Delicious Homemade Pizza Roll Ups: The Ultimate Snack, Appetizer, or Quick Meal

Get ready to delight your taste buds with our incredible Homemade Pizza Roll Ups recipe! These bite-sized bundles of joy transform everyone’s favorite pizza flavors into a fun, easy-to-eat format that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re searching for an exciting after-school snack, a crowd-pleasing game day appetizer, or a simple, satisfying weeknight meal, these pizza roll ups are your new go-to.

There’s an undeniable charm to mini, rolled pizza treats. They offer all the deliciousness of a full pizza without the fuss, making them ideal for grab-and-go enjoyment. Imagine pulling a batch from the freezer, baking them to golden perfection, and sinking your teeth into warm, cheesy goodness whenever a pizza craving strikes. This recipe makes that dream a reality, providing a delightful and convenient option for busy families and entertainers alike.

Why You’ll Love These Easy Pizza Roll Ups

This homemade pizza roll up recipe is another fantastic reason to embrace and serve pizza in a creative way. Forget complicated preparations; these delightful little spirals are designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here’s why these easy pizza rolls will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Perfectly Portable: Their compact size makes them ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or simply enjoying on the couch.
• Kid-Friendly Favorite: Children adore helping to make and, of course, eat these fun pizza bites. They’re a fantastic way to get picky eaters excited about mealtime.
• Highly Customizable: From classic pepperoni to veggie-loaded or gourmet cheese blends, the topping possibilities are endless.
• Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a big batch and freeze them unbaked for quick meals or snacks anytime.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Great for parties, game nights, movie nights, or just a simple family dinner.

For a special touch, especially around holidays like Valentine’s Day, you can even shape the pizza rolls into charming tiny hearts. This guide provides instructions for making our incredibly easy homemade pizza dough, but for those times when you need a shortcut, we also include options for using store-bought pizza dough, refrigerated dough, or even crescent rolls.

Essential Ingredients for Your Pizza Roll Ups

Crafting the perfect homemade pizza rolls begins with quality ingredients, especially when making your own dough. While our recipe features a fantastic homemade pizza dough, we also offer convenient alternatives for those busy days.

For the Homemade Pizza Dough:

Making your own pizza dough from scratch is incredibly rewarding and simpler than you might think. Here’s what you’ll need to create a tender, flavorful base for your pepperoni pizza rolls:

• Warm Water: The ideal temperature is between 95-110°F (35-43°C). Warm water is crucial as it “wakes up” the active dry yeast, allowing it to bloom and create the airy texture characteristic of great pizza dough. Too hot, and it can kill the yeast; too cold, and the yeast won’t activate.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in this recipe, acting as food for the yeast, helping it to activate and grow. It also contributes to the dough’s browning and adds a subtle sweetness. Honey can be substituted for an alternative flavor profile.
• Active Dry Yeast: This recipe specifically calls for active dry yeast, which requires proofing. Proofing involves activating the yeast in warm water and sugar until it becomes frothy, indicating it’s alive and ready to work. If you opt for instant yeast (sometimes called rapid-rise or bread machine yeast), you can usually skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients, saving a bit of time.
• Salt: A non-negotiable ingredient for any bread or dough! Salt is essential for flavor enhancement, preventing the dough from tasting bland. It also plays a vital role in controlling yeast activity and strengthening the gluten structure, resulting in a more manageable and flavorful dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: Our go-to for a consistently good pizza dough. All-purpose flour strikes a balance between gluten content and workability. You can also use bread flour, which has a higher protein content, for a chewier crust.
• Olive Oil: Essential for adding richness and elasticity to the dough, making it smoother and easier to handle. Olive oil also contributes to a tender interior and a lovely golden crust. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil or another neutral cooking oil if preferred.

For the Irresistible Toppings:

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to load up on flavor! These are the classic choices for our pepperoni pizza rolls, but don’t hesitate to get creative.

• Pizza Sauce or Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce forms the base of your flavor. Choose a classic marinara for a simple, tangy taste, or a spiced pizza sauce for more zest.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of any pizza! Mozzarella melts beautifully, offering that satisfying gooey, stretchy texture we all love. Freshly shredded cheese often melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which can contain anti-caking agents.
• Grated or Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty, and savory depth of flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
• Pepperoni: The quintessential pizza topping. Pepperoni slices crisp up wonderfully in the oven, releasing their spicy, savory oils, making these pepperoni pizza roll ups utterly addictive.

Dough Shortcuts for Convenience:

Pressed for time? No problem! You have several excellent options for the dough:

• Store-Bought Pizza Dough: Many grocery stores offer fresh pizza dough in their refrigerated section, ready to be rolled out. This is a fantastic time-saver.
• Refrigerated Crescent Roll Dough: Unroll and gently press the seams together to form a rectangle, then proceed with the recipe. Keep in mind crescent dough will yield a flakier, buttery crust compared to traditional pizza dough.
• Refrigerated Pizza Dough in a Can: Similar to crescent rolls, this is a pre-made, easy-to-use option found in the refrigerated aisle.
• Puff Pastry: For an extra flaky and rich pizza roll, puff pastry sheets can be used. Thaw according to package directions and roll out slightly before topping.

