Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a delicious, cheesy, and savory snack, these pepperoni and cheese rolls made from frozen bread dough are a perfect choice. They are easy to prepare, and the combination of melted mozzarella, parmesan, and zesty pepperoni make for an irresistible bite. Ideal for parties, game days, or simply as a comforting treat, these rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 pounds frozen bread dough (3 one-pound loaves), thawed
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend, divided
¾ teaspoon garlic salt, divided
1 pound deli-style pepperoni slices (75-90 slices), divided
3 cups whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
¾ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
3-5 hours for thawing dough (or overnight in the refrigerator)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 3-5 hours (including dough thawing time)
Yield: Approximately 24 pieces (3 loaves sliced into 8 pieces each)
Follow these detailed instructions to create tasty and satisfying rolls that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for sharing or indulging on your own!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Thaw the Dough
Thaw the bread loaves according to package directions until the dough has doubled in size. This may take 3-5 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Adjust the baking rack to the center position.
Roll Out the Dough
On a clean work surface, roll out one thawed bread loaf to approximately 12×14 inches and ¼ inch thickness. If the dough sticks, lightly dust with about 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. If the dough pulls back while rolling, let it rest for 2-3 minutes before continuing.
Brush with Butter
Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the surface of the rolled dough with about 1 tablespoon of melted butter, leaving a ½-inch border along the edges.
Season the Dough
Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of Italian seasoning blend and ¼ teaspoon of garlic salt evenly over the buttered surface.
Add Pepperoni
Lay 25-30 slices of pepperoni, slightly overlapping, over the seasoned dough, leaving a ½–¾ inch border on one of the short sides to ensure proper sealing.
Add Cheese
Top the pepperoni with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, spreading them evenly.
Roll the Dough
Starting at the short end opposite the border, gently roll the dough into a log, sealing the edge by pressing the plain border to the dough. Place the roll seam-side down on an ungreased baking sheet.
Repeat the Process
Repeat steps 3-8 with the remaining two loaves, spacing each roll 2-3 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for rising.
Brush and Bake
Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and bake on the center rack for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Finish and Garnish
Remove from the oven and brush again with melted butter. If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish.
Cool and Serve
Allow the rolls to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing each into 8 pieces. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Dough Thawing Tips
For best results, thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator if time allows.
Rolling Tips
If the dough is difficult to roll out, ensure your work surface is adequately floured to prevent sticking.
Spacing on Baking Sheet
Maintain adequate spacing between rolls on the baking sheet to allow room for rising during baking.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to mix different types of cheeses based on personal preference for added flavor.
Storage
Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Cook techniques
Thawing Bread Dough
Thaw frozen bread dough either at room temperature for 3-5 hours or overnight in the refrigerator until it has doubled in size.
Rolling Dough
Roll each thawed loaf on a clean surface to a thickness of approximately ¼ inch. Use a little all-purpose flour if the dough sticks, and let it rest 2-3 minutes if it pulls back while rolling.
Preparing the Surface
Brush the rolled dough with melted butter, leaving a ½-inch border along the edges to ensure proper sealing after rolling.
Layering Ingredients
Evenly sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic salt over the buttered dough, followed by overlapping pepperoni slices, and then top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Rolling the Dough
Start rolling the dough from the edge opposite the border, sealing it by pressing the plain edge to the dough once rolled.
Baking the Rolls
Place the rolls seam-side down on a baking sheet, brush the tops with melted butter, and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown.
Cooling and Slicing
Allow the baked rolls to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing each roll into 8 pieces for serving.
FAQ
Can I use fresh bread dough instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh dough can be used, but you may need to adjust the rising and baking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for pepperoni?
You can substitute other deli meats such as salami or turkey, or use a vegetarian alternative.
Can I add other cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for varied flavors.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls and assemble them ahead of time, then refrigerate before baking. Allow them to rise before baking.
What dipping sauces work well with these rolls?
Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter are great options for dipping.
Conclusion
These delightful pepperoni rolls are a perfect crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavors of melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and aromatic herbs, all wrapped in soft bread dough. They make an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a main dish paired with dipping sauces, and are sure to impress your family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Buffalo Chicken Roll-ups
Substitute pepperoni with shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, and add a mix of mozzarella and blue cheese for a spicy twist.
Vegetable Pizza Rolls
Fill the rolls with a medley of sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach along with mozzarella and Parmesan for a vegetarian option.
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
Replace pepperoni with thinly sliced ham and add sliced pickles along with Swiss cheese for a delicious ham and cheese flavor.
BBQ Meatball Rolls
In place of pepperoni, use cooked meatballs coated in barbecue sauce and top with shredded cheddar cheese for a hearty snack.
Italian Sausage and Peppers
Fill the rolls with crumbled cooked Italian sausage, sautéed bell peppers, and onions along with provolone cheese for an Italian-themed treat.
