Pizza Skulls

Pizza skulls are the perfect blend of creepy and comforting. I made them once for a Halloween movie night, expecting a fun gimmick—but they vanished off the table faster than any other snack. The cheesy filling and golden crust shaped like skulls made them an instant hit, especially with kids who love spooky food.

To make these, I use a skull-shaped baking mold (usually silicone) and fill each one with pizza dough, marinara, mozzarella, and mini pepperoni. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings—think mushrooms, sausage, or olives for added “eyeball” effects.

Ingredients

Refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade)

• Marinara or pizza sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Mini pepperoni or cooked sausage
• Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
• Optional: chopped bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, or any preferred toppings

Tools You’ll Need

• Skull-shaped silicone baking mold
• Small spoon
• Pastry brush
• Baking tray (if using individual molds)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your skull mold.

Step 2

Cut the pizza dough into pieces large enough to line each skull cavity with extra hanging over the edges.

Step 3

Gently press the dough into each mold cavity. Make sure it forms tightly into the skull details.

Step 4

Add a spoonful of marinara sauce, then layer in cheese and pepperoni (or any toppings you like). Don’t overfill.

Step 5

Fold the overhanging dough over the filling to seal it, pinching the edges if needed.

Step 6

Brush the tops with olive oil or butter for a golden finish.

Step 7

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8

Let them cool slightly before unmolding. Serve warm and watch the cheesy goodness ooze out with each bite.

Tips

I like to pre-cook any watery veggies (like mushrooms) to prevent sogginess. For a crispier crust, bake the filled mold on a preheated baking tray. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top for a bubbly skull cap effect.

Variations

Spicy Skulls: Add crushed red pepper and jalapeños for heat.

Veggie Skulls: Use spinach, mushrooms, and olives for a vegetarian version.

Breakfast Skulls: Fill with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.

Fun Serving Ideas

Serve these on a tray with a “bloody” marinara dipping sauce. They make an awesome centerpiece for a Halloween dinner, party snack table, or themed lunchbox surprise. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?

Yes, crescent dough works great for a softer, flakier result.

Do I need a special mold?

A skull-shaped mold is key for the spooky shape, but you can also use round muffin tins and decorate with cut-outs.

How long do they keep?

Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for 2–3 days in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

Enjoy the Frightful Feast

Pizza skulls are a Halloween classic in my house—fun to make, even better to eat, and sure to impress. Try different fillings and share the spooky fun with friends and family. You won’t regret adding these terrifyingly tasty treats to your Halloween spread.

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