milk; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, Pizza Cheese Blend, or Italian Cheese Blend (divided); 1/2 cup mini pepperonis (or regular pepperoni, diced); 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, minced; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1 cup bell pepper, seeded and diced

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a snack that bursts with the irresistible flavors of your favorite pizza, but in a fun, bite-sized form, look no further than these Mini Pizza Muffins. Picture soft, fluffy muffins loaded with gooey mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and a colorful medley of fresh veggies and pepperoni, all baked to golden perfection. These delightful Mini Pizza Muffins are perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or whenever you crave a comforting, portable treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Mini Pizza Muffins Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a star role, coming together to create the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that classic pizza appeal. From the slightly crunchy cornmeal to the fresh herbs that brighten up each bite, these essentials are what make the Mini Pizza Muffins so special.

Unbleached all-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups): The sturdy base for a tender yet hearty muffin structure.
Cornmeal (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle crunch and a lovely golden hue to the muffins.
Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the muffins rise light and fluffy.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Gives an extra boost to the leavening process for perfect texture.
Italian seasoning (1 1/2 tablespoons): Brings the unmistakable herbs of Italy right into every bite.
Coarse salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the savory flavors and balances the richness.
Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and add to the muffin’s moist, tender crumb.
Pizza sauce (1/4 cup): Infuses the batter with that classic tangy tomato pizza goodness.
Skim milk (1 1/4 cups): Keeps the muffins moist without weighing them down.
Mozzarella cheese, or pizza/Italian blend (2 cups shredded): Melts beautifully for that signature cheesy pull.
Mini pepperonis (1/2 cup): Adds a spicy, savory punch in every bite—can substitute diced regular pepperoni.
Fresh spinach (1 cup, roughly chopped): Offers a vibrant pop of color and nutrients.
Fresh basil (1 tablespoon, minced): A fragrant herb that elevates the flavor profile brilliantly.
Black olives (1/2 cup, sliced): Bring a salty, slightly briny contrast that pairs perfectly with the rich cheese.
Bell pepper (1 cup, diced): Adds crunch and a touch of natural sweetness to balance the savoriness.

How to Make Mini Pizza Muffins

Step 1: Preparing Your Workspace and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 375˚F and greasing a mini muffin pan. This preparation ensures your muffins come out easily and with perfectly golden edges. Having all your ingredients measured and ready makes the mixing process swift and smooth.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, Italian seasoning, and coarse salt. This blend of dry ingredients is crucial to achieving that wonderful balance of fluffiness and slight crunch. Mix well so each component is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Whisking the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, pizza sauce, and skim milk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. The pizza sauce adds that classic tomato tang right into the batter, making every bite unmistakably flavorful.

Step 4: Combining Cheese, Veggies, and Pepperoni

Into your wet mixture, stir 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella along with mini pepperonis, spinach, basil, olives, and diced bell pepper. This colorful combo not only packs in robust flavor but also makes these muffins visually appealing and satisfying to eat.

Step 5: Bringing It All Together

Carefully add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined—avoid overmixing to prevent dense muffins. This gentle mixing ensures your Mini Pizza Muffins come out with a soft, airy crumb rather than a heavy, flat texture.

Step 6: Filling the Muffin Pan and Baking

Divide the batter evenly into the greased mini muffin pan. Top each muffin with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese for an irresistibly golden and melty crust. Then pop the pan in the oven on the middle rack for 20 to 25 minutes, until the muffin tops are beautifully golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving

Once baked, let the Mini Pizza Muffins cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes. They’re best enjoyed warm, when the cheese is melty and the flavors are at their peak!

How to Serve Mini Pizza Muffins

Garnishes

Elevate your Mini Pizza Muffins by topping them with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a dab of marinara sauce on the side enhances their pizza authenticity and makes each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

These muffins shine as a snack on their own but pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a bowl of homemade tomato soup. The fresh greens or rich soup provide the perfect contrast to the cheesy, savory muffins, making for a well-rounded meal or entertaining spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or casual gatherings, arrange your Mini Pizza Muffins on a wooden serving board with small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy marinara. You can also stack them on a tiered platter for a crowd-pleasing display that invites guests to grab one (or three) with ease.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Mini Pizza Muffins, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re still delicious cold but taste best when gently reheated to bring back their melty, fresh-from-the-oven charm.

Freezing

These muffins freeze wonderfully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen Mini Pizza Muffins keep their flavor and texture well for up to three months, making them an excellent make-ahead snack.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your frozen or refrigerated Mini Pizza Muffins in a 350˚F oven for about 10 minutes or until warm and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave them briefly, but the oven method best preserves their tender crumb and melty cheese.

FAQs

Can I make Mini Pizza Muffins without pepperoni?

Absolutely! You can easily omit the pepperoni to make a vegetarian version or substitute it with cooked sausage, ham, or even diced mushrooms for a different flavor. The muffins are versatile and delicious no matter what additions you choose.

Are Mini Pizza Muffins good for kids?

They are a big kid-friendly hit! The familiar pizza flavors packed into a fun bite-sized muffin make them perfect for picky eaters, snack time, or lunchboxes. Just be mindful of any spice level if you add extras.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

You can swap in whole wheat flour, but keep in mind it might make the muffins a bit denser and give a nuttier taste. For best results, try a half-and-half mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to keep that tender texture.

How do I prevent the muffins from turning out flat?

Be sure not to overmix the batter—it should be just combined with a few lumps. Overmixing activates the gluten too much and causes the muffins to flatten. Also, don’t open the oven door early during baking, as that can make them sink.

Can I add other vegetables to the Mini Pizza Muffins?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with zucchini, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even jalapeños for some kick. Just make sure to chop veggies finely and avoid adding too much moisture to keep the batter balanced.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Pizza Muffins are truly a joy to make and eat, blending all the best parts of pizza into a perfectly portable snack. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family night, packing them for school lunches, or sharing with friends at a gathering, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite that’s as fun to share as it is to savor!

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Mini Pizza Muffins Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: Noah
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 mini muffins 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Mini Pizza Muffins are bite-sized savory treats perfect for snacks, parties, or lunchboxes. These fluffy, cheesy muffins are loaded with classic pizza flavors like pepperoni, spinach, olives, and bell peppers, all infused with Italian seasoning. They’re easy to make, baked to golden perfection, and delicious served warm.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and set aside.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unbleached all-purpose flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, Italian seasoning, and coarse salt. Stir until all the dry ingredients are well incorporated.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, pizza sauce, and skim milk until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Add Mix-ins: To the wet mixture, add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese, mini pepperonis, roughly chopped spinach, minced basil, sliced black olives, and diced bell pepper. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir together just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the muffins to turn out dense or flat.
Fill Muffin Pan: Evenly divide the batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cup almost to the top. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of each muffin for a cheesy crust.
Bake: Place the muffin pan on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the muffin tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the mini pizza muffins to cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes. These are best served warm to enjoy the melty cheese and soft, savory texture.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to ensure fluffy muffins.
Feel free to customize the mix-ins with your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms or onions.
These muffins can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick snack.
Use a mini muffin pan to get the proper size and cooking time.
Using low-fat cheese and skim milk keeps the recipe lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Snack, Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American