Savor West Virginia’s Pepperoni Roll: Homemade Comfort Goodness

The pepperoni roll is a treasured snack with deep roots in West Virginia’s culture.

Miners and workers first turned to this portable and filling treat during their long hours underground.

Born in the early 1900s, it showcases the creativity of Italian immigrants who made their way to the Appalachian area.

The working-class communities of West Virginia quickly embraced the pepperoni roll as a staple food that could endure tough conditions while offering much-needed nourishment.

Its soft white bread filled with spicy pepperoni became a source of local pride, going beyond its simple beginnings.

Today, both regional bakeries and everyday cooks keep this beloved snack alive, preserving a tasty tradition that ties generations of West Virginians to their rich history.

Storing And Reheating West Virginia Pepperoni Roll

• Refrigeration: Wrap cooled pepperoni rolls individually in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Place rolls in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 2 months to preserve their delicious flavor.
• Reheating Oven: Warm rolls at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, helping restore their crispy exterior and soft interior without drying out.
• Microwave Option: Heat individual rolls for 20-30 seconds, adding a small damp paper towel to prevent them from becoming tough and maintain moisture.

What Goes Well With West Virginia Pepperoni Roll

• Pair Perfectly with Bold Red Wine: Choose a robust Chianti or Sangiovese that cuts through the pepperoni's rich, spicy flavor and complements the rolls' hearty texture.
• Complement with Zesty Marinara Dip: Create a quick marinara sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil to add a tangy, vibrant dimension that enhances the roll's savory profile.
• Match with Crisp Craft Beer: Select an amber ale or hoppy IPA to balance the pepperoni's saltiness and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the dense, cheesy bread.
• Serve with Tangy Pickle Salad: Prepare a quick side of diced pickles, red onions, and fresh dill dressed in a light vinaigrette to add brightness and crunch alongside the hearty rolls.

Fun Ways To Switch West Virginia Pepperoni Roll

• Gluten-Free Pepperoni Rolls: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend using almond and rice flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Low-Carb Keto Pepperoni Rolls: Swap traditional dough with a cauliflower or almond flour base, reducing carbohydrate content for ketogenic dieters.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute pepperoni with plant-based pepperoni or roasted vegetable strips like zucchini and bell peppers for a meat-free option.
• Spicy Jalapeño Version: Add diced fresh jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes inside the rolls for those who enjoy extra heat and bold flavors.

West Virginia Pepperoni Roll Q&A

• What is the origin of the West Virginia Pepperoni Roll?

The pepperoni roll originated in West Virginia during the 1920s, created by Italian immigrants working in coal mines as a portable, hearty lunch that didn’t require refrigeration.

• Can I use different types of pepperoni?

Yes, you can use various styles of pepperoni including stick pepperoni or pre-sliced pepperoni. Traditional rolls often use stick pepperoni for a more authentic taste.

• Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this is a meat-based recipe featuring pepperoni. Vegetarians would need to substitute the pepperoni with a plant-based alternative or remove it entirely.

• How can I make the dough softer?

Use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour, which has higher protein content. Additionally, ensure you knead the dough thoroughly and let it rise in a warm, draft-free environment to develop better gluten structure.

Why West Virginia Pepperoni Roll Hits The Spot

• Bite-Size Convenience: Grab-and-go pepperoni rolls pack maximum flavor into a portable lunch or snack perfect for busy families and workers on the move.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: Minimal preparation time of just over an hour means you can whip up delicious rolls without spending all day in the kitchen, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
• Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy, savory rolls that offer customizable options with simple ingredients everyone enjoys, creating zero mealtime arguments.
• Versatile Serving Star: These pepperoni rolls work brilliantly as appetizers, school lunches, road trip snacks, picnic fare, or casual game day treats with minimal additional effort required.

All You Need For West Virginia Pepperoni Roll

• All-Purpose Flour: The essential base for creating a soft, tender bread foundation.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity.
• Sugar: Helps yeast activate and adds subtle sweetness.
• Active Dry Yeast: Crucial for making the dough rise and creating light texture.
• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps bind ingredients.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and rich flavor to the dough.

• Pepperoni Slices: The classic West Virginia pepperoni roll star, providing spicy and savory flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Optional, but adds creamy melted texture.
• Garlic Powder: Brings depth and aromatic seasoning.
• Italian Seasoning: Adds herbaceous flavor profile to the filling.

• Egg: Used for creating a golden, shiny crust when brushed on top.

How To Make West Virginia Pepperoni Roll At Home

Step 1: Whip Up the Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Sugar
• Active dry yeast

Pour in warm water and olive oil, mixing until a soft dough emerges. Knead vigorously for 5-7 minutes until the texture becomes smooth and springy. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, drape with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a cozy spot for one hour until it doubles in volume.

Step 2: Craft the Pepperoni Parcels

• Pepperoni slices
• Shredded cheese (optional)

Sprinkle generously with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Carefully roll the dough around the filling, sealing the edges tightly to prevent leaks.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring the sealed side faces down. Brush the tops with an egg wash to create a beautiful golden crust. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes until they transform into a gorgeous amber color.

Step 4: Serve and Savor

Allow the rolls to cool slightly, creating anticipation for the first bite. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful West Virginia classic that celebrates simple, hearty flavors.

Pro Tips For West Virginia Pepperoni Roll

• Knead with Purpose: Ensure thorough kneading to develop gluten, creating a soft and stretchy dough that wraps perfectly around pepperoni.
• Seal Edges Securely: Pinch dough edges firmly to prevent filling from leaking during baking, maintaining a neat and compact pepperoni roll.
• Temperature Matters: Use warm (not hot) water when activating yeast to help dough rise evenly without killing the yeast culture.
• Customize Your Filling: Experiment with different cheese types like provolone or mozzarella to add extra flavor and create personal variations.
• Brush for Shine: Apply egg wash generously to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust that looks professionally baked and appetizing.

Scrumptious West Virginia Pepperoni Roll Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Mountain miners’ favorite snack, West Virginia Pepperoni Roll, weaves Appalachian culinary heritage into a simple yet irresistible handheld treat. Crusty bread embracing spicy pepperoni slices delivers pure comfort that connects generations of hungry locals.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients:

• 4 cups (480 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry or instant yeast
• 1 ½ cups (360 milliliters) warm water
• ¼ cup (