Pizza Pull Apart Rolls are the perfect fusion between a classic pizza and a beloved bread roll, delivering the rich and savory experience of pizza in an easy-to-share format. These rolls are an ideal appetizer for parties, a superb snack for an evening in, or a delightful side dish to accompany a meal. This delightful creation combines the universal love for pizza with the interactive fun of pull-apart bread, ensuring that each bite is a gooey, cheesy delight layered with flavors.
Ingredients for Pizza Pull Apart Rolls
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 2 teaspoons Platinum Yeast from Red Star*
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (180ml) whole milk
- 3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
- 2 and 3/4 cups (360g) bread flour (spooned & leveled), plus more as needed*
- 1 and 1/2 cups (135g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pepperoni (or more cheese)
- 1/2 cup (45g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pepperoni (or more cheese)
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- 4 ounces (113g) uncooked ground Italian sausage, optional
- 1/3 cup (50g) chopped green pepper, optional
- 2 Tablespoons (20g) sliced black olives, optional
- 2 Tablespoons (28g) butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional, for serving: pizza sauce, chopped fresh basil, crushed red pepper flakes
How to Make Pizza Pull Apart Rolls Directions
Creating Pizza Pull Apart Rolls might seem daunting at first, but with a clear guide, the process is both enjoyable and rewarding.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by placing the yeast and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook or paddle attachment. As an alternative, you can use a regular large mixing bowl if you do not have a stand mixer. Warm the milk to a touchable temperature, approximately 110°F (43°C), either on the stove or in a microwave. Pour the warm milk over the yeast and sugar mixture. Gently whisk to combine, then loosely cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
If you’re using a stand mixer, add the melted butter, egg, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and about one cup of the bread flour to the yeast mixture. Beat on low speed for one minute to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Continue by adding the remaining flour and increase the speed to medium. Mix until the dough comes together and starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl, which should take about two minutes. If the dough seems excessively wet, add more flour—one tablespoon at a time—until you achieve a workable dough that is soft and slightly sticky.
Step 3: Knead and Rise
Whether you choose to keep the dough in the stand mixer or knead by hand, kneading should continue for five full minutes. If needed, refer to kneading tutorials available online for guidance. During kneading, if the dough becomes too sticky, sprinkle a bit of flour—one teaspoon at a time—onto the dough or work surface. After kneading, test the dough’s readiness with the “windowpane test”: stretch a small piece until light passes through. If it does without tearing, the dough is ready to rise.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For optimal rising, place the bowl in a slightly warm environment until the dough doubles in size, about 60–90 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare and Assemble
Once the dough has risen, carefully punch it down to release air. Grease a suitable baking pan: a 9-inch square, a 9-inch springform pan, a 9×13-inch baking pan, or a 10-inch cast iron skillet work well. Mixing 1 and 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella with 1/2 cup of chopped pepperoni in a bowl, pinch off about 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of dough. Form small balls and create an indent in the center for stuffing with cheese and pepperoni. Seal the filling inside and place in the prepared pan, repeating until the pan is full. Let the dough rise once more for 30–45 minutes.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Preheat your oven and bake the assembled rolls until golden and thoroughly cooked. These rolls pair excellently with dipping sauces or can be garnished with fresh basil or grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.
How to Serve Pizza Pull Apart Rolls
These rolls are versatile, making them a hit regardless of how you choose to serve them.
Best Ways to Serve Pizza Pull Apart Rolls
Pizza Pull Apart Rolls are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a side of marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Offering an assortment of sides like a fresh garden salad can create a well-rounded meal experience.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair these rolls with a variety of dipping sauces such as garlic butter, ranch, or buffalo sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a hearty soup.
How to Store Pizza Pull Apart Rolls
Proper storage techniques will ensure that these rolls remain fresh and enjoyable for days.
Proper Storage Methods
After cooling, store Pizza Pull Apart Rolls in an airtight container or wrap them in aluminum foil to preserve freshness.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
These rolls can be frozen for extended storage. Simply wrap them securely in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat by thawing at room temperature, then warming in the oven for a crisp texture.
Tips to Make Pizza Pull Apart Rolls
Ensure your rolls are perfect every time with these handy tips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-kneading, which can make the dough tough. Conversely, don’t under-knead, as this can result in dense rolls. Adding too much flour can make the dough dry, so balance is key.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
Allow enough time for the dough to rise adequately, ensuring soft and fluffy rolls. Experiment with different fillings to suit your taste, and be mindful of your oven’s temperature for even baking.
Variation of Pizza Pull Apart Rolls
Explore the versatility of this recipe with exciting variations.
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for unique tastes. Add additional toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions for depth of flavor.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the pepperoni. Those with lactose intolerance can use dairy-free cheese alternatives, ensuring the rolls remain enjoyable for everyone.
FAQs
Get answers to common questions about making and perfecting Pizza Pull Apart Rolls.
What Can I Do If the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If the dough isn’t rising, check the expiration date of your yeast and ensure your place is warm enough for proofing. If the rolls are too dry, ensure precise measurements for ingredients.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls in advance, storing them in the refrigerator overnight for a slow proof. Bake them fresh, adjusting for any extra rising time.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
Feel free to substitute whole milk with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option, and replace traditional pepperoni with turkey or vegetarian options according to preference.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll master the art of crafting delicious Pizza Pull Apart Rolls, cementing your reputation as a culinary enthusiast who appreciates the fusion of flavors and shared enjoyment at the table.
