Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls

Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls are the answer when you need an easy appetizer or a savory snack everyone loves These buttery rolls are bursting with oozy mozzarella and smoky pepperoni all wrapped up in golden flaky dough Super easy to make with ingredients from the fridge they quickly became a go to recipe for my movie nights and kids’ after school treats

My first batch disappeared before I could grab a second one for myself Now I bake double because friends and family always ask for more

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough: Look for the kind that bakes up extra flaky This forms the soft buttery wrapping for the filling
• Mozzarella cheese sticks: Choose whole milk mozzarella for the stretchiest melt Slice in half so the cheese fits perfectly inside each roll
• Pepperoni slices: Go for the classic round style from the deli which offers the right little kick and crisp edges as they bake
• Italian seasoning: A must for extra flavor and that bakery fresh aroma Use a good blend with oregano and basil for best taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper You want that high heat so the dough puffs up and browns quickly while the cheese melts inside

Shape the Rolls:

Unroll the crescent dough and gently separate it into eight triangles If the sheets are sticky a bit of flour on your hands helps Handle carefully so you do not compress the layers

Fill with Pepperoni and Cheese:

Lay four slices of pepperoni near the wide end of each triangle Place a half mozzarella stick on top of the pepperoni Center everything so the cheese stays sealed during baking

Roll Up and Seal:

Starting at the wide end roll each triangle tightly toward the tip Tuck in the sides as you roll to create a good seal This helps contain all that bubbly cheese even if some sneaks out

Season the Tops:

Lightly dust each roll with Italian seasoning for a savory flavor boost and that beautiful herb flecked top

Bake Until Golden:

Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet with tip side down Bake for ten to twelve minutes until golden brown and crescent dough is cooked through Rotate the pan if needed for even browning

Cool and Serve:

Let the rolls cool for about five minutes before serving so the cheese firms up a bit and does not scorch your mouth

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My favorite part is using good mozzarella because nothing beats that stretch when you pull one apart My nephew now volunteers to roll them every time so we can sneak extra cheese inside It has become our standing family joke and tradition

Storage Tips

To keep leftovers fresh cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days If you want to reheat pop them in the oven or toaster oven so they crisp back up The microwave works in a pinch but the dough will be softer Freeze unbaked rolls wrapped tightly for up to two months then bake straight from the freezer adding a few extra minutes to the time

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone depending on what you have Always pick a cheese that melts well Use turkey pepperoni or vegetarian slices for a lighter version Crescent roll dough can be replaced with your favorite biscuit dough or even puff pastry in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls on a snack board with marinara ranch or garlic butter for dipping They go great alongside a big salad for lunch or as a party starter Try slicing them for game day snacks or plating with olives and roasted veggies for an easy Italian inspired spread

Cultural and Historical Context

These rolls riff on classic pizza flavors but put them in holiday worthy appetizer form Crescent dough became popular in the US as a quick shortcut for busy cooks and is now a base for dozens of creative snacks Kids especially love the pizza and croissant hybrid and making them together is a hands on cooking project that brings people of all ages to the kitchen

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No matter when you serve Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls they have a way of disappearing fast Every time I make them it is a reminder that the simplest ingredients can spark the best memories and most delicious moments

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, provolone, or any cheese that melts well for a different flavor.

→ Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

Parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier, but a well-greased baking sheet also works.

→ How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to tuck the dough sides securely and roll tightly so the cheese stays enclosed during baking.

→ Can I make these in advance?

You can assemble the rolls a few hours early, refrigerate covered, and bake them when ready to serve.

→ What other fillings work well?

Try adding diced bell peppers, cooked sausage, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for variety and extra flavor.