What is the best dough to use?

Refrigerated pizza dough works well for ease and consistent texture, but homemade dough can also be used for a fresher taste.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit pepperoni or substitute with vegetarian-friendly alternatives to keep the cheesy, savory flavor intact.

Use black food coloring with a fine brush or thin strips of black olives to draw realistic basketball stitching on each baked bite.

Classic pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter dip pairs nicely, enhancing the cheesy and herb flavors.

Brushing each ball with beaten egg before baking ensures a shiny, golden crust with a crispy texture.

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them briefly before baking to save time without compromising quality.

Cheesy, bite-sized pizza snacks shaped like basketballs—perfect for game day or parties!

This recipe has become a favorite at our family gatherings, especially during basketball season.

Dough: 1 pound (450 g) refrigerated pizza dough
Filling: 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 24 slices pepperoni (optional omit for vegetarian), 1/2 cup (120 ml) pizza sauce plus more for dipping
Topping: 1 large egg beaten, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, Black food coloring or black olives for basketball lines

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch (0.5 cm) thickness.
Step 3:: Using a 2-inch (5 cm) round cutter cut out 24 circles from the dough.
Step 4:: Place a small spoonful of pizza sauce a sprinkle of mozzarella and a slice of pepperoni (if using) onto the center of each dough circle.
Step 5:: Fold the edges up and pinch to seal forming a ball. Place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6:: Brush each ball with beaten egg. Sprinkle with Parmesan and oregano.
Step 7:: Bake for 1215 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 8:: Let cool slightly. Using a fine brush dipped in black food coloring or a thin strip of black olive draw basketball lines onto each bite.
Step 9:: Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Making these together has created some of our best family game day memories.

Baking sheet Parchment paper Rolling pin Round cookie cutter (2-inch5 cm) Pastry brush Small brush or food-safe marker

Contains wheat (gluten) milk (dairy) and egg Pepperoni may contain additional allergenscheck labels

Calories 80 Total Fat 35 g Carbohydrates 9 g Protein 3 g per serving

These bites are a slam dunk for any occasion and are sure to impress your guests.

→ What is the best dough to use?: Refrigerated pizza dough works well for ease and consistent texture, but homemade dough can also be used for a fresher taste.
→ Can I make these vegetarian?: Yes, simply omit pepperoni or substitute with vegetarian-friendly alternatives to keep the cheesy, savory flavor intact.
→ How do I create the basketball lines?: Use black food coloring with a fine brush or thin strips of black olives to draw realistic basketball stitching on each baked bite.
→ What dipping sauces complement these bites?: Classic pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter dip pairs nicely, enhancing the cheesy and herb flavors.
→ How do I achieve the golden brown crust?: Brushing each ball with beaten egg before baking ensures a shiny, golden crust with a crispy texture.
→ Can the bites be prepared ahead of time?: Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them briefly before baking to save time without compromising quality.