Save Miniature pizzas shaped like maple leaves, topped with vibrant autumn-hued vegetables and a sweet touch of maple, perfect for festive gatherings.
I enjoy making these mini pizzas for family gatherings because they bring seasonal charm and great flavor to the table.
Ingredients
- Dough: 1 pound (450 g) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade), All-purpose flour for dusting
- Sauce: 1/3 cup (80 ml) tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup, 1 clove garlic minced, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, Salt and pepper to taste
- Toppings: 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 small red bell pepper thinly sliced, 1/2 small yellow bell pepper thinly sliced, 1/2 small orange bell pepper thinly sliced, 1/4 small red onion thinly sliced, 1/4 cup (30 g) baby spinach chopped, 2 tablespoons corn kernels (optional), Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Using a maple leaf-shaped cookie cutter (about 4 inches/10 cm wide), cut out 8 shapes. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl, mix the tomato sauce, maple syrup, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Step 4:
- Spoon a thin layer of the sauce onto each dough leaf.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar over the sauce.
- Step 6:
- Arrange the bell peppers, onion, spinach, and corn on top to create a colorful foliage effect.
- Step 7:
- Lightly brush the edges of the dough with olive oil.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden.
- Step 9:
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Save These mini pizzas always bring joy to our family gatherings and highlight the best of fall flavors.
Required Tools
Maple leaf-shaped cookie cutter, Rolling pin, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Mixing bowls, Pastry brush
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), Milk (cheese). May contain Corn (if using corn kernels). Always double-check labels for store-bought dough and cheese if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Per mini pizza: Calories 180, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 23 g, Protein 7 g
Save Enjoy these festive mini pizzas fresh from the oven for the best flavor and presentation.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of dough works best for these mini bites?
A pliable pizza dough, either store-bought or homemade, rolled to about 1/4 inch thickness works well for shaping and baking.
- → Can I substitute the cheese in this dish?
Yes, smoked gouda or goat cheese can add deeper flavors and variety to the topping blend.
- → How do the maple syrup and tomato sauce combine in the topping?
The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness balancing the tangy tomato, creating a harmonious autumn flavor base.
- → What alternatives exist for the colorful toppings?
Mushrooms or roasted butternut squash are excellent seasonal options that enhance the autumn theme.
- → How should the mini bites be served for best taste?
Allow them to cool slightly after baking, then serve alongside a fresh arugula salad and cider for a perfect autumn appetizer.