Pepperoni rolls are a popular snack in West Virginia, consisting of soft bread rolls filled with spicy pepperoni. They are perfect for lunches, snacks, or parties and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Follow this classic recipe to create delicious homemade pepperoni rolls that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
For the Filling:
- 8 ounces sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
For Brushing:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
3. Prepare the Pepperoni Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size.
- Cut the dough into 12 equal rectangles.
- Place a few slices of pepperoni on each rectangle, along with a small handful of shredded mozzarella cheese if using.
- Roll each rectangle up from the short end, enclosing the pepperoni and cheese inside. Pinch the seams and ends to seal.
4. Bake the Pepperoni Rolls:
- Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the pepperoni rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Lunchbox Favorite: Pack pepperoni rolls in lunchboxes for a tasty and portable meal.
- Party Snack: Serve at parties or gatherings with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Quick Meal: Pair with a side salad or soup for a quick and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Variations: Experiment with different fillings such as ham and cheese, sausage and peppers, or veggies and cheese.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella is classic, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover pepperoni rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy and Versatile: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe easy to follow, and the rolls can be customized to suit your preferences.
- Delicious and Portable: Pepperoni rolls are perfect for on-the-go snacking, making them ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, and road trips.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These savory rolls are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults, thanks to their irresistible combination of soft bread and spicy pepperoni.
Conclusion:
Homemade pepperoni rolls are a delicious and convenient snack that can be enjoyed anytime. With this classic recipe, you can create soft, flavorful rolls filled with pepperoni and cheese, perfect for lunches, parties, or just as a tasty treat. Try making these pepperoni rolls at home and enjoy the delightful flavors of this West Virginia favorite!