How to Make This Delicious Recipe for Pizza Roll Ups

Follow these simple steps to create amazing homemade pizza rolls that everyone will rave about. This detailed guide ensures a perfect batch every time!

Part 1: Preparing the Pizza Dough

1. Proof the Yeast: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the warm water (between 95-110°F), granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Mix gently to combine. Let this mixture sit undisturbed for about 5-10 minutes. You’ll know your yeast is active when the mixture becomes visibly frothy and bubbly on the surface, indicating the yeast is alive and ready to create a light, airy dough.
2. Mix the Pizza Dough: Once the yeast is proofed, add the olive oil, salt, and approximately 1½ cups of the all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Using a paddle attachment (or dough hook, if you prefer to start kneading mechanically), mix on low speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and a rough dough forms.
3. Gradually Add Remaining Flour: Continue adding the remaining flour, about ¼ cup at a time, mixing after each addition. The dough will become stiffer and start to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Stop adding flour when the dough is no longer excessively sticky but is still soft and pliable. You might not need all 2½ cups of flour, or you might need a tiny bit more, depending on humidity.
4. Knead the Dough: Switch to the dough hook if you haven’t already. Knead on low speed for another 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and springs back when gently poked. If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a cohesive ball.
5. Allow the Dough to Rise:
   • Immediate Use: Lightly oil a clean mixing bowl, place the dough ball inside, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm, draft-free place for about 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size. This initial rise develops flavor and texture.
   • Make Ahead (Overnight Rise): For enhanced flavor and convenience, wrap the dough ball tightly in plastic wrap (or place in an airtight container) and store it in the refrigerator overnight, or for up to 24 hours. The cold fermentation will slow the rise and deepen the flavor.

Part 2: Assembling and Baking Your Pizza Roll Ups

6. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a large baking dish or baking sheets with parchment paper or a nonstick cooking spray.
7. Roll Dough and Add Toppings: Turn the risen (or thawed if frozen) dough out onto a lightly floured surface. With lightly floured hands or a rolling pin, stretch and shape the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches and about ½-inch thick. Spread your favorite pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Generously sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then layer with pepperoni or your desired toppings. Ensure toppings are evenly distributed but avoid overfilling, which can make rolling difficult.
8. Slice and Shape: Carefully roll the dough from one long side into a tight log. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the log into 1-inch thick slices.
   • Standard Rolls: Place the slices, cut-side up, onto your prepared baking dish or sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll to allow for expansion during baking.
   • Heart-Shaped Pizza Roll Ups: For a festive touch, gently unroll each slice slightly from one side. Then, roll each end towards the center, meeting in the middle to form a heart shape. Pinch the bottom tip to seal. Arrange on the baking sheet as directed above.
9. Second Rise (Optional but Recommended): Once shaped and placed on the baking sheet, let the pizza roll ups rise for another 15 minutes. This brief second rise helps them become extra light and fluffy.
10. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your rolls. Look for golden brown edges and bubbly, melted cheese as indicators of doneness.
11. Serve Warm: Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Let the pizza roll ups cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them warm with extra marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic butter dipping sauce for an ultimate flavor experience. Enjoy these delicious homemade pizza rolls!

Tips for Making the Best Pizza Roll Ups

• Don’t Overfill: While tempting to load up on toppings, too much filling can make rolling difficult and cause cheese to ooze out excessively during baking. Stick to a thin layer of sauce and a moderate amount of cheese and toppings.
• Proper Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable. If it’s too dry and stiff, a tiny bit of water can help, but avoid making it too wet.
• Even Thickness: Roll your dough to a consistent ½-inch thickness. This ensures even baking and a good dough-to-filling ratio in every bite.
• Sharp Knife for Slicing: Use a sharp knife or even unflavored dental floss to cut the log into clean, even slices. This prevents squishing the rolls.
• Allow for Rising: Don’t skip the rising times. They contribute significantly to the texture and lightness of your pizza rolls.
• Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Think beyond pepperoni! Cooked sausage, ham, finely diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or black olives all make excellent additions. Just ensure any vegetable toppings are finely diced and any meat toppings are pre-cooked.
• Serve with a Dip: While delicious on their own, pizza roll ups are even better with a side of warm marinara, garlic butter, or even a creamy ranch dressing for dipping.

Variations & Customization Ideas

The beauty of pizza roll ups lies in their versatility. Here are some ideas to customize your next batch:

• Meat Lover’s Delight: Add cooked crumbled sausage, crispy bacon bits, or diced ham along with pepperoni.
• Veggie Power: For a vegetarian option, load up on finely chopped bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, black olives, or spinach (ensure spinach is squeezed dry).
• Three-Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses! Besides mozzarella and Parmesan, try provolone, Monterey Jack, or a sharp cheddar for added flavor complexity.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the sauce before adding other toppings, or include sliced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
• Pesto Rolls: Swap the red pizza sauce for a vibrant basil pesto for a gourmet take.
• Breakfast Rolls: Fill with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and cheddar cheese for a savory breakfast treat.

