Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Little Caesars Crazy Puffs are a fun twist on traditional cheese sticks, with a crispy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth cheesy center. The dough is simple to work with, and the combination of mozzarella cheese and buttery seasoning gives them that irresistible flavor. They’re perfect for dipping into marinara sauce or enjoying on their own as a snack or appetizer. Plus, you can easily customize them with different fillings or seasonings to make them your own.

Ingredients

For the puffs:

1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or use homemade pizza dough)
8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes or shredded
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the dipping sauce (optional):

1/2 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Prepare the dough:

Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough on a flat surface and cut it into small squares or rectangles, about 2 inches each (adjust the size to your preference).
If you’re using homemade pizza dough, roll it out into a rectangle and cut it into squares of the same size.

3. Assemble the puffs:

Place a small cube or a spoonful of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough square.
Fold the dough over the cheese, forming a little pouch or pocket. Pinch the edges together to seal them and make sure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat with the remaining dough squares.

4. Season the puffs:

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush the top of each puff with the seasoned butter mixture to add flavor and help them crisp up in the oven.

5. Bake the puffs:

Place the stuffed and sealed dough puffs onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced about 1 inch apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the puffs are golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve:

Once the puffs are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve them warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Cheese variety: Try using a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, or even cream cheese for a different flavor profile inside the puffs.
Add-ins: You can mix in a bit of , pepperoni, or vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb twist: Sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley on top of the puffs after baking for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Crazy Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though the texture may not be as crisp.

FAQs

Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Crazy Puffs ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. You can also freeze them before baking—just freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them from frozen when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, you can use puff pastry, biscuit dough, or even crescent roll dough as alternatives to pizza dough. Each will give you a slightly different texture, but all will work well for these cheesy puffs.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought marinara sauce is a convenient and quick option for dipping, and it pairs perfectly with the cheesy puffs. You can also make your own marinara sauce if you prefer a homemade touch.

Can I make these puffs without cheese?

If you want a cheese-free version, you can stuff the puffs with sautéed vegetables, cooked meat, or a combination of both for a savory treat.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to pinch the dough edges tightly to seal the puffs well before baking. If you’re using a thinner dough like puff pastry, you may need to use slightly more dough to ensure the cheese stays inside.

Conclusion

Homemade Crazy Puffs are a delicious and fun snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family meal, or just craving something cheesy and savory, these puffs will quickly become a favorite. With a golden, crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy center, they’re a treat that’s sure to please everyone. Easy to make and full of flavor, these Crazy Puffs are a must-try!