Mini Pumpkin Pizzas

(14)

Recipe Intro From joyfulhomecooking

Transform classic Italian calzones into festive Halloween treats with these adorable Mini Pumpkin Pizzas! Bursting with mozzarella and pepperoni, these bite-sized delights are perfect for your Halloween party.

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  • Recipe Card
Prep time 30mins
Cook time 20mins
Serves or Makes: 16 mini pizzas

Recipe Card

ingredients

  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 3/4 tablespoon instant yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (optional)
  • 3½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons milk powder
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • Pizza sauce, as needed
  • Pepperoni, as needed
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese, as needed
  • Egg wash, for brushing

Method

  • Step 1

    In a pan, gently warm the milk and water together.

  • Step 2

    In a large bowl, mix the yeast and sugar into the warm milk-water mixture. Cover and let it sit for 10-15 minutes, or until the yeast becomes puffy.

  • Step 3

    Add vegetable oil, yogurt (if using), and gradually stir in 3 cups of flour along with milk powder and salt. Continue adding flour until the dough forms, up to 4 cups, but add it gradually.

  • Step 4

    Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-6 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic.

  • Step 5

    Coat the dough with oil and let it rise until doubled in size, about 30-60 minutes.

  • Step 6

    Divide the risen dough into 16 pieces, flatten each piece into a small circle.

  • Step 7

    Fill each circle with pizza sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese, then seal them into filled balls.

  • Step 8

    Flip the filled ball over so that the smooth side is facing up.

  • Step 9

    Take one of the oiled strings and slide it underneath the bun. Bring the two ends of the string together and tie a twist knot on top of the bun.

  • Step 10

    Flip the bun over again, and wrap the string around it, tying another twist knot on the opposite side.

  • Step 11

    Continue wrapping the string around the bun until it’s divided into 8 sections. Be gentle; do not tighten the string too much.

  • Step 12

    Flip the prepared bun one more time so that the knot is at the bottom, giving you a neat, pumpkin-shaped top.

  • Step 13

    Place the buns on a greased tray, let them rise for another 20 minutes, then brush with an egg wash.

  • Step 14

    Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

  • Step 15

    Carefully remove the strings with small scissors to avoid tearing the buns. Serve warm and enjoy!