Mummy Pizza Pies

Introduction

Mummy Pizza Pies are the perfect blend of fun, flavor, and fright—ideal for Halloween parties, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to bring a little spooky charm to the table. These adorable yet eerie appetizers transform classic mini pizzas into creepy mummies using simple ingredients and creative presentation. With their gooey cheese, savory pepperoni “eyes,” and stretchy mozzarella bandages, Mummy Pizza Pies are guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a themed party or just looking for a playful twist on pizza night, these mummy-shaped treats offer an interactive culinary experience that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

The History

While there isn’t a centuries-old lineage behind Mummy Pizza Pies, their origins can be traced back to the rise of food artistry and themed cooking in the 2010s, particularly around Halloween. Social media platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok played a significant role in popularizing edible crafts, encouraging home cooks to get creative with everyday foods. The concept of turning mini pizzas into mummies emerged as part of this trend—a clever way to combine kid-friendly flavors with seasonal spookiness. Inspired by classic horror movie tropes and ancient Egyptian mythology (albeit in a lighthearted way), these pizzas began appearing at school events, fall festivals, and family gatherings. Over time, variations have popped up across blogs, recipe sites, and parenting forums, each adding unique twists while maintaining the core idea: deliciousness wrapped in doughy bandages.

Ingredients Breakdown

The magic of Mummy Pizza Pies lies in their simplicity and accessibility. Every ingredient serves a purpose—not only in taste but also in visual storytelling:

• Pillsbury Crescent Roll Dough: This pre-made dough provides the “bandages” that wrap around each pie, creating the iconic mummy look. Its flaky texture bakes beautifully and separates easily into strips.
• Mini Pizza Bagels or English Muffins: These act as the base, offering a sturdy foundation for toppings. They’re small enough to resemble individual mummy heads.
• Marinara or Pizza Sauce: A flavorful base layer that adds moisture and classic Italian seasoning notes.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, binding all ingredients together and contributing to the creamy interior.
• Pepperoni Slices: Used creatively as “eyes,” they add a pop of color and a slightly spicy, smoky flavor contrast.
• Olive Pieces (optional): Can be used for pupils within the pepperoni eyes to enhance facial detail.
• Garlic Powder, Oregano, or Parmesan (optional seasonings): For those who want to elevate the flavor profile beyond basic pizza taste.
• Egg Wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water): Brushed on before baking to give the dough a golden, polished finish.

All ingredients are pantry- or fridge-staples for most households, making this recipe not only fun but also highly approachable.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Base: Take your mini bagels or English muffin halves and place them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. If using full English muffins, slice them in half and use one half per mummy.
3. Add the Sauce: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of marinara sauce onto each base, spreading it evenly to cover the surface without overflowing the edges.
4. Sprinkle the Cheese: Distribute shredded mozzarella generously over the sauced bases. Make sure the cheese covers the sauce completely; this helps bind the toppings during baking.
5. Position the Eyes: Place one small pepperoni slice on each pie near the top center to represent an eye. For a more animated look, press a tiny piece of black olive into the center of the pepperoni to create a pupil.
6. Unroll the Crescent Dough: Open the can of crescent roll dough and carefully separate it into triangles. Then, cut each triangle lengthwise into 3–4 thin strips. You’ll need approximately 6–8 strips per mummy, depending on size.
7. Wrap the Mummies: Begin wrapping the dough strips diagonally over the top of each pizza base, leaving the two “eyes” exposed. Cross the strips in a crisscross pattern to mimic Egyptian mummy wrappings. Let some ends drape loosely for added realism.
8. Seal the Bottom: Gently tuck the ends of the dough underneath the base to secure them and ensure even cooking.
9. Apply Egg Wash (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and one tablespoon of water. Lightly brush this mixture over the exposed dough strips for a glossy, golden-brown finish after baking.
10. Bake Until Golden: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden brown, and the cheese is fully melted.
11. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing burns and making them easier to handle.
12. Serve Immediately: Arrange on a festive platter and enjoy while warm!

Tips

• Don’t Overfill: Too much sauce or cheese can cause leakage during baking, leading to messy bandages or soggy bottoms. Stick to moderate portions.
• Use Cold Dough: Work with chilled crescent dough—it’s easier to cut and less sticky. However, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes if too stiff.
• Keep Eyes Centered: Position the pepperoni eyes toward the upper third of the pizza so that when wrapped, they remain clearly visible.
• Scissor Trick: Use kitchen scissors to quickly slice the dough into strips instead of struggling with a knife.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye during the last few minutes to prevent the delicate dough strips from burning.
• Let Kids Help: Wrapping the mummies is a great activity for children—they’ll love designing their own spooky faces!
• Uniformity Matters: Try to keep the dough strips consistent in width for a neat appearance.
• Double Batch? If serving a crowd, double the recipe—but don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Bake in batches if needed for optimal airflow and browning.

