This Pepperoni Roll recipe delivers soft buttery dough
Introduction to Pepperoni Roll RECIPE
Welcome to my absolute favorite Pepperoni Roll RECIPE that brings me back to my childhood! These soft, pillowy rolls stuffed with spicy pepperoni and gooey cheese have been a staple in my family for generations.
Growing up in the Midwest, I learned this Pepperoni Roll RECIPE from my Italian grandmother. Moreover, she would make these for every family gathering, and now I’m sharing her secrets with you! ️
The Pepperoni Roll RECIPE originated in West Virginia, where coal miners needed portable, hearty lunches. Furthermore, these rolls were perfect because they didn’t require refrigeration and could be eaten with one hand!
I’ve tested this recipe dozens of times to get it just right. Meanwhile, my family has declared these the best Pepperoni Roll RECIPE they’ve ever tasted!
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Pepperoni Roll RECIPE
- Simple ingredients – You probably have most items in your pantry already!
- Versatile serving options – Perfect for dinner, parties, or lunchboxes!
- Make-ahead friendly – Prep now, bake later when you’re ready!
- Kid-approved – Even picky eaters gobble these up!
- Freezer-friendly – Make a double batch and freeze for later! ️
This Pepperoni Roll RECIPE has saved me on countless busy weeknights. In addition, it’s become my go-to potluck contribution because it’s always the first dish to disappear!
Let’s Talk Ingredients
The beauty of this Pepperoni Roll RECIPE lies in its simple ingredients. However, each component plays an important role in creating that perfect flavor combination!
The Perfect Dough
For the best Pepperoni Roll RECIPE, I use a basic bread dough. First of all, you’ll need warm water, active dry yeast, sugar, flour, and a touch of salt.
The key to this Pepperoni Roll RECIPE dough is letting it rise properly. Therefore, don’t rush this step – patience yields soft, fluffy rolls! ️
Pepperoni Selection
For an authentic Pepperoni Roll RECIPE, choose good quality pepperoni. Subsequently, I prefer the slightly thicker-cut variety that releases just enough oil during baking.
You can find great pepperoni for this Pepperoni Roll RECIPE at most grocery stores. Alternatively, a specialty Italian deli will have amazing options!
Cheese Considerations
Mozzarella is traditional in this Pepperoni Roll RECIPE, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Additionally, I sometimes add a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or provolone for extra flavor depth.
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged. Consequently, I recommend taking the extra minute to shred your own for the best Pepperoni Roll RECIPE results!
How to Make Pepperoni Roll RECIPE
Making this Pepperoni Roll RECIPE is easier than you might think! To begin with, let’s prepare our dough and gather all our fillings.
Start by activating the yeast in warm water with sugar. After that, gradually add flour and salt until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until elastic. Then, place it in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for an hour until doubled.
Once risen, punch down the dough for your Pepperoni Roll RECIPE. Next, divide it into 12 equal portions and roll each into a rectangle.
Layer pepperoni and cheese on each rectangle. After that, roll up each piece tightly, pinching the seams closed to seal in all that goodness!
Place seam-side down on a baking sheet. Meanwhile, brush with egg wash and sprinkle with Italian herbs for extra flavor in your Pepperoni Roll RECIPE.
Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Finally, let cool slightly before serving your delicious Pepperoni Roll RECIPE!
7 Pro Tips for Kitchen Success
- Warm environment – For faster dough rising, place in a warm (not hot) oven that’s been turned off. ️
- Don’t overstuff – Too much filling makes your Pepperoni Roll RECIPE hard to seal and may cause leaking.
- Seal thoroughly – Pinch those seams completely to keep the cheesy goodness inside your rolls!
- Rest before baking – Let assembled rolls rest 15 minutes before baking for the best texture.
- Proper spacing – Leave about 2 inches between each roll to allow for expansion during baking.
- Check early – Start checking your Pepperoni Roll RECIPE at the 12-minute mark to prevent overbrowning.
- Serving suggestion – Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping these amazing pepperoni rolls!
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making your first Pepperoni Roll RECIPE, watch out for these common pitfalls! For instance, using water that’s too hot can kill your yeast completely.
Another mistake is using cold ingredients. Instead, allow cheese and pepperoni to come to room temperature for better melting in your Pepperoni Roll RECIPE.
Many bakers rush the rising process. However, this results in dense, heavy rolls rather than light, airy pepperoni bread that we’re aiming for!
Forgetting to grease your baking sheet is a common error. Consequently, your beautiful Pepperoni Roll RECIPE might stick and tear when removed!
Skipping the egg wash is tempting but unnecessary. Therefore, take the extra minute – it gives your Pepperoni Roll RECIPE that gorgeous golden shine!
FAQs About Pepperoni Roll RECIPE
Can I make the Pepperoni Roll RECIPE ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare them and refrigerate overnight before baking. Nevertheless, let them come to room temperature first.
Can I freeze my Pepperoni Roll RECIPE? Yes! Freeze after baking and cooling completely. Then, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes when ready to enjoy!
What can I serve with Pepperoni Roll RECIPE? These rolls pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, garden salad, or Italian wedding soup for a complete meal.
Can I add vegetables to my Pepperoni Roll RECIPE? Of course! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms make delicious additions to the classic recipe.
How do I store leftover Pepperoni Roll RECIPE? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, they can be frozen for up to 2 months!
Pepperoni Roll RECIPE Recipe
Prep time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook time: 18 minutes
Yields: 12 pepperoni rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 package (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110-115°F)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add remaining flour to form a soft dough.
- Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place in an oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a rectangle approximately 6×4 inches.
- Layer 5-6 slices of pepperoni on each rectangle, leaving a small border.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Roll up tightly, starting with the long edge. Pinch seams to seal.
- Place seam side down on greased baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
- Let rest for 15 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Brush hot rolls with melted butter.
- Let cool slightly before serving with marinara sauce if desired.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Pepperoni Roll RECIPE as much as I do! There’s something magical about the aroma of these rolls baking in your oven. ️
This Pepperoni Roll RECIPE has become a tradition in my home. Likewise, I hope it becomes one in yours too!
Don’t forget to experiment with your own variations of this pepperoni bread recipe. As a result, you might create a new family favorite!
Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure with my Pepperoni Roll RECIPE. Until next time, happy baking and enjoy every bite!