West Virginia Pepperoni Roll

If you’re craving something savory, handheld, and utterly delicious, look no further than the classic West Virginia Pepperoni Roll. A beloved regional specialty, this portable treat features warm, soft bread wrapped around savory pepperoni, making it the perfect snack, lunch, or party appetizer. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—this is comfort food at its finest!

Why You’ll Love West Virginia Pepperoni Rolls

• Simple but Delicious: Pepperoni and bread might seem like an unexpected combination, but the balance of the slightly spicy pepperoni with the soft, fluffy bread is pure magic.
• Portable and Convenient: These rolls are perfect for a quick lunch or an easy-to-pack snack on the go. You can even freeze them for later if you’re meal prepping.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, game day, or a picnic, these pepperoni rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and you’re in for a treat.
• Customizable: While the classic version is pepperoni and bread, you can easily add cheese, herbs, or even vegetables to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the bowl)

For the Filling:

• 1 package (about 6 ounces) pepperoni slices
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is active and ready to use!

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center, and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix everything together until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Assemble the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air, and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.

Evenly layer the pepperoni slices over the dough, and if you’re adding cheese or seasoning, sprinkle it on top of the pepperoni.

Starting from one edge of the dough, tightly roll it up into a log. Once it’s rolled up, slice the dough into individual rolls, about 1-2 inches thick.

3. Bake the Rolls

Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil for a golden, crispy crust.

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese (if using) is melted. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

4. Serve

Let the pepperoni rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, assuming 8 servings)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 8g

Tips for Making the Perfect West Virginia Pepperoni Rolls

• Use Fresh Yeast: Be sure your yeast is fresh and properly activated before you add it to the dough. This will ensure your rolls rise properly.
• Don’t Overstuff: When rolling up the dough, be sure not to overstuff it with pepperoni, as it might cause the rolls to unravel during baking.
• Cheese Options: If you love cheese, add a good amount of shredded mozzarella or provolone between the layers of pepperoni for extra melty goodness.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the rolls for up to 3 months—just reheat them in the oven when ready to eat.

How to Serve West Virginia Pepperoni Rolls

• As a Snack: Serve them on their own as a delicious, handheld snack for a quick bite during the day.
• For Lunch: Pair with a side salad or some veggies for a complete meal.
• At Parties: These are perfect for sharing! Serve with marinara sauce or ranch for dipping during your next get-together or game day.
• With Soup: Pair with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a cozy, comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can make the dough the night before, let it rise, then shape and bake the rolls the next day. You can also freeze the rolls before baking and then bake them when you’re ready.

Q2: Can I use a different type of meat?
A2: Absolutely! If you don’t like pepperoni, you can substitute with sausage, ham, or even bacon.

Q3: Can I freeze these pepperoni rolls?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the rolls before baking. Simply wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q4: Can I add other ingredients to the rolls?
A4: Definitely! You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A5: To reheat leftovers, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until they’re heated through and the crust is crispy again.

Q6: Can I make the dough by hand?
A6: Yes, you can! Just knead the dough by hand for about 7-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. The process is the same as using a stand mixer.

Q7: Can I make these rolls without cheese?
A7: Yes, the rolls are still delicious without cheese. The pepperoni gives enough flavor and moisture to the rolls on its own.

Q8: Can I make the dough with whole wheat flour?
A8: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit denser.

Q9: What if my dough doesn’t rise?
A9: If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to old yeast or not enough warmth for the dough to activate. Make sure your water temperature is around 110°F (43°C), and try placing the dough in a warm area to rise.

Q10: How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
A10: The rolls are done when they’re golden brown and the cheese (if used) is melted. You can also tap the top gently; if it sounds hollow, they’re done!

Conclusion

These West Virginia Pepperoni Rolls are a simple yet delicious treat that combines the flavors of pepperoni and soft, fluffy bread. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on your own. With this recipe, you’ll bring a little taste of West Virginia into your kitchen! Enjoy!

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