Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your kitchen into an irresistible Italian comfort food paradise! These legendary pepperoni rolls are more than just a recipe – they're a perfect blend of soft, pillowy dough and savory, melted cheese that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown roll packed with spicy pepperoni and gooey mozzarella, creating a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 12 rolls
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy and activates.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until the dough has doubled in size.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions on a floured surface.
- Flatten each portion of dough into a small rectangle, then layer pepperoni slices and shredded mozzarella cheese in the center.
- Carefully roll the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal and create a compact roll. Ensure no filling is exposed.
- Place the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each roll for expansion.
- Let the rolls rest and rise again for 15-20 minutes while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Yeast Activation is Key: Ensure your water is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast without killing it. The mixture should look frothy and alive.
- Kneading Matters: Take your time kneading the dough to develop gluten, which gives your rolls that perfect, soft texture.
- Rising Environment: Find a warm, draft-free spot for your dough to rise. A slightly warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot near a window works great.
- Seal Those Edges: When rolling, pinch the edges firmly to prevent cheese and pepperoni from leaking during baking.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give your rolls enough space on the baking sheet to expand and brown evenly.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melting performance and flavor.
- Serve Warm: These rolls are best enjoyed right out of the oven when the cheese is still melty and the dough is soft and warm.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