Variations and Customizations

Mummy Pizza Pies are incredibly versatile. Here are some creative ways to personalize them:

• Veggie Mummies: Skip the pepperoni and use roasted red pepper circles or sun-dried tomato slices for eyes. Add spinach or mushrooms under the cheese for extra nutrition.
• Breakfast Mummies: Swap pizza sauce for scrambled eggs, add a sprinkle of cheddar, and use ham bits as eyes. Perfect for brunch!
• Dessert Mummies: Replace savory elements with Nutella or cream cheese base, mini marshmallows for eyes, and wrap with sweetened dough strips. Drizzle with chocolate after baking.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free puff pastry or a suitable alternative to crescent rolls, and pair with GF pizza rounds or tortillas.
• Vegan Mummies: Opt for plant-based cheese, vegan crescent dough (check labels), and dairy-free sauce. Use marinated tofu slices or tempeh bacon bits as “eyes.”
• Spicy Mummies: Add jalapeños, hot honey drizzle, or spicy salami slices for an adult-friendly kick.
• Mini Mummy Bites: Use cocktail-sized bread rounds or polenta slices for bite-sized versions—perfect for appetizer trays.
• Holiday Themes: Adapt the design for other holidays—ghosts for Christmas (with powdered sugar), pumpkins for fall (use orange bell pepper eyes), etc.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While Mummy Pizza Pies are undeniably indulgent, they can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and health goals:

• Calorie Content: One standard mummy pie contains approximately 180–250 calories, depending on ingredients used. The crescent dough and cheese contribute most of the fat and calories.
• Fat & Sodium: Mozzarella and processed meats like pepperoni contain saturated fats and sodium. To reduce, opt for low-fat cheese and turkey pepperoni or nitrate-free options.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from refined flour in the dough and base. Whole wheat English muffins or sprouted grain alternatives can increase fiber content.
• Protein: Provides a moderate amount (around 6–8g per serving) from cheese and meat toppings.
• Calcium & Vitamin C: Mozzarella offers calcium, while marinara sauce may provide lycopene and vitamin C from tomatoes.
• Kid-Friendly Nutrition: These pies can serve as a gateway to introducing picky eaters to new textures and flavors when paired with veggies or whole grains.
• Balancing the Meal: Serve alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh fruit to balance the meal and boost micronutrient intake.
• Allergen Notes: Contains common allergens: wheat, dairy, eggs (in dough and wash), and soy (often in processed meats). Always read labels carefully for hidden allergens.

Ingredients

• 1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury crescent roll dough
• 12 mini pizza bagels OR 6 English muffins, split in half
• ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 24 small pepperoni slices (or veggie alternative)
• 24 small pieces of black olive (optional, for pupils)
• 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, dried oregano, grated Parmesan

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange mini bagels or English muffin halves on the baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Spread 1 teaspoon of marinara sauce on each base.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over each sauced base.
5. Place a pepperoni slice on each to form an eye; insert an olive piece in the center if desired.
6. Unroll crescent dough and cut each triangle into 3–4 long strips.
7. Begin wrapping dough strips over the top of each pizza, crossing them in a crisscross pattern like bandages. Leave the pepperoni eyes uncovered.
8. Tuck loose ends underneath each base to secure.
9. In a small bowl, whisk egg and water. Lightly brush over exposed dough.
10. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
11. Cool for 3–5 minutes before serving.
12. Optional: Sprinkle with herbs or Parmesan after baking for extra flavor.

FAQ

Can I make Mummy Pizza Pies ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

Can I freeze them?
You can freeze unbaked mummy pies. Place assembled pies on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes.

What can I use instead of crescent rolls?
Puff pastry, biscuit dough, or homemade pizza dough rolled thin can work well. Adjust baking times accordingly.

My dough keeps tearing—what should I do?
Work gently and avoid stretching too hard. If needed, patch torn areas with extra dough or reposition strips.

Are these safe for toddlers?
Yes, but supervise young children due to potential choking hazards (olives, pepperoni). Consider omitting olives or cutting into smaller pieces.

Can I make them dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use vegan cheese and check that the crescent dough is dairy-free (some brands contain butter or milk derivatives).

Why are my mummies pale?
An egg wash gives a rich golden color. Without it, the dough may appear dull. Ensure your oven is properly preheated.

How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain crispness.

Summary

Mummy Pizza Pies are a delightfully spooky and delicious treat that combines classic pizza flavors with creative Halloween flair—perfect for ghoulish gatherings and family fun.

Easy to customize, simple to assemble, and universally loved, these edible mummies bring smiles, laughter, and tasty bites to every occasion.