Description
Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread
This fun and cheesy pull-apart bread is filled with gooey cheese and pepperoni, making it a perfect snack or appetizer for any gathering. It’s easy to make and so irresistible!
Ingredients:
1 package (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
2 tablespoons butter (melted)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a bundt pan or round cake pan.
Assemble the Pull-Apart Bread: Open the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Toss the dough pieces in a bowl, layering them with shredded mozzarella, sliced pepperoni, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Repeat the layering until all of the dough is used.
Arrange in the Pan: Place the layered dough pieces into the prepared bundt pan, stacking them in a random, loose manner to create a pull-apart structure.
Brush and Season: Pour the melted butter over the top of the dough. Sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese over the top to enhance the flavor.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden and cooked through. The cheese should be bubbling and slightly browned.
Serve: Let the bread cool for a few minutes before pulling it apart. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
This Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread is the perfect combination of cheesy, crispy, and savory with each bite. It’s great for parties, movie nights, or a fun family meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a bundt pan with non-stick spray or butter. Open the biscuit dough and use kitchen shears to quickly cut each biscuit into four equal quarters. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dough pieces, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and Italian seasoning. Gently toss until everything is evenly distributed, ensuring each dough piece gets coated with seasoning and cheese.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan, piling it in loosely. Do not pack it down tightly, as the dough needs space to expand. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Using a pastry brush, carefully and evenly drizzle and brush this seasoned butter all over the top layer of the dough pile. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a crispy, flavorful crust.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is best served warm, straight from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for just 5-7 minutes before inverting it onto a serving platter for a beautiful presentation. Offer small bowls of warm marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy garlic aioli for dipping. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh green salad or a bowl of tomato soup. It also makes an excellent game-day snack alongside wings and veggie sticks.
How-to Summary
Cut biscuit dough into pieces and toss with cheese, pepperoni, and seasoning. Loosely pile the mixture into a greased bundt pan. Brush with seasoned melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cool briefly, then pull apart and serve warm with dipping sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the bread in the pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. Add 3-5 extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use different meats or cheeses? Absolutely. Cooked Italian sausage, diced ham, or bacon work well. For cheese, try a blend of provolone and asiago or add cream cheese pieces for extra richness.
My bread is doughy in the middle. What happened? This usually means the oven temperature was too high, causing the top to brown before the center cooked. Ensure your oven is properly preheated and bake at the recommended 375°F. You can also tent the top with foil if it’s browning too quickly.
Can I freeze the baked pull-apart bread? Yes. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat, wrapped in foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
What if I don’t have a bundt pan? A 9×13 inch baking dish or a deep, round cake pan works perfectly. The baking time may be slightly less, so check for doneness at the 20-minute mark.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid packing the dough pieces too tightly into the pan, as this prevents heat circulation and leads to a gummy center. Do not skip the step of tossing the dough with the seasonings in the bowl—sprinkling seasoning only on top results in uneven flavor. Ensure your butter is fully melted for easy, even brushing. Finally, resist the urge to pull the bread apart immediately after baking; letting it rest for a few minutes allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing a messy collapse.
Conclusion
This Pepperoni Pull-Apart Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that masterfully combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Its interactive, shareable nature makes it ideal for everything from casual family dinners to large parties. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a perfectly cheesy, golden, and delicious centerpiece for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!