Satisfy your cravings for cheesy, savory goodness with our Copycat Crazy Puffs recipe. These delightful puffs are inspired by the iconic Crazy Bread from a famous pizza chain, but with a unique twist that makes them irresistible. With layers of buttery, garlicky goodness and melty cheese, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Let’s dive into the world of Crazy Puffs and discover how to recreate this beloved favorite at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 (13.8-ounce) pizza crust (such as Pillsbury)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups jarred pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups pepperoni slices
- 4 cups pre-shredded farmer-style mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare Pizza Dough: Roll out the pizza crust dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches in size.
- Brush with Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, chopped parsley, dried Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and black pepper. Brush the butter mixture evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the buttered dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Layer the pepperoni slices over the sauce, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from one of the longer edges, roll the dough tightly into a log, similar to a jelly roll. Using a sharp knife, cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the slices, cut-side down, onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each slice to allow for rising.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Crazy Puffs to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. Enjoy them warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Extra Toppings: Get creative with your Crazy Puffs by adding your favorite pizza toppings such as cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, onions, or olives.
- Make Them Mini: For bite-sized appetizers, roll out the dough into smaller rectangles and cut them into smaller slices before baking.
- Customize the Seasonings: Adjust the seasonings in the butter mixture to suit your taste preferences. Add more garlic salt for extra flavor or sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Crazy Puffs, use a low-carb pizza crust or make your own crust using almond flour or coconut flour. Replace the pizza sauce with a sugar-free marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce. Use mini pepperoni slices or cooked bacon pieces as the protein topping, and opt for shredded mozzarella cheese with reduced carbs. Adjust the seasonings to avoid added sugars and carbs.
- Low-Carb Version: Similarly, for a low-carb version, use a low-carb pizza crust and choose toppings with fewer carbs. Replace the pizza sauce with a low-carb tomato sauce or pesto. Use a combination of low-carb cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar. Customize the seasonings to avoid high-carb ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought? A: Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough if preferred. Just be sure to roll it out to the same size and thickness as the store-bought dough.
Q: Can I freeze Crazy Puffs for later? A: Yes, you can freeze baked Crazy Puffs for later enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake from frozen in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I make Crazy Puffs ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the Crazy Puffs up to a day in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: How should leftovers be stored? A: Store any leftover Crazy Puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Copycat Crazy Puffs are a delicious twist on a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, movie night, or simply craving a cheesy snack, these puffs are sure to impress with their flavor and simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy the irresistible combination of buttery dough, savory toppings, and gooey cheese. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience!