This yummy pizza bread is like a warm hug for your taste buds! With cheesy goodness and tasty toppings baked right in, it’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
I love making this when pizza cravings hit but I want something fun and easy. Dip it in marinara sauce, and you’re all set for a cozy movie night! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This flour helps create a nice, chewy texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free all-purpose blend. I’ve found that using bread flour gives it a bit more chewiness, which I enjoy.
Active Dry Yeast: This helps the dough rise beautifully. If you have instant yeast, you can use it without proofing. I prefer instant yeast because it’s easier and saves time.
Pizza Sauce: You can make your own by blending tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, or use store-bought for convenience. I often use marinara since it has a great flavor and is usually on hand in my pantry.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in provolone or cheddar for a unique taste. I like adding a little smoked gouda for a twist.
Pepperoni: If you prefer a meatless option, try using sliced bell peppers or mushrooms instead. You can also switch things up with salami or turkey pepperoni for a healthier alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Dough Rises Perfectly?
Making sure your dough rises well is key to getting that fluffy pizza bread. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use warm water (110°F/43°C)—too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold won’t activate it.
- Let the yeast mixture rest until it’s frothy; this indicates it’s alive and kicking!
- Keep your dough in a warm, draft-free place. If your kitchen is chilly, turn on the oven slightly to warm it up, then turn it off.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with a beautifully risen dough, ready to be shaped into your pizza bread!
How to Make Pizza Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20-30 slices pepperoni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pizza bread recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll need about 1 to 1 1/2 hours for the dough to rise. In total, plan for about 2 hours and 15 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious creation!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that your yeast is active and ready to go!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir until a dough forms. It should come together nicely.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic—this is what will make your bread chewy and delicious!
4. Let It Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Now, let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
5. Preheat and Prepare:
While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with olive oil so your bread doesn’t stick.
6. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Then, press it evenly into the prepared pan, pushing the edges slightly up to create a nice crust.
7. Add Sauce & Toppings:
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the dough. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by arranging the pepperoni slices evenly.
8. Season It Up:
Sprinkle dried oregano and garlic powder over the cheese for an extra flavor kick. If you like, you can also add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for even more goodness!
9. Bake:
Place your pizza bread in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want it to be golden brown, with the cheese melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pizza bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then slice it into squares, and serve warm. Don’t forget to have some extra pizza sauce or marinara on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your delicious homemade pizza bread with all the gooey cheese and crispy pepperoni you love! It’s perfect for sharing, but you might just want to keep it all to yourself!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture will be denser. You might want to add a little extra water to compensate for the moisture absorption of whole wheat.
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and always use warm (not hot) water. If possible, try to find a warm spot in your kitchen for the dough to rise, away from drafts.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave, or place slices in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I Freeze This Pizza Bread?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.