Little Caesars Pizza Puffs Copycat

Transform your kitchen into a pizzeria with these irresistible pizza puffs that capture all the magic of Little Caesars' famous creation. Each golden-brown puff cradles a perfect combination of melted cheese, savory sauce, and your chosen toppings, all wrapped in a pillowy-soft dough that's crispy around the edges. These bite-sized delights deliver the complete pizza experience in just a few heavenly mouthfuls, making them perfect for everything from casual family dinners to elegant entertaining.

During countless weekend baking sessions, these pizza puffs have become my family's most requested treat. The joy of pulling apart that first puff, watching the cheese stretch and seeing the steam rise, never gets old. My kitchen has become the favorite gathering spot when these are in the oven.

Essential Ingredients Guide

• Pizza Dough (1 pound): Choose dough that feels alive and elastic when touched. Fresh dough should spring back when gently pressed. Whether homemade or store-bought, ensure it's at room temperature for easy handling
• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups): Whole milk, low-moisture mozzarella provides the best melt and those coveted cheese pulls. Grate it yourself for superior melting qualities
• Marinara Sauce (1 cup): Look for a thick, chunky sauce that clings to a spoon. Watery sauce can make your puffs soggy
• Butter (1/2 cup): Unsalted butter allows better control of seasoning. European-style butter adds extra richness
• Fresh Garlic (4-5 cloves): Choose firm, unblemished cloves for the most vibrant flavor
• Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Freshly grated aged Parmesan adds a nutty depth that pre-grated varieties can't match
• Italian Seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend containing oregano, basil, thyme, and marjoram enhances the authentic pizza flavor
• Optional Toppings: Pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, or any pizza toppings you love

Creating Perfect Puffs

Dough Preparation:

Ensure dough reaches room temperature naturally. Divide into 12 equal portions using a scale. Shape each portion into smooth, taut balls. Place in generously buttered muffin cups.

Garlic Butter Creation:

Melt butter slowly to prevent browning. Add freshly minced garlic while butter is warm. Stir in finely grated Parmesan and dried herbs. Let flavors meld for 5 minutes before using.

Rising Process:

Cover dough balls with a clean kitchen towel. Place in a draft-free spot around 75°F. Allow to rise until doubled in size. Test readiness with a gentle finger poke.

Assembly Magic:

Create deep wells in risen dough using gentle pressure. Brush interior and rim with garlic butter mixture. Layer with marinara sauce, leaving room for cheese. Add generous amounts of shredded mozzarella.

Finishing Touches:

Sprinkle Italian seasoning over each puff. Add extra cheese around edges for crispy texture. Arrange toppings thoughtfully for even distribution. Drizzle remaining garlic butter over assembled puffs.

My personal favorite combination includes extra garlic in the butter and a mix of mozzarella and provolone cheese. The aroma alone makes my kitchen feel like an authentic pizzeria.

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Perfect Pairings

Transform these pizza puffs into a complete meal by serving them alongside a crisp Caesar salad with homemade dressing. For casual gatherings, pair them with marinara or ranch dipping sauce. They also complement a variety of soups, making them perfect for cozy winter meals.

Creative Twists

Experiment with different cheese combinations like adding smoked gouda for depth or fresh buffalo mozzarella for authentic Italian flavor. Create breakfast versions with scrambled eggs and bacon, or try dessert variations with Nutella and mascarpone. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe.

Smart Storage

Store cooled puffs in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 7-10 minutes to restore their crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving as this can make the dough tough. For longer storage, freeze unbaked assembled puffs and bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.

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After countless batches and family taste tests, these pizza puffs have earned their place in our regular rotation. They represent the perfect balance between casual comfort food and impressive entertaining fare. The joy of watching guests take their first bite, seeing their eyes light up at the perfect cheese pull, makes all the careful preparation worthwhile. While the ingredients might be simple, it's the attention to detail and love of good food that transforms these humble components into something truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, you can use pizza dough from Trader Joe's or Rhodes Dinner Rolls from the freezer section as convenient alternatives to homemade dough.

→ How long should I let the dough rise?

Let the dough balls proof in a warm place until they double in size, which typically takes about an hour.

→ Can I make these without pepperoni?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by simply omitting the pepperoni or substituting it with your favorite vegetables.

→ How do I store leftover pizza puffs?

Store cooled pizza puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ What can I serve with pizza puffs?

Pizza puffs are best served with ranch dressing for dipping, and they make great appetizers or snacks for parties and gatherings.