Chef Mitchell preparing Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread during my culinary travels in Italy. The combination of rich cheese and spicy pepperoni captivated my taste buds. After experimenting with various doughs and fillings, I've perfected this recipe to bring the authentic Italian flavor to your home kitchen. It's now one of my go-to recipes for gatherings!"

With over a decade of experience in Italian cuisine, I've honed my skills in creating delicious and authentic recipes. My passion lies in making Italian lunch dishes that are not only tasty but also simple to prepare. I believe that everyone should experience the joys of Italian cooking.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread served on a plate

Why This Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread Recipe Works

This Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread recipe stands out due to its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The soft, fluffy bread envelops a rich filling of melted cheese and spicy pepperoni, creating a perfect harmony. It's not just delicious; it's also visually appealing, making it a great addition to any table.

The technique of rolling the dough tightly ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. The addition of fresh basil brightens the dish, while the egg wash gives it a beautiful golden crust. The baking process infuses the bread with a wonderful aroma that will have everyone eager to dig in.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, allow the dough to rest for a few minutes after rolling it out. This relaxation period helps the gluten develop, making it easier to roll without springing back. Additionally, don’t skip the egg wash—this will enhance the color and texture of the crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread in advance. After cutting the slices, you can cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before baking for the best texture.

If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just be aware that cream cheese will be richer and denser, while cottage cheese will add a slight texture difference, but both will work well in this recipe.

The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and has a hollow sound when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, the cheese should be bubbling slightly out of the sides, indicating that it's perfectly cooked. A food thermometer should read at least 190°F (88°C) inside.

Absolutely! You can freeze the Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply bake from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

This bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, but you can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or antipasto platter. For a more filling meal, consider adding a bowl of tomato soup or a side of roasted vegetables.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For the best taste and texture, reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Definitely! You can prepare the bread up to the point of baking. Just cover the assembled bread with plastic wrap and refrigerate it, then bake it when ready. This makes it an excellent option for party planning or family gatherings.

The best way to reheat Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread is to place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore its crispy exterior while warming the cheese inside. You can also microwave individual slices, but this may make the bread slightly softer.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread turns out dry, it may be due to overbaking or using low-fat cheese.

Solution: To prevent dryness, keep an eye on baking time and use a blend of full-fat cheeses for a richer moisture content.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes the bread may not achieve the desired crispiness, which can happen if the oven temperature is too low or the bread is covered too early.

Solution: Ensure your oven is properly preheated and avoid covering the bread with foil until the last few minutes of baking to retain the crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can result in a hard texture and burnt edges.

Prevention: To prevent this, regularly check the bread a few minutes before the specified baking time and use an oven thermometer to verify the correct temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the bread is undercooked while the edges are browned, it may need more time in the oven.

Recovery: Cover the bread loosely with aluminum foil and return it to the oven to bake for a few more minutes until fully cooked.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oven temperature is too high or the bread is placed too close to the heating elements.

Prevention: To avoid this, position the bread in the center of the oven and consider lowering the temperature slightly to allow for even cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bread turns out too sweet, you might have added too much sugar or sweet ingredients.

Too Salty: For overly salty bread, use less salty cheese and balance with fresh herbs.

Bland: If the bread is bland, increase the seasoning in the filling with more herbs and spices.

Fresh ingredients for Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread

Essential Ingredients for Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread

The key ingredients for this Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread include pizza dough, a variety of cheeses, and delicious pepperoni. Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor, creating a satisfying eating experience. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan delivers both creaminess and tanginess.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for the best results. Fresh cheeses will enhance the taste significantly, while using authentic Italian pepperoni adds that distinctive spiciness. Always opt for fresh basil to elevate the flavors, as dried herbs do not provide the same aromatic quality.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Pizza Dough: For best results, use homemade pizza dough or a high-quality store-bought option. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling out, as this will make it more pliable and easier to shape.
  • Cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese not only enhances flavor but also improves texture. Consider using a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a stretchier, cheesier filling.
  • Pepperoni: Choose a good quality pepperoni for the best flavor. Look for brands that use natural spices and authentic seasoning for that classic pepperoni taste.
Cooking process for Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preparing the Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread is a straightforward process that results in a visually stunning and flavorful dish. Begin by rolling out the dough and adding the filling, then rolling it up tightly to create those enticing spirals. This method ensures that each slice reveals a beautiful swirl of cheese and pepperoni.

Baking the bread until golden brown not only enhances its appearance but also improves the flavor profile. The right technique in handling the dough and filling can make all the difference in achieving perfect results every time.

Key Technique for Perfect Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread

The most important technique for making Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread is rolling the dough tightly. This ensures a compact spiral that holds together well during baking. Additionally, using the right amount of filling is crucial; too much can cause the bread to unroll and too little can lead to bland bites.

Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
    For dipping
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
    Optional
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
    For garnish

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb pizza dough
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    Room temperature
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    For a gooey texture
  • 1 cup sliced pepperoni
    Spicy and savory
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For added flavor
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
    For freshness
  • 1 egg, beaten
    For egg wash
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. Prepare Dough

    Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.

  3. Mix Filling

    In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

  4. Add Pepperoni and Basil

    Fold in sliced pepperoni and chopped basil into the cheese mixture.

  5. Spread Filling

    Spread the cheese and pepperoni mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

  6. Roll Up Dough

    Starting from one end, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal.

  7. Slice the Log

    Cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices and place them cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

  8. Brush with Egg Wash

    Brush the tops of the spiral slices with the beaten egg to give them a golden color.

  9. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftover Pepperoni Cheese Spiral Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to 3 days. Ensure it's well-wrapped to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is best served warm, either on its own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Pair it with a light salad or antipasto platter for a complete meal. It's also great for picnics and parties.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fillings! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or substitute meats like ham or salami. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the pepperoni and add more cheese or vegetables.