Pin it
This hearty Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible snack that combines the flaky goodness of croissants with the beloved flavors of pizza. The golden, buttery layers wrap around gooey mozzarella and savory pepperoni for a bite that's both comforting and exciting.
I first created these rolls when my niece and nephew came for an impromptu sleepover. With limited ingredients and hungry kids, these croissant rolls saved the day. Now they request "pizza croissants" every time they visit, and honestly, I'm always happy to oblige.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated croissant dough: Provides the perfect flaky base without any fuss. Look for butter-based varieties for the richest flavor
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates those irresistible stretchy cheese pulls. Freshly shredded works best as it melts more evenly
- Pepperoni slices: Add that classic pizza flavor. Choose thinly sliced varieties that will crisp up beautifully
- Melted butter: Brushed on top ensures a golden finish. Use unsalted to control the overall saltiness
- Garlic powder: Infuses each bite with aromatic flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
- Dried oregano: Brings authentic Italian pizza flavor. Crush it slightly between your fingers before sprinkling
- Dried basil: Complements the oregano with its sweet herbal notes. Use Mediterranean dried basil for the most potent flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F. This temperature perfectly balances the need to cook the dough through while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt without burning. Position your rack in the middle of the oven for even heat distribution. Allow at least 10 minutes for your oven to fully preheat.
- Prepare the Croissant Dough:
- Unroll the croissant dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Separate the perforated triangles carefully, making sure not to stretch the dough too much at this stage. If the dough feels too sticky, pop it in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
- Add the Fillings:
- Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella over each triangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Place 2 to 3 pepperoni slices on top of the cheese, slightly overlapping them. The cheese acts as a barrier that helps prevent the pepperoni oils from making the dough soggy.
- Roll Them Up:
- Starting from the wider end of each triangle, gently roll the dough toward the pointed tip. Press the tip slightly to seal it to the roll, preventing cheese from leaking out during baking. Place each roll on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure the tip is tucked underneath to prevent unraveling.
- Apply the Butter and Seasonings:
- Brush each roll generously with melted butter, making sure to cover the entire surface. This creates that beautiful golden color and adds richness. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil, distributing evenly across all rolls for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch closely after the 10-minute mark. The rolls are done when they've puffed up significantly, turned a deep golden brown, and the cheese is bubbling around the edges. Let them cool for 2 minutes before serving to allow the melted cheese to set slightly.
Pin it
The pepperoni is truly the star ingredient here. I discovered that layering it between the cheese and the outside of the roll creates the perfect balance. My grandmother used to make a similar treat with salami instead of pepperoni, which sparked my love for these savory pastries. The smell of these baking takes me right back to her kitchen every time.
Customize Your Croissant Rolls
Feel free to make these rolls your own by swapping in different fillings. Ham and Swiss create a delicious croissant take on a Cuban sandwich. Vegetarian options work beautifully too with spinach and feta for a Greek-inspired version. The trick is not to overfill them or the dough might split during baking. Whatever combination you choose, keep the cheese as your base layer to help prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
Pin it
Storage Tips
These croissant rolls maintain their quality remarkably well when stored properly. For short-term storage, let them cool completely then place in an airtight container with paper towels between layers to absorb any excess moisture. They will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days without losing much of their texture.
For longer storage, these rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap each cooled roll individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, unwrap and place directly on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and crispy again. The individual wrapping prevents freezer burn and allows you to take out just what you need.
The refrigerator is actually the least ideal storage method as the cold temperature accelerates the staling process of the pastry. If you must refrigerate them, wrap tightly and consume within 24 hours, reheating gently in the oven rather than the microwave to restore crispness.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls work wonderfully as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a casual dinner. Pair them with a simple marinara dipping sauce for that classic pizza experience. The slight acidity of the tomato sauce cuts through the richness of the buttery croissant and cheese.
For a complete meal, serve alongside a bright, fresh salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette. The contrast between the warm, rich rolls and the cool, crisp vegetables creates a perfectly balanced plate. They also make an excellent addition to a soup night when you want something more substantial than plain bread.
If serving at a party, consider making mini versions using crescent roll bites instead of the full triangles. These one-bite wonders disappear quickly at gatherings and require no plates or utensils.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of croissant dough works best?
Pre-made croissant dough is ideal for this recipe, as it’s easy to use and delivers a buttery, flaky texture. Look for one with perforated triangles for easy assembly.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella creates a gooey stretch, other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack can also be used for different flavor profiles.
- → How do I keep the rolls from unravelling during baking?
Roll the dough tightly, but not overly so, and ensure the seam is tucked underneath on the baking sheet to help maintain their shape.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, store them covered in the fridge, and bake them fresh when ready. This works well for prepping ahead of parties.
- → How do I reheat leftover croissant rolls?
Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their flakiness and ensure the filling is warmed through.
- → Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, freeze fully baked and cooled rolls by wrapping them individually in plastic. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.