Mountain State Pepperoni Rolls

Cuisine: American Type: Sandwich/Wrap

Representative image. Recipe yield may differ

Amounts

Ingredient

Amount (g)

Flour

3 cups (360)

Sugar

1 tablespoon (12)

Salt

1 teaspoon (6)

Active Dry Yeast

2 teaspoons (8)

Water

1.5 cups (360)

Pepperoni

1.5 cups (180)

Mozzarella Cheese

2 cups (240)

Butter

4 tablespoons (56)

Totals

43 oz (1,222 g)

Calories

Ingredient

Calories (kcal)

Flour

455

Yeast

Water

Salt

Pepperoni

140

Cheese

110

Butter

102

Sugar

Egg

Totals

955 kcal

Steps

Step 1: Preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the pizza dough package.

Step 2: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape.

Step 3: Place pepperoni slices evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 4: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni slices.

Step 5: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape, sealing the edges as you go.

Step 6: Cut the log into individual rolls, about 2 inches wide.

Step 7: Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.

Step 8: Brush the rolls with melted butter or olive oil for a golden crust.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for the time indicated on the pizza dough package, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and let the pepperoni rolls cool slightly before serving.

Step 11: Enjoy the delicious Mountain State Pepperoni Rolls as a snack, appetizer, or party food!

Substitutions

- For the dough:
- All-purpose flour: Substitute with bread flour or whole wheat flour. Adjust the quantity as needed to achieve the desired consistency of the dough.
- Active dry yeast: Substitute with instant yeast. Use the same quantity as mentioned in the recipe.
- Sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup. Use the same quantity as mentioned in the recipe.
- Salt: No substitution needed.

- For the filling:
- Pepperoni: Substitute with salami or any cured meat of your choice, such as ham or turkey. Adjust the quantity as per your preference.
- Mozzarella cheese: Substitute with any other melting cheese like cheddar or provolone. Adjust the quantity as needed.
- Garlic powder: Substitute with fresh minced garlic or onion powder. Adjust the quantity according to taste.
- Italian seasoning: Substitute with dried oregano or a mixture of dried basil, thyme, and rosemary. Adjust the quantity as per your preference.

- For the egg wash:
- Egg: No substitution needed.
- Water: No substitution needed.

- For the dipping sauce (optional):
- Marinara sauce: Substitute with any tomato-based pasta sauce or salsa. Adjust the quantity as needed.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Substitute with hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Adjust the quantity according to taste.

Note: Adjustments in preparation may be required based on personal taste preferences and the availability of ingredients.

Pairings

- Tomato soup
- Italian salad
- Garlic bread
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella sticks
- Buffalo chicken wings
- Craft beer
- Root beer
- Iced tea

Upgrades

Enhancements for Mountain State Pepperoni Rolls:
1. Improve Presentation:
- Brush the rolls with melted butter before baking to give them a glossy finish.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top of the rolls for added texture and visual appeal.
- Serve the rolls on a bed of arugula or mixed greens for a fresh and vibrant presentation.

2. Improve Texture/Flavor Profile:
- Add a layer of melted mozzarella or provolone cheese inside the rolls for a gooey and cheesy center.
- Mix minced garlic or Italian herbs into the dough to infuse extra flavor.
- Brush the rolls with garlic-infused olive oil after baking for a subtle garlic kick.

3. Elevate with Luxurious Ingredients:
- Use high-quality artisanal pepperoni or spicy salami instead of regular pepperoni for a more premium and flavorful experience.
- Replace the regular all-purpose flour with Italian 00 flour to achieve a softer and more delicate texture.
- Incorporate truffle oil into the dough or use truffle-infused pepperoni for a luxurious and indulgent twist.

Diet Restrictions

1. Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free dough instead of regular white flour dough to accommodate individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
2. Use turkey or chicken pepperoni instead of traditional pork pepperoni to reduce saturated fat and cholesterol content.
3. Incorporate low-fat cheese or dairy-free alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.
4. Add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to increase fiber and nutrient content.
5. Consider using lean ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to high-fat ground beef.
6. Reduce the amount of salt or use low-sodium ingredients to cater to individuals on a low-sodium diet.
7. Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance flavor without relying heavily on salt or processed seasonings.
8. Serve with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal and add more nutrients.
9. Control portion sizes to promote moderation and prevent overeating.
10. Provide a gluten-free or whole grain option for the bread crumbs used in the recipe to accommodate those with gluten sensitivity or who prefer a healthier alternative.

Healthy Choices

- Use whole wheat or whole grain dough instead of white dough for the rolls.
- Opt for leaner meats such as turkey pepperoni or chicken sausage instead of regular pepperoni.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the filling for added nutrients and fiber.
- Use reduced-fat or part-skim cheese instead of full-fat cheese to reduce saturated fat content.
- Brush the rolls with olive oil instead of butter for a healthier fat option.
- Serve the pepperoni rolls with a side of marinara sauce made from fresh tomatoes instead of using store-bought sauces that may contain added sugars or preservatives.
- Consider baking the rolls instead of frying them to reduce the overall calorie and fat content.
- Serve with a side salad or fresh fruit to add more vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the meal.

Shortcuts

1. Opt for store-bought pizza dough: Using pre-made pizza dough can significantly save time and effort in preparing the dough from scratch while maintaining the authentic taste of Mountain State Pepperoni Rolls.

2. Use pre-sliced pepperoni: Instead of slicing the pepperoni yourself, purchase pre-sliced pepperoni from the grocery store. This eliminates the need for extra time and equipment for slicing, without compromising on flavor.

3. Consider frozen dough: If you're looking for an even quicker option, frozen bread or roll dough can be a convenient alternative to making the dough from scratch. Thaw the dough according to package instructions before use.

4. Bulk purchase ingredients: Buying pepperoni and other necessary ingredients in larger quantities can often be more cost-effective. Look for deals or discounts at your local grocery store or consider purchasing from a wholesale supplier.

5. Experiment with cheese alternatives: While traditional Mountain State Pepperoni Rolls use mozzarella cheese, you can experiment with more affordable cheese options such as cheddar or a blend of cheeses to reduce costs without losing the delicious taste.

6. Make in advance and freeze: Prepare a larger batch of pepperoni rolls and freeze them for later consumption. This allows you to save time by having ready-to-bake rolls on hand whenever needed.

7. Utilize a convection oven: If available, using a convection oven can decrease cooking time by distributing heat evenly and ensuring faster and more efficient baking.

8. Miniaturize the rolls: Instead of making large pepperoni rolls, consider making smaller, bite-sized versions. This reduces baking time and allows for quicker preparation.

9. Explore alternative fillings: While pepperoni is the classic filling, you can experiment with other affordable options such as cooked ground meat, diced vegetables, or even vegetarian fillings to reduce costs and add variety.

10. Share the workload: If possible, involve family or friends in the preparation process. Dividing tasks can save time and make the process more enjoyable while still achieving the desired taste.