Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously coat a standard 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray to ensure the cupcakes release easily after baking.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean, lightly floured cutting board or work surface. Stretch it out slightly into an even rectangle. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into 12 equal squares.
- Form the Cupcakes: Gently press one square of dough into each cup of the prepared muffin tin. Press the dough down into the bottom and slightly up the sides to create a small cup or bowl shape.
- Brush with Garlic Oil: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and garlic powder. Use a pastry brush to lightly dab the inside edges of each dough cup with the garlic oil for extra flavor.
- Fill the Cupcakes: Spoon about 1 to 2 teaspoons of pizza sauce into the bottom of each dough cup. Top the sauce with a generous pinch of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by 4 to 5 mini pepperoni slices. Sprinkle the tops evenly with the dried Italian seasoning.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are deep golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Notes
Dough Alternatives: If you cannot find canned pizza dough, a tube of refrigerated crescent roll dough (specifically the seamless dough sheets) works beautifully and provides a slightly sweeter, flakier crust.
Customizable Fillings: Treat these just like a regular pizza! You can easily swap the pepperoni for cooked crumbled sausage, finely diced bell peppers, black olives, or mushrooms. Just make sure any vegetable additions are finely chopped so they fit into the cups.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftover pizza cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat and keep the crust crispy, place them in a 350°F oven or an air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving is faster but will result in a softer crust.
Customizable Fillings: Treat these just like a regular pizza! You can easily swap the pepperoni for cooked crumbled sausage, finely diced bell peppers, black olives, or mushrooms. Just make sure any vegetable additions are finely chopped so they fit into the cups.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftover pizza cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat and keep the crust crispy, place them in a 350°F oven or an air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving is faster but will result in a softer crust.