Name: Pepperoni and Cheese Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 3 h 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups hot water (100–110ºF); 2 envelopes active dry yeast (not instant); 4 tablespoons sugar; 1¾ tablespoons salt; Extra virgin olive oil (for the bowl and dough); 7-8 cups all-purpose flour; 16 ounces stick pepperoni (cut into 4-inch long sticks); 2 7-oz packages Andrew & Everett Muenster Cheese Thin Sliced; Cornmeal (for dusting baking sheets); 1 egg; 2 tablespoons water

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 28 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing, utterly delicious snack or party treat, look no further than this Pepperoni and Cheese Rolls Recipe. It’s a warm, comforting delight that wraps zesty pepperoni and melty Muenster cheese in a soft, homemade yeast dough that’s golden and crispy on the outside. Whether you’re thinking game-day grub, an easy appetizer, or just a fun way to enjoy a classic flavor combo, these rolls hit every note, from savory and satisfying to perfectly handheld and snackable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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All you need are a handful of simple, staple ingredients that work together to create this masterpiece. Each part plays a vital role—from the yeast that brings lightness and airiness to the dough, to the pepperoni and cheese that give each roll that rich, flavorful punch you crave.

Hot water (4 cups, 100–110ºF): Essential for activating the yeast without killing it, setting the dough’s rise in motion.
Active dry yeast (2 envelopes): The magical ingredient that makes the dough fluffy and full of life.
Sugar (4 tablespoons): Feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory fillings.
Salt (1¾ tablespoons): Enhances flavors and controls yeast activity for perfect dough texture.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the dough tender and moist.
All-purpose flour (7-8 cups): The backbone of the dough—plenty to develop gluten for structure and chew.
Pepperoni sticks (16 ounces, cut into 4-inch lengths): The star protein, bringing spicy, smoky flavor inside each roll.
Muenster Cheese (2 packages, thin sliced): Melts wonderfully and offers a mild, creamy counterpoint to the pepperoni.
Cornmeal: Sprinkled on baking sheets to keep rolls from sticking and adds a tiny bit of crunch.
Egg (1) and water (2 tablespoons): Whisked into an egg wash to give the rolls a shiny, golden crust.

How to Make Pepperoni and Cheese Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by warming the water to the perfect 100–110ºF range so the yeast wakes up gently. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it’s bubbly and alive—that’s your signal that the yeast is ready to work its magic in the dough.

Step 2: Make the Yeast Sponge

Mix the sugar and salt into the yeast water to feed and balance the yeast. Add just a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of flour on top, then cover with plastic wrap. Setting this mixture aside in a warm spot from half an hour to a full day gives it time to develop a thick, bubbly sponge—the flavor foundation of your rolls.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

Add flour gradually to your yeast sponge, stirring each cup in to build a thick, ragged mix. The goal here is to reach a stage where the dough is tough to stir and ready to handle by hand. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, adding flour as needed to keep it from sticking but not drying out. Kneading develops the gluten, giving you that perfect chewiness every roll needs.

Step 4: Rest the Dough

Coat your mixing bowl with olive oil to keep the dough from sticking and place your kneaded dough inside. Cover it and let it rise for about an hour in a warm spot—this is where the dough doubles in size, becoming airy and stretchy for shaping.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

After punching down the dough to release big air pockets, sprinkle two baking sheets liberally with cornmeal. Tear off pieces roughly the size of tennis balls, then flatten each slightly into an oblong shape. Fold a slice of Muenster cheese and place it on the dough, then lay 4 pepperoni sticks on top. Carefully wrap the dough around the fillings and pinch it closed in the center, making sure the cheese stays away from the seal to prevent leaks while baking.

Step 6: Let the Rolls Rest

Place the shaped rolls on your prepared sheets, leaving space between each. Cover them lightly and let them rest for 30 minutes, giving the dough one last chance to puff up and become tender before baking.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Whisk together your egg and water for an egg wash, then brush it gently over each roll’s surface for that irresistible golden shine. Bake at 425ºF for about 20 minutes until the tops are deep golden brown and the crust is nicely crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly—resisting a bite while warm is a true test of patience!

How to Serve Pepperoni and Cheese Rolls Recipe

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Garnishes

Simple is best here—serve these rolls warm, maybe with a light sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor, or a dusting of grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy touch. A side of marinara sauce for dipping amps up the Italian vibe wonderfully.

Side Dishes

These rolls are hearty on their own, but pairing them with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables balances out the indulgence beautifully. For a party spread, a bowl of Caesar salad or some garlic-roasted potatoes also complement the pepperoni and cheese perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a large platter with small ramekins of dipping sauces in the center—think spicy marinara, garlic butter, or ranch dressing. You could even slice the rolls in half diagonally to make mini sliders, perfect for serving at gatherings or packing in lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover pepperoni and cheese rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep the container sealed tightly to maintain their soft, fresh texture.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! After baking and cooling completely, wrap each individually in plastic wrap and place them inside a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months—perfect for a make-ahead snack or last-minute party treat.

Reheating

To enjoy your pepperoni and cheese rolls like fresh-baked, reheat them in a preheated 350ºF oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to make the crust a little soggy. The oven will restore that irresistible crispy exterior and melty cheese inside.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Muenster cheese melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that balances the pepperoni, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, provolone, or even cheddar for a sharper bite.

Is it necessary to let the dough sponge sit overnight?

Not at all. While letting the sponge ferment longer enhances flavor and develops a more complex texture, you can move forward after 30 minutes if you’re short on time and still get delicious rolls.

Can I prepare these rolls without the pepperoni?

Yes, these rolls can be made vegetarian by swapping the pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, roasted peppers, or even spinach. The cheese and dough combo alone makes for a tasty treat.

How do I avoid cheese leaking out during baking?

Make sure to place the cheese toward the center of the dough and seal the edges tightly. Using a bit of water to help the dough stick when sealing will reduce leakage, keeping your rolls tidy.

What is the best way to serve these at parties?

Serve them warm on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces nearby. You can also cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy finger food that’s sure to disappear fast!

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Pepperoni and Cheese Rolls Recipe is one you’ll want to keep coming back to. It’s an unbeatable mix of molten cheese, spicy pepperoni, and pillowy dough that brings comfort and joy at every bite. Whether you’re serving friends, family, or just treating yourself, these rolls are an absolute delight and so worth every step of the process. Give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!