Homemade Pizza Rolls (Printable)
Soft, cheese-filled rolls with tomato sauce and optional pepperoni — ideal warm party snack or family treat.
# What you'll need:
→ Dough
01 - 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
02 - 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
03 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
→ Filling
07 - 3/4 cup prepared pizza sauce
08 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices or chopped regular pepperoni (optional)
10 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, or mixed blend)
→ For Brushing
12 - 2 tablespoons melted butter
13 - 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# Directions:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, dissolve granulated sugar and active dry yeast in warm water. Allow mixture to stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a rough dough forms.
03 - Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and set in a warm location to rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in volume.
05 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 12x16 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
07 - Spread pizza sauce evenly over dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Distribute mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and pepperoni evenly on top.
08 - Working from the long side, roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
09 - Arrange the slices cut side up on prepared baking sheet with space between each roll.
10 - Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, until golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
11 - Combine melted butter with minced garlic, then brush over hot rolls immediately as they come out of the oven. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
12 - Serve the pizza rolls warm, with extra marinara or ranch dipping sauce if preferred.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- Pulling apart the first roll and seeing melty cheese stretch between the layers feels like a private victory.
- It’s the party snack my friends request most often since everyone can grab exactly as many as they want—no plates needed.
02 -
- I once rushed the rise and ended up with dense, heavy rolls—patience rewards you with cloud-like fluffiness.
- Letting the rolls cool for just a few minutes helps the cheese set and makes them much easier to pick up (and less likely to scorch your tongue).
03 -
- Baking on parchment means no stuck bottoms and easier cleanup—worth it every time.
- Adding a spoonful of garlic or herb butter just before serving makes the flavors pop and adds shine.