Pepperoni Cheese Puffs: 7 Simple Steps to Cheesy Bliss

Name: Pepperoni Cheese Puffs: 7 Simple Steps to Cheesy Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup diced pepperoni; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

June 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the sheer joy that comes from biting into a warm, cheesy pepperoni cheese puff! These little delights are like a party in your mouth—so savory and satisfying. I remember the first time I made them for a gathering; I could barely keep my hands off them while they were baking! They’re incredibly versatile, perfect for appetizers at a fancy get-together or a cozy snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Plus, everyone loves them! The gooey cheese paired with the zesty pepperoni creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Trust me, once you whip up a batch of these, they’ll quickly become a go-to in your kitchen!

pepperoni cheese puffs - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these scrumptious pepperoni cheese puffs! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your puffs. Make sure to spoon and level the flour for accuracy—no one wants dense puffs!
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Use fresh mozzarella for a melty texture that stretches beautifully. You could also mix in some provolone for extra flavor.
1/2 cup diced pepperoni: Choose a high-quality pepperoni for the best flavor. I like to cut mine into small pieces so every bite is packed with that delicious, zesty kick.
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened: This adds creaminess to the filling. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
1/4 cup milk: Any milk will do, but whole milk will give you richer flavor. Just remember to measure it out carefully!
1 large egg: This binds everything together. Make sure your egg is at room temperature for the best mixing.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This is your leavening agent, helping the puffs rise and get that perfect fluffiness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that savory flavor! You can adjust the amount based on your garlic love.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This adds depth to the flavor. It’s a subtle but essential component.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, and a sprinkle of pepper adds just the right touch of warmth.

Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process so much smoother. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of these delicious puffs!

How to Prepare Pepperoni Cheese Puffs

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these glorious pepperoni cheese puffs! Follow along with me, and I promise it’ll be a breeze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for getting those puffs perfectly golden and fluffy. You want that oven nice and hot when your dough goes in!
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these together until they’re well blended. This step ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is key for a good rise.
Add the cheesy goodness: Now, throw in 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of diced pepperoni, and 1/4 cup of softened cream cheese. Use a spatula to fold these into the dry mixture gently. Don’t overmix—just combine until you can’t see any dry flour!
Prepare the wet mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of milk and 1 large egg until fully blended. It’s best if the egg is at room temperature; it’ll help everything mix together smoothly.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. You want a thick, cohesive dough, but don’t worry if it looks a bit lumpy—that’s perfectly normal!
Scoop onto a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and use a spoon or a cookie scoop to drop generous spoonfuls of the mixture onto the sheet. Leave some space between each puff, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Bake to perfection: Pop them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and they’re ready when they’re golden brown and puffed up. The aroma will be irresistible!
Cool and enjoy: Once baked, take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to move. Trust me, you’ll want to let them cool just enough so you don’t burn your tongue on that gooey cheese!

And there you have it! You’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying these delightful pepperoni cheese puffs. Don’t forget to savor that first bite; it’s pure bliss!

Nutritional Information

When indulging in these delicious pepperoni cheese puffs, it’s good to know what you’re getting! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per puff:

Calories: 150
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 300mg
Sugar: 1g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. Enjoying these puffs in moderation is key to a balanced diet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pepperoni cheese puffs are a total game-changer for any gathering or snack time! Here’s why you’ll love making them:

Super easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, even on a busy day!
Flavor-packed: The combination of gooey cheese and zesty pepperoni creates an explosion of flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a party, game night, or a cozy movie marathon, these little bites are sure to impress your friends and family.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making them a versatile option for everyone.
Great for leftovers: If you happen to have any left, they store beautifully and are just as delicious reheated!

Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe repertoire!

Tips for Success

To ensure your pepperoni cheese puffs turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by:

Quality Ingredients Matter: Use the best quality mozzarella and pepperoni you can find. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, while a good brand of pepperoni will elevate the flavor. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher puffs, and we want them light and fluffy!
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the dough for an extra flavor kick. This little touch can really enhance that Italian-American vibe!
Baking Sheet Prep: Make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also helps with even baking. If you want a little extra crispiness, you can lightly grease the parchment.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your puffs as they bake. Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 15-minute mark. They should be golden brown and puffed up when done.
Serve Warm: These puffs are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. If you can, serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it’s an absolute game-changer!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to making pepperoni cheese puffs that leave everyone asking for seconds!

Variations on Pepperoni Cheese Puffs

One of the best things about pepperoni cheese puffs is how easy it is to mix things up and make them your own! Here are some fun variations to spark your creativity:

Cheese Medley: Swap out the mozzarella for a blend of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack. Each cheese brings its unique flavor and meltiness!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley into the dough for a burst of freshness. Dried Italian herbs also work wonderfully if fresh isn’t on hand.
Spicy Kick: For those who like it hot, try using spicy pepperoni or adding crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mix for an extra zing.
Veggie Boost: Mix in some finely diced bell peppers, olives, or spinach for a veggie-packed version that still retains that classic pepperoni flavor.
Sweet and Savory: Experiment by adding a touch of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for a sweet twist that pairs beautifully with the savory cheese and pepperoni.

Don’t hesitate to get creative—these variations can turn your pepperoni cheese puffs into a whole new experience!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your delicious pepperoni cheese puffs, the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further! Here are some fantastic ideas to consider:

Marinara Sauce: Serve these puffs with a warm bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato flavor complements the cheesy goodness perfectly and adds a fun interactive element!
Garlic Butter Dip: Whip up a simple garlic butter sauce to drizzle or dip into. Melted butter mixed with minced garlic and herbs will take these puffs to the next level.
Green Salad: Pairing them with a light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the cheese puffs. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully!
Cheese Board: Include the puffs on a charcuterie board alongside sliced meats, cheeses, olives, and nuts for a delightful spread that’s perfect for entertaining.
Wine Pairing: If you’re feeling fancy, serve them with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or a light Pinot Noir, which beautifully complements the flavors of pepperoni and cheese.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your pepperoni cheese puffs but also make for an unforgettable dining experience!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftover pepperoni cheese puffs? Lucky you! To keep them fresh, store your puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them up to avoid any sogginess.

When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheating is key to maintaining that delightful texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the puffs on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes or until they’re warmed through and the cheese is gooey again. You can also pop them in the microwave for a quicker option, but be careful not to overdo it, or they might get a bit chewy. Trust me, a little time in the oven makes all the difference!

FAQ Section

Can I make these pepperoni cheese puffs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking.

Can I freeze pepperoni cheese puffs?
Yes, these puffs freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven from frozen—no need to thaw!

What can I use instead of pepperoni?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try diced cooked sausage, turkey pepperoni, or even crumbled bacon for a different flavor profile. You can also go meat-free and use vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for a delicious veggie version.

How do I know when they’re done baking?
Your pepperoni cheese puffs are done when they’re golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them starting at the 15-minute mark, as every oven can vary slightly in temperature!

Can I use gluten-free flour?
Definitely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free pepperoni cheese puffs that everyone can enjoy!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.