This cheesy pepperoni sourdough pizza bread is a real treat! Imagine warm, crusty bread stuffed with gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni. It’s pizza in a loaf!
Making this bread is fun and surprisingly easy. I love slicing into it fresh out of the oven and enjoying the cheesy goodness. Pair it with your favorite dip for extra yum! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread Flour: This flour gives your bread its unique texture and flavor. If you don’t have it, all-purpose flour works too! You might miss the tangy flavor a bit, but it will still be delicious.
Active Sourdough Starter: Make sure your starter is bubbly and fed before using it. If you don’t have one, you can use a store-bought yeast to keep it simple!
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for its meltiness, while Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. You could swap these with cheddar or provolone if you’d like a different taste.
Pepperoni: Sliced pepperoni gives a classic pizza flavor. For a healthier option, try turkey pepperoni or mix in some veggies like bell peppers or olives!
How Do I Get the Perfect Rise and Texture?
Getting your dough to rise well is key! Here are some tips:
- Let the dough rest for the right time during the autolyse stage to help develop gluten.
- Stretch and knead the dough well. It should be stretchy and easy to handle.
- Allow it to rise until it’s doubled in size; patience here is essential for the best flavor!
- Cook in a preheated Dutch oven; this traps steam for a crispy crust.
Trust the process, and you’ll have a bread that’s beautifully risen and golden brown!
How to Make Cheesy Pepperoni Sourdough Pizza Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 ½ cups sourdough bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 80-85°F)
- 1 cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup pizza sauce (for brushing or dipping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing)
- Fresh oregano or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 to 7 hours in total, including preparation and rising times. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes actively working, plus 4-6 hours letting the dough rise. Then there’s bake time (approximately 35-40 minutes) and a little cooling time to let your bread rest before slicing. The wait will be worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough bread flour, warm water, and active sourdough starter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour. This resting time is called autolyse and helps to develop the dough’s gluten.
2. Kneading the Dough:
Once the resting time is up, sprinkle the salt over the dough. Knead the dough by hand or use a stand mixer for about 8-10 minutes. It should become smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. This is essential for getting that nice texture in your bread!
3. Adding the Goodies:
Now it’s time to fold in the delicious bits! Gently mix in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and sliced pepperoni evenly throughout the dough. The more cheese and pepperoni, the better!
4. First Rise:
Cover the bowl and let the dough rise at room temperature for about 4 to 6 hours, or until it’s doubled in size. If you prefer a stronger flavor, pop it in the fridge overnight for a slower fermentation.
5. Preheating the Oven:
While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven or a heavy oven-safe pot inside to heat up as well. This helps create a lovely crust.
6. Shaping the Dough:
After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round or oblong loaf. Try to keep some of that delicious cheese and pepperoni near the surface. Let it rest again for 30-45 minutes.
7. Baking Time:
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven and place your shaped dough inside (you can use parchment paper for easier lifting). If you want, brush the top with a bit of olive oil, and sprinkle on some extra mozzarella and pepperoni. Cover with the lid and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Finishing the Bake:
After the first 20 minutes, remove the lid and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cooling:
Once baked, take the bread out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This step allows the inside to set properly.
10. Serving:
Serve your warm cheesy pepperoni sourdough pizza bread with some pizza sauce for dipping. You can also sprinkle fresh oregano or basil on top for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Happy baking! 🍞
Can I Use Store-bought Sourdough Bread Instead of Making My Own?
While store-bought sourdough bread can save time, this recipe is specifically designed for making a handcrafted loaf. If you prefer not to use active sourdough starter, you can substitute with instant yeast; just adjust your rising times accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza Bread?
To keep your cheesy pepperoni sourdough pizza bread fresh, store it in an airtight container or wrap it in aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just toast or warm slices when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Can I Add Other Toppings or Ingredients?
Absolutely! You can customize this bread by adding vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms. Just be cautious not to overload it, as too many toppings can affect the bread’s structure and baking time.
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise as expected, it may be due to an inactive starter or too cold of an environment. Make sure your starter is bubbly and active before using it. If it’s too cold, try placing the dough in a warmer spot or preheating the oven to a low temperature and then turning it off to create a warm environment for rising.