Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls

Flaky mozzarella pepperoni croissant rolls have saved me countless times on busy afternoons when I want something satisfying without a lot of fuss. With buttery layers, melted cheese, and just enough pepperoni zing, they are always a hit at the lunch table or as a party snack.

The first time I whipped these up was for a movie night and they disappeared before the previews finished. Now I always keep croissant dough on hand for a quick batch.

Ingredients

• Croissant dough: ready-to-bake this forms the flaky base use a quality brand for best texture
• Mozzarella cheese: shredded for even melty layers choose whole milk mozzarella for creaminess
• Pepperoni slices: cut in half for perfect fit go for a mildly spicy variety or turkey pepperoni for a lighter version
• Butter: melted for brushing on top and inside adds rich flavor
• Garlic powder: infuses the butter with aroma use fresh garlic if you prefer a stronger taste
• Dried oregano: for that classic Italian flavor pick a vibrant green oregano for freshness
• Dried basil: extra herbal notes for balance look for basil with a fragrant sweet scent

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking

Prepare the Croissant Dough:

Unroll the croissant dough and separate it into individual triangles along the perforated lines to create the perfect shape for rolling

Ready the Cheese:

Put the shredded mozzarella cheese into a small bowl so it is easy to scoop while assembling

Slice the Pepperoni:

Cut the pepperoni slices in half so they fit within the dough triangles and every bite has even pepperoni coverage

Mix the Butter and Herbs:

Melt the butter thoroughly either in the microwave or on the stove and stir in garlic powder dried oregano and dried basil until fully blended

Brush the Dough with Butter:

Generously brush the herb infused butter mixture on the surface of each croissant triangle to ensure lots of flavor in every bite

Add the Pepperoni:

Lay a few pieces of the cut pepperoni slices at the widest end of each triangle as this will keep all the filling melted together as you roll

Add the Mozzarella:

Spoon a heaping tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese right over the pepperoni for gooey results

Roll Up the Croissants:

Starting at the wide end gently roll each triangle up towards the tip trapping the cheese and pepperoni inside and pinch the tips to seal

Arrange on the Baking Sheet:

Place each rolled croissant on your prepared baking sheet with enough space between so they bake up golden and not soggy

Brush with More Butter:

Take any leftover butter mixture and brush it across the tops of each roll for extra color and flavor

Bake Until Golden:

Pop the sheet into the oven and bake for twelve to fifteen minutes until the croissants are puffed golden brown and the cheese is visibly melted

Cool Before Serving:

Let the croissants rest for a few minutes after baking so the cheese sets slightly and they are easy to pick up

Time to Enjoy:

Serve the mozzarella pepperoni croissant rolls while still warm for maximum stretchy cheese satisfaction

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I always look forward to using the fresh dried oregano from my garden in these rolls it adds a beautiful fragrance and transports me right back to growing up with pizza nights at home Sharing these with friends always brings back those cozy memories

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat place them in a low oven or air fryer for a few minutes to restore their flaky texture rather than using the microwave which can make them soggy. If you want to make them ahead you can assemble and refrigerate the unbaked croissant rolls overnight and bake them fresh when needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap the mozzarella for another mild melting cheese like provolone or Monterey jack. For a different flavor profile you can use cooked crumbled sausage or chopped ham in place of pepperoni. If you do not have croissant dough on hand pizza dough or biscuit dough can be used but the texture will be less flaky.

Serving Suggestions

Mozzarella pepperoni croissant rolls are delicious on their own but even better dipped into warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing. I like to slice them into bite sized pieces for party trays. Try serving them with a green salad or fresh tomato soup for an easy meal.

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Cultural Context

This recipe brings together the buttery French croissant and the classic Italian flavors of pepperoni and cheese similar to the iconic pizza roll but with a more indulgent pastry twist. The dish is perfect for new cooks as it offers all the comfort of pizza in a simple grab and go snack.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other types of cheese in these croissant rolls?

Absolutely! While mozzarella produces a gooey melt, provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack can be great alternatives for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Carefully tuck in the ends of the croissant dough while rolling to ensure the cheese and pepperoni stay sealed inside during baking.

→ Are these croissant rolls best served hot or at room temperature?

They're at their cheesiest and flakiest when served warm from the oven, but still delicious at room temperature.

→ Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

You can assemble the croissant rolls in advance and store them, covered, in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these croissant rolls?

Marinara sauce, garlic butter, or ranch dressing all make excellent accompaniments for these savory rolls.