This Pizza Bread is a fun twist on traditional pizza! It’s made with fluffy bread topped with gooey cheese, pepperoni, and your favorite toppings. It’s perfect for a snack or a meal!
Making this is a breeze! I love popping it in the oven and enjoying that cheesy smell wafting through the house—nothing beats it! Plus, you can customize it however you like.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for making the dough rise. If you’re out, you can use instant yeast instead without changing the amount; it can be mixed directly with the flour.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives a good texture, but you can use bread flour for a chewier crust. If you need a gluten-free option, gluten-free flour blends can work too, just ensure they have xanthan gum in them.
Pizza Sauce: I love using store-bought pizza sauce for convenience, but you can stir in some Italian herbs into plain tomato sauce or use homemade sauce. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors!
Toppings: I used mini pepperoni because they fit perfectly on the bread, but you can swap them for any toppings you love: bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cooked sausage work well!
How Do I Get the Dough to Rise Perfectly?
Getting the dough to rise right is key for fluffy bread. After mixing your ingredients, you need to let it rise in a warm area. Here’s how to ensure it rises well:
- Use warm water (about 110°F) as this activates the yeast. Too hot can kill it, so check with a thermometer.
- Cover your bowl with a clean cloth to keep it warm and prevent drafts. An oven with just the light on can also work well.
- Wait until the dough doubles in size. This usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours; patience is key!
These steps will ensure your pizza bread has a fluffy texture—just the way we love it! Enjoy making this delicious treat!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup mini pepperoni slices
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Time Needed:
This tasty Pepperoni Pizza Bread will take you about 15 minutes for preparation, 1 to 1.5 hours for the dough to rise, and about 20 minutes for baking. In total, you should set aside about 2 hours to make and enjoy your delicious homemade pizza bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast:
Start by dissolving the yeast in the warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready to use!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Then, pour in the yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir everything together until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. Push it away with your palms, fold it, and turn it frequently until it feels smooth and elastic.
4. Let It Rise:
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place. Wait about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size!
5. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Once the dough has risen, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a rectangular baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
6. Shape the Dough:
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release some air. Then, press it evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring it creates a nice thick base.
7. Add the Sauce:
Spread your pizza sauce evenly over the dough, making sure every corner is covered. This will add that delicious pizza flavor!
8. Top It Off:
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Then, layer on the mini pepperoni slices, and finish it off with a sprinkle of dried oregano or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick.
9. Bake:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melting, bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown—this is the sign it’s ready!
10. Cool and Serve:
Remove the baking pan from the oven. Let it cool slightly before slicing into squares. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like for a fresh touch!
11. Enjoy!
Serve your Pepperoni Pizza Bread warm and enjoy this delightful twist on classic pizza! It’s great for sharing, snacking, or as a main dish!
Can I Use Different Toppings on My Pizza Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Pizza Bread with any toppings you love. Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms work great, as do different meats like sausage or ham. Just remember not to overload it too much, or it may not bake evenly!
What if My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure the yeast is fresh and that the water temperature is between 100°F and 110°F. If it feels lukewarm instead, it may not be warm enough to activate the yeast. Try a new batch or place your dough in a warmer spot for a better rise.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, wrap the Pizza Bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped in plastic; just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance! After kneading, cover it and place it in the refrigerator. Let it rise overnight, and then bring it back to room temperature before shaping it into the pan. This can help develop even more flavor!
