Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly. This step ensures the yeast is activated and ready to rise.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir everything together until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You may need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
4. Let It Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cheese and Pepperoni: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by combining the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped pepperoni in a bowl. If you like a little extra spice, add the crushed red pepper flakes and garlic powder to the mixture. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangular shape, about 12 inches by 18 inches.
2. Add the Filling: Sprinkle the cheese and pepperoni mixture evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Make sure the filling is spread out evenly so each bite will have the perfect combination of cheese and pepperoni.
3. Roll the Dough: Starting from one edge of the rectangle, carefully roll the dough up like a jelly roll or cinnamon roll, making sure the filling stays inside. Pinch the edges to seal the dough and tuck the ends under to form a loaf shape.
4. Place in the Pan: Transfer the rolled-up dough into a greased loaf pan, seam-side down. Cover the pan with a towel and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush with Butter: After the dough has risen, brush the top with melted butter. This will give the bread a golden, shiny finish while baking. If you love extra cheese, you can sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the bread for an additional layer of cheesy goodness.
3. Bake: Place the bread in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature of the bread should reach about 190°F (88°C) for the perfect texture.
4. Cool: Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly before slicing.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Slice the Bread: Once the bread has cooled slightly, slice it into thick, hearty pieces. The interior will be filled with melted cheese and bits of pepperoni, making each bite a savory delight.
2. Serve: Serve this bread warm as a side dish with pasta, salads, or soups, or enjoy it as a standalone snack with your favorite dipping sauce. It’s also perfect for a party appetizer or game day treat.

Why You’ll Love Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread

• Flavor-packed: The combination of gooey cheese and savory pepperoni makes each slice a burst of flavor. The spices and herbs in the filling bring extra depth, while the melted cheese creates a rich, comforting experience.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the filling to suit your tastes. Add more types of cheese, use spicy Italian sausage instead of pepperoni, or incorporate other fillings like olives, bell peppers, or onions for additional flavor.
• Easy to Make: While it may seem like a complex recipe, making Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread is surprisingly easy and requires minimal ingredients. The rise time gives you plenty of opportunity to prepare other parts of your meal.
• Great for Sharing: This bread is perfect for sharing with friends and family. It’s a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, and it also makes for a fun and delicious homemade gift.

Tips for the Perfect Savory Bread

• Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh to ensure the dough rises properly. If the yeast mixture doesn’t bubble or froth after 5 minutes, your yeast may be expired, and you’ll need to use a fresh packet.
• Let the Dough Rise: Don’t rush the rising times. The dough needs to rise to develop its flavor and texture, so allow it to rest until it has doubled in size.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try using different combinations of cheese to create your ideal flavor. Provolone, gouda, or fontina can all add a wonderful depth of flavor to the bread.

Conclusion

Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread is an irresistibly delicious, cheesy treat that will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of melted cheese, spicy pepperoni, and soft, homemade bread is truly satisfying, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, pairing it with a meal, or serving it at a party, this bread is sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and savor every cheesy, pepperoni-filled bite!