Make Ahead, Storing, and Reheating Instructions

These freezer-friendly pizza rolls are excellent for meal prep, ensuring you always have a delicious snack or meal on hand.

• Refrigerator Storage: Leftover baked Pizza Roll Ups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Unbaked Dough: If you’re making the dough ahead and don’t plan to use it immediately, you can freeze it. After the first rise, punch down the dough, shape it into a ball, and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 1 month. The day before you plan to use it, transfer the frozen dough to the fridge to thaw slowly. Bring to room temperature before rolling.
• Freezing Assembled (Unbaked) Pizza Roll Ups: This is a fantastic make-ahead option! After slicing and shaping the raw pizza rolls, arrange them on a baking sheet and flash freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or bag. They will keep for up to 1-2 months. When ready to bake, place frozen rolls on a prepared baking sheet, allow them to thaw for about 30 minutes at room temperature while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
• Freezing Baked Pizza Roll Ups: Once baked and cooled completely, you can freeze the cooked rolls. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They are best consumed within 1 month.
• To Reheat:
  • Oven: For the best results and to regain some crispiness, reheat leftover Pizza Roll Ups in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and slightly crispy.
  • Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave individual rolls for 20-30 seconds, or until warm. Be aware that the crust might be softer in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Roll Ups

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying these delightful homemade pizza rolls:

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You have several options for preparing them in advance. You can mix the pizza dough the day before and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight, or even freeze the dough for up to 1 month. Alternatively, you can fully assemble, cut, and shape your Pizza Roll Ups, then gently wrap the baking sheet with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge overnight. The next day, simply pull them out of the fridge while your oven preheats and bake as directed. This makes for a super convenient meal or snack when time is tight.

How long do Pizza Roll Ups take to bake?

When baked in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven, your Pizza Roll Ups should typically take between 15-20 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden brown color and ensure the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly. The exact cooking time can vary slightly based on how thinly you rolled the dough, the width of your individual pizza rolls, and the specific characteristics of your oven. Always look for those visual cues of golden edges and melted cheese for perfect doneness.

Can I use crescent dough instead of pizza dough?

Yes, absolutely! Refrigerated crescent rolls are a fantastic shortcut. Simply unroll the crescent dough, gently press the perforations together to form a solid rectangle, and then proceed with adding your toppings and slicing. This will yield a flakier, buttery crust. You can also readily find refrigerated pizza dough in a can or purchase pre-made pizza dough balls from your local grocery store for an equally convenient alternative.

Homemade Pizza Roll Ups Recipe

Here’s the full recipe for these fantastic homemade pizza rolls:

Homemade Pizza Roll Ups Recipe

These pizza roll ups with cheese and pepperoni are a fun and delicious way to serve everyone’s favorite food. Made with homemade pizza dough and your favorite pizza toppings, they’re the perfect after school snack, game day appetizer, or even a light meal.

Author: The Carefree Kitchen

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Rising Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Yields: 8 people

Ingredients

Pizza Dough

• 1 cup water, warm (95-110 degrees F)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, or any cooking oil

Toppings

• ⅔ cup pizza sauce, or marinara sauce
• 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shredded
• 8 ounces pepperoni

Instructions

To Make the Pizza Dough

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast and mix well. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
2. Once your yeast has “proofed,” add the olive oil, salt, and about 1½ cups of flour. Using a paddle or dough hook, mix until all the ingredients are completely combined.
3. Add in the rest of the flour, about a ¼ cup at a time until the dough pulls away from the edges of the bowl.
4. Mix on low speed for another 1-2 minutes until the dough is nice and smooth, then transfer to a lightly floured surface and shape the dough into a ball.
5. If you are making the dough ahead, wrap it tightly and store in the fridge overnight. Otherwise, cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

How to Make Pizza Roll Ups

6. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a baking dish or baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.
7. With lightly floured hands, stretch and shape your dough into a large rectangle that is about ½” thick.
8. Add your favorite sauce, toppings, and cheeses. Roll into a long roll and then cut into 1″ thick slices. Place onto your prepared baking dish or sheets about 1″ apart. (Note: to create heart shaped Pizza Roll Ups, you’ll need to unroll each slightly and form into a heart) Let the Pizza Roll Ups rise for about 15 minutes.
9. Bake in a preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
10. Remove from the oven and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 408kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 1071mg | Potassium: 231mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 279IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 196mg | Iron: 3mg

Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American, Italian

More Easy Homemade Pizza Recipes You’ll Love

• Heart Shaped Pizza
• Homemade Stuffed Crust Pizza
• Taco Pizza
• Combination Pizza Recipe
• Deep Dish Pizza
• Hawaiian Pizza
• Grilled Pizza Dough
• How to Make French Bread Pizza
• Three Cheese Pesto Flatbread
• Pesto and Sausage Homemade Flatbread
• More Pizza Recipes
• More Valentine’s Day Ideas

These Pepperoni Roll Ups are an incredibly fun and delicious twist on the classic pizza, offering a convenient, bite-sized format that’s hard to resist. They are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a satisfying after-school snack, or even a light, playful dinner for the whole family. Give them a try and watch them disappear!