Homemade Pizza Rolls Recipe

Combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a small bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

Add the foamy yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until a shaggy dough forms.

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 6–8 minutes (or use a stand mixer with dough hook 4–5 minutes) until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45–60 minutes.

While the dough rises, prepare the filling: dice the pepperoni into small pieces and shred the mozzarella if not pre-shredded.

In a bowl, combine diced pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan (if using), garlic powder, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix gently to distribute seasonings.

Taste a small pinch of the mixture (if safe) and adjust seasoning as desired. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pizza sauce for brushing inside rolls and the remainder for serving.

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease with nonstick spray or oil.

Turn the risen dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Press or roll into a rectangle approximately 10 x 12 inches and about 1/4-inch thick.

Spread a thin layer (about 3–4 tbsp) of pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border on one long side for sealing.

Evenly distribute the pepperoni / cheese filling over the sauced dough, leaving the same 1/2-inch border.

Starting at the long side opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam and ends to seal.

Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, slice the log into 12 equal rolls (about 1 inch each). Place the rolls cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, about 1/2 inch apart.

Whisk together the beaten egg and 1 tsp water to make an egg wash. Brush the tops of each roll with the egg wash to promote browning. Optionally brush a little melted butter over tops for extra flavor after baking.

Bake in the preheated oven 15–18 minutes, or until rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from oven and let rest 3–5 minutes. If using, brush tops with melted butter immediately for shine and flavor.

Serve warm with the reserved pizza sauce for dipping.