The Art of Pepperoni Roll Perfection

Dough Preparation Mastery

Learning to roll dough to uniform thickness ensures even baking and consistent texture, preventing some rolls from being doughy while others become too crispy.

Strategic Filling Placement

Mastering the art of centering ingredients and using the right amount prevents leakage and ensures each bite has the perfect ratio of dough to filling.

Professional Rolling Technique

Understanding how to roll tightly and seal properly keeps the filling secure during baking while creating attractive, uniform rolls.

Butter Brush Application

Developing the skill to evenly coat each roll creates that beautiful golden color and enhances flavor without making the dough greasy or heavy.

Perfect Timing Recognition

Learning to identify when rolls are perfectly baked - golden brown with bubbling cheese - ensures you achieve the ideal texture every time.

Secrets to Perfect Pepperoni Roll Success

Dough Temperature: Allow refrigerated pizza dough to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling for easier handling and better texture.

Sealing Technique: Press the seams very firmly and tuck the ends underneath to prevent cheese leakage during baking, which can cause rolls to open.

Cheese Selection: Mix mozzarella with provolone or add sharp cheddar for more complex flavor, or use string cheese pieces for guaranteed cheese pull.

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare rolls completely, freeze unbaked on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months - bake from frozen adding 5 extra minutes.

Flavor Variations: Add sliced banana peppers, diced jalapeños, or cooked sausage crumbles to the filling for spicy kicks and heartier bites.

Preventing Sogginess: Don't overfill with cheese or the rolls may become soggy - stick to the recommended 2 tablespoons per roll for best results.

Homemade Pepperoni Rolls with Melted Mozzarella and Italian Herbs - Golden Baked Dough Bites

Name: Homemade Pepperoni Rolls with Melted Mozzarella and Italian Herbs - Golden Baked Dough Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: For the Dough:; 1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade, at room temperature; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for dusting; For the Filling:; 24 slices pepperoni; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Topping:; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; For Serving:; 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed; For Special Equipment:; Rolling pin; Sharp knife or pizza cutter; Baking sheet; Parchment paper

The ultimate pepperoni rolls featuring tender pizza dough, savory pepperoni slices, and gooey mozzarella cheese. This crowd-pleasing appetizer combines the rich flavors of Italian seasonings with the satisfying stretch of melted cheese, creating an unforgettable snacking experience that elevates the classic pizza roll to extraordinary heights perfect for game day parties, family movie nights, or any time you crave the perfect balance of crispy golden crust and cheesy pepperoni goodness.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

18 Minutes

Total Time

33 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Dough:

1 pound pizza dough, store-bought or homemade, at room temperature

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for dusting

For the Filling:

24 slices pepperoni

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Topping:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving:

1 cup marinara sauce, warmed

For Special Equipment:

Rolling pin

Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Baking sheet

Parchment paper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately 12x16 inches and about 1/4 inch thick.

Cut the dough into 12 equal rectangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, each measuring roughly 4x3 inches.

Place 2 pepperoni slices in the center of each rectangle, followed by about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the cheese on each piece.

Starting from the short end, roll each rectangle tightly around the filling, pinching the seam and ends firmly to seal completely.

Arrange the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder, then brush generously over each roll.

Sprinkle the tops with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and golden color.

Bake for 16-18 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling from the ends.

Remove from oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes before serving to avoid burning mouths with hot cheese.

Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy immediately for the best texture and cheese pull.

Homemade Pepperoni Rolls with Melted Mozzarella and Italian Herbs - Golden Baked Dough Bites

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Pepperoni Roll Perfection

Homemade Pepperoni Rolls with Melted Mozzarella and Italian Herbs - Golden Baked Dough Bites

Ingredients

Instructions