Welcome to your new favorite snack! These pepperoni rolls are a classic for a reason, especially in West Virginia where they originated. Our recipe makes them incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for busy parents and beginner bakers alike.
Tracing back to Italian immigrants in the coal mining regions of North Central West Virginia, the pepperoni roll’s history is deeply rooted in local culture.
Get ready to bake a delicious batch of these savory treats that your whole family will love. This guide covers everything from simple ingredients to storage tips.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Pepperoni Rolls
Making pepperoni rolls at home is a rewarding experience. You’ll quickly discover why they become a staple in your kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients & Preparation: This recipe uses readily available items, making it super accessible. Even beginner bakers can achieve perfect results with minimal fuss.
- Perfect for Snacks or Appetizers: Whether it’s a quick after-school snack or a party starter, these rolls fit every occasion. They are versatile and always a hit.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combination: The savory pepperoni, gooey cheese, and tender bread are an unbeatable trio. Everyone raves about this delicious classic.
- Great for On-the-Go Meals: Pack them in lunchboxes, take them on picnics, or enjoy them during road trips. These rolls are wonderfully portable and satisfying.
Ingredients
To make these delightful pepperoni rolls, you only need a few simple items.
- 16 ounces frozen bread dough, thawed (thaw according to package directions)
- 16 slices pepperoni (divided use)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese, cut into 4ths (divided use)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (divided use)
- 1 large egg, well beaten
- Splash of water
Notes & Substitutions
For the best pepperoni rolls, choosing quality ingredients helps. However, feel free to get creative with substitutions!
Frozen bread dough makes this recipe super fast. You can use any brand; just ensure it is fully thawed. For the pepperoni, classic slices work best, but you can also use mini pepperoni if you prefer. Consider spicy varieties for an extra kick! Mozzarella cheese offers a great melt, but provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious. Italian seasoning adds a wonderful aromatic touch; feel free to adjust the amount to your taste. The egg wash provides a beautiful golden brown crust and helps seal in the flavors.
Equipment
Gathering your tools before you start makes the baking process smoother.
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small bowl
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of homemade pepperoni rolls. It’s a straightforward process perfect for beginners.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a large sheet tray with parchment paper and set it aside. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze for your delicious bread rolls.
- Place the thawed bread dough onto a clean work surface. Carefully cut the dough into 8 equal parts. This ensures each of your pepperoni rolls is a consistent size.
- Flatten each dough piece to about a 4×4-inch diameter. You can simply use your hands to gently spread and flatten the dough. Don’t worry about perfection.
- Place 2 slices of pepperoni in the center of each flattened dough piece. You can add more pepperoni if you prefer a meatier roll, but avoid overfilling.
- Add 2 pieces of the cut mozzarella cheese directly on top of the pepperoni slices. This will create that lovely cheesy pull after baking.
- Lightly sprinkle the cheese with Italian seasoning. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking, adding more for a bolder flavor.
- Fold the two outer edges of the dough over the filling. Then, tightly roll the dough, pinching the seams together until they are securely sealed. This keeps all the yummy filling inside your pepperoni rolls.
- Place each roll seam-side down onto the prepared sheet tray. Make sure to leave some space between them so they bake evenly and don’t touch.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and a splash of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush the exposed bread dough of each roll with this mixture.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until your pepperoni rolls are beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Let the rolls cool for about 5 minutes on the tray before serving. They will be hot and need a moment to set. Serve with pizza or marinara sauce if you prefer.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving perfect pepperoni rolls every time is easy with a few simple tricks. Keep these tips in mind.
- Ensure dough is fully thawed: Cold, stiff dough is hard to work with. Let it come to room temperature for easier flattening and rolling.
- Avoid overfilling with cheese: Too much cheese can cause it to ooze out during baking. Stick to the recommended amount for gooey perfection.
- Roll dough tightly to prevent leaks: A firm, secure roll keeps all the delicious filling inside. Pinch those seams well!
- Achieve golden brown crust: The egg wash helps, but ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. A perfectly golden crust adds great texture.
- Adjust pepperoni/seasoning to taste: Don’t be afraid to customize! Add more or less pepperoni, or experiment with different herbs to make these rolls your own.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
These versatile pepperoni rolls are perfect for many occasions. You can serve them in different ways, store them for later, or even get creative with flavor variations.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your warm pepperoni rolls with a side of classic marinara sauce for dipping.
- Offer them with pizza sauce or a creamy ranch dressing.
- Enjoy them at room temperature for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack.
Storage Instructions
- Store any leftover pepperoni rolls in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate them for up to one week, perfect for grab-and-go meals.
- Freeze individually wrapped rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat for a fresh taste.
To ensure your pepperoni rolls remain delicious and safe to eat, always follow FDA guidelines for safe food handling when storing leftovers.
Flavor Variations
- Try different cheese combinations, like provolone, cheddar, or a spicy pepper jack.
- Substitute with other deli meats such as ham, turkey, or even cooked crumbled sausage.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes to the filling for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one of our homemade pepperoni rolls. This information helps you understand what’s in each delicious bite.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 215 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 36 mg |
| Sodium | 427 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0.2 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 2.4 g |
| Serving Size | 1 serving (1 roll) |
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why no marinara inside the rolls?
Traditional pepperoni rolls are usually made without sauce inside. They are best served with marinara or pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
Can I substitute the cheese or pepperoni?
Yes, absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite meats and cheeses. It’s a great way to customize these rolls.
Can these be prepared in advance?
Yes, these are perfect for meal prep! You can bake them ahead of time and enjoy them at room temperature or reheated later.
Conclusion
You now have everything you need to bake a batch of incredibly easy and delicious homemade pepperoni rolls. This recipe proves that making classic, comforting food doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a busy parent or just starting your baking journey, these savory treats are a perfect choice. Give these wonderful pepperoni rolls a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us!
Easy Pepperoni Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide thawed dough into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each into a 4×4-inch round.
- Place 2 slices of pepperoni and 2 cheese quarters in the center of each dough piece. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Fold and roll dough to seal filling. Pinch seams tightly. Place seam-side down on baking sheet.
- Whisk egg with a splash of water and brush over rolls.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
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