
This recipe makes mini pizzas baked right in muffin tins using crescent dough cheese and your favorite toppings perfect for gatherings or kid-friendly snacks.
I discovered this recipe when I needed a fun party snack and now it is a go-to whenever I want something quick and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
- 226 grams refrigerated crescent roll dough: for a flaky buttery crust choose a high quality dough for best texture
- Non-stick cooking spray: to ensure the crust releases easily from the muffin tin
- 120 milliliters pizza sauce: adds classic tangy flavor use your favorite brand or homemade sauce
- 60 grams shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for gooey cheesy bites
- 30 to 40 mini pepperoni slices: or substitute with diced mushrooms cooked sausage or sliced olives for variety
- 0.5 grams garlic powder: adds a subtle aromatic note
- 0.5 grams Italian seasoning: brings a blend of herbs that elevate the taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Muffin Tins:
- Generously coat eight muffin tin cups with non-stick cooking spray to promote easy removal and create crisp edges on the crust.
- Shape Crusts:
- Separate the crescent roll dough into eight triangles then flatten each piece before pressing it into the muffin cups making sure the dough rises up the sides to hold toppings.
- Add Base Seasoning and Cheese:
- Sprinkle a small pinch of garlic powder inside each dough-lined cup then add a modest layer of shredded mozzarella to form the cheesy base.
- Add Sauce:
- Spoon one tablespoon of pizza sauce over the cheese in each cup spreading gently to cover evenly without soaking the crust.
- Top and Season:
- Add another layer of mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce then sprinkle Italian seasoning and arrange pepperoni slices or your chosen toppings evenly on each pizza cup.
- Bake:
- Place the muffin tin in a preheated oven at 190 degrees Celsius bake for 10 minutes or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Rest:
- Allow the mini pizzas to rest in the tin for 2 to 3 minutes so they set slightly then remove carefully using a spoon or offset spatula.
- Serve:
- Enjoy immediately while warm to savor the perfect combination of melted cheese and crisp crust.

My favorite part is the crispy crust which holds all the gooey toppings together just right. This dish always reminds me of fun family get-togethers where everyone grabs one and smiles instantly.
Storage Tips
Store leftover mini pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 175 degrees Celsius for about five minutes to regain crispness rather than microwaving which softens the crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free option swap mozzarella for a plant-based cheese alternative and use vegan crescent dough if available. You can also experiment with toppings like grilled vegetables or vegan sausage to keep the flavors exciting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair well with a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Cultural Context
Mini pizza cupcakes are a fun twist on traditional pizza originating from Italian-American cuisine transforming a classic into bite-sized party food perfect for casual gatherings or kid-friendly treats.

Common Recipe Questions
- → What dough works best for these pizza cupcakes?
Refrigerated crescent roll dough is ideal for a flaky, golden crust that fits perfectly in muffin tins.
- → Can I use other toppings besides pepperoni?
Yes, you can add diced mushrooms, cooked sausage, sliced olives, or any preferred toppings to suit your taste.
- → How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Sprinkle garlic powder and a bit of cheese at the base before adding sauce to create a barrier that keeps the crust crisp.
- → What oven temperature and time are recommended for baking?
Bake at 190°C for about 10 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- → Can these be made ahead and reheated?
Yes, prepare and bake them ahead, then reheat before serving to enjoy warm, gooey pizza cupcakes.