Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread

Step-by-Step Directions to Make Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread
Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to go.
Prepare the Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Spread the shredded mozzarella (or your cheese of choice) and pepperoni evenly over the dough. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning for an extra burst of flavor.
Roll the Dough: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Pinch the edges to seal the roll. If desired, cut the dough into smaller sections or leave it as one large loaf.
Final Rise: Place the dough on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the bread with egg wash for a golden crust (optional). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best experience.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread, it stores beautifully! Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it will last up to 5 days.

Reheating Tip: To reheat the bread, simply pop it into the oven for 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to refresh its crispiness.

Recipe Tips & Variations
Change the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack can add a unique flavor to your bread.
Add Veggies: Sneak in some vegetables like sliced bell peppers, olives, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
Spice it Up: For those who love spice, add a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese.
Different Meats: Don’t have pepperoni? Substitute it with salami, ham, or even cooked sausage for a different twist.

FAQs
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. The next day, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely. If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe.

3. Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, you can freeze the baked bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

4. What dipping sauces go well with this bread?
Marinara sauce or a garlic butter dip pairs wonderfully with this cheesy, pepperoni-filled bread.

Pairing Suggestions
This Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread pairs well with a variety of dishes and beverages. Serve it alongside a simple salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna for a hearty Italian-inspired feast. For drinks, a chilled beer or a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot complements the flavors nicely. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try it with a sparkling lemonade or iced tea.

Call to Action
This Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes like this one!