Go Back
Adam

Mini Beef Pepperoni Pizza Pumpkins Recipe

Pizza is a forever favorite, but when you give it a festive twist, it becomes something truly special—pizza pumpkins! These little pumpkin-shaped pizza bites are fun, delicious, and a guaranteed hit at parties, family dinners, or cozy nights in. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella, savory beef (or chicken) pepperoni, and marinara sauce, they’re wrapped in golden dough and shaped to look like pumpkins. They’re easy enough for beginners and a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for Halloween, a themed dinner, or just want a fun snack, these pizza pumpkins are a perfect pick.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 8 mini pizza pumpkins
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 slices beef or chicken pepperoni
  • 8 mini mozzarella balls bocconcini
  • 2 tablespoons marinara sauce plus extra for dipping
  • 1 large egg slightly beaten, for egg wash
  • 1 sheet pizza dough or crescent roll dough
  • Optional: parsley or green onion stems for pumpkin “stems”

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Fork or whisk (for egg wash)
  • Pastry brush
  • Knife (to score pumpkin lines)

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Step 2: Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into 8 equal squares.
      Step 3: Place a slice of beef pepperoni in the center of each dough square. Add a spoonful of marinara sauce and place a mini mozzarella ball on top. Cover with another slice of pepperoni.
        Step 4: Fold the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch tightly to seal. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
          Step 5: Use a knife to gently score vertical lines around each dough ball to create pumpkin-like ridges.
            Step 6: Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
              Step 7: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the dough turns golden brown.
                Step 8: Remove from the oven and insert a small parsley stem or green onion piece at the top to make a pumpkin “stem.”
                  Step 9: Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

                    Notes

                    🧊 Storage & Reheating
                    Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
                    Freezer: Freeze unbaked pumpkins; bake straight from frozen with 5 extra minutes.
                    Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
                    🥄 Variations
                    Cheesy overload: Add cheddar along with mozzarella.
                    Veggie delight: Use mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers instead of pepperoni.
                    Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
                    Mini calzones: Fold into half-moons instead of round pumpkins.
                    BBQ flavor: Replace marinara with BBQ sauce and use chicken pepperoni.
                    ❓ 10 FAQs
                    Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of mini balls? – Yes, just use 1 tablespoon per pumpkin.
                    Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough? – Yes, but reduce baking time slightly.
                    Do I have to use egg wash? – No, but it helps with browning.
                    Can I prepare them ahead? – Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
                    How do I make the pumpkin ridges deeper? – Tie kitchen twine loosely before baking, then remove.
                    Can I add extra toppings inside? – Absolutely, olives, bell peppers, or onions work well.
                    Are these freezer-friendly? – Yes, especially before baking.
                    Do kids enjoy making them? – Yes, it’s a fun family project.
                    Can I make these bite-sized? – Yes, just cut smaller dough squares and use half a mozzarella ball.
                    What sauce pairs best? – Marinara, garlic butter, or ranch.
                    🏁 Conclusion
                    These Mini Beef Pepperoni Pizza Pumpkins are the perfect mix of fun and flavor. With gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and a golden dough shell shaped into pumpkins, they’re festive, creative, and irresistible. Whether you serve them as party snacks, family treats, or holiday bites, they’ll quickly become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.