This pizza bread is the perfect snack or meal! It’s loaded with cheesy goodness, pepperoni, and all your favorite pizza toppings, wrapped in warm, fluffy bread.
It’s like pizza but easier to eat, and who can resist that melty cheese? I love serving it with marinara sauce for dipping—such a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is vital for the dough to rise. If you can’t find active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast. Just mix it directly with the flour and skip the foaming step.
Warm Water: The temperature is important for activating the yeast. If you don’t have a thermometer, aim for a temperature similar to a warm bath—just not too hot! Cold water won’t activate the yeast.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your dough. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using bread flour which will give a chewier texture. Gluten-free flour blends can also work if needed, just ensure they contain a binding agent.
Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite pizza sauce or marinara. If you’re out of sauce, crushed tomatoes with a pinch of salt, oregano, and garlic make a quick substitute.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for different flavors. Vegan cheese works great too if you need a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Dough to Rise Perfectly?
Letting the dough rise properly is crucial for fluffy pizza bread. Here’s how to ensure it rises well:
- Choose a warm spot, away from drafts. An oven with the light on or near a sunny window works well.
- Make sure the bowl is lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Cover it with a damp towel to maintain moisture.
- Waiting longer is okay! If it hasn’t doubled in size after 1.5 hours, give it another 30 minutes.
Patience is key here for that perfect texture, so don’t rush this step!
How to Make Delicious Pepperoni Pizza Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for pan
- 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 30-40 slices mini pepperoni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pizza bread takes about 15 minutes of active prep time and 1.5 hours for the dough to rise. Bake it for about 20-25 minutes, making the total time around 2 hours from start to finish. Perfect for a snack or a meal with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy. This means your yeast is good and ready to rise your dough!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and the olive oil. Stir everything together until you have a rough dough.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. Keep kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten and gives your bread that perfect chewy texture.
4. Let It Rise:
Lightly oil a large bowl and place the kneaded dough inside. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is magic in action!
5. Prep for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly oil a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will ensure your pizza bread comes out easily when it’s baked.
6. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Press it evenly into the prepared pan. Use your fingers to make dimples all over the dough. This adds a fun texture and helps it cook evenly!
7. Add the Sauce:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the top of the dough. Make sure you cover the entire surface for that delicious flavor in every bite.
8. Cheese and Toppings:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, making sure to cover it well. Then, arrange the mini pepperoni slices evenly on top. If you like, sprinkle on some dried oregano and garlic powder for extra flavor!
9. Bake It:
Pop the pizza bread in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pizza bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut it into squares and serve warm, with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping if you like. Enjoy your homemade pepperoni pizza bread!
Your family and friends are going to love this—crispy on the edges, fluffy in the center, and packed with cheesy goodness and pepperoni on top!
Can I Use Store-Bought Dough Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought pizza dough. Roll it out and follow the same steps for shaping, topping, and baking. Adjust the baking time based on the package instructions.
What Variations Can I Try?
You can customize this pizza bread with your favorite toppings! Consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or cooked sausage. For a vegetarian option, load it with extra veggies or use different types of cheese.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, but it may lose some crispiness.
Can I Freeze This Pizza Bread?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap the pizza bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
