Bambini
Bambini are delightful bite-sized pastries filled with cheesy goodness and topped with pepperoni, perfect for parties, snacks, or casual gatherings. Crispy, cheesy, and savory, they appeal to both kids and adults, offering a comforting blend of flavors in a handheld treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° F.
- Combine Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
- Halve each biscuit horizontally to form 20 thin biscuits.
- Gently shape each piece of dough into an oval approximately 2 1/2 x 4 inches.
- Place a pepperoni slice on one end of the dough oval.
- Add a tablespoon of cheese mixture on top of the pepperoni.
- Moisten the edges of the dough; fold over to enclose the filling, pinching edges to seal.
- Place the filled pastries on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Bake until golden brown, about 10 to 12 minutes. Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the cheese mixture. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a good substitute, though it will have a different texture. For a more indulgent twist, you could also incorporate crumbled Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables into the filling. This dish is reminiscent of Italian recipes that use pastry for savory fillings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful pastries warm as a snack or appetizer. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, adding a classic Italian touch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or a side of Skillet Pasta to balance the richness of the Bambini.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Bambini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the biscuits soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bambini contains roughly 179 calories, with 10g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Bambini up to the baking step and then refrigerate them for several hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled when placed in the oven.
What can I use instead of pepperoni?
If you're looking for alternatives to pepperoni, try using turkey pepperoni, salami, or even diced vegetables for a vegetarian option. These substitutions can add unique flavors and cater to different dietary preferences.
Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the large flaky biscuits with gluten-free biscuit dough or use a gluten-free pastry recipe. Ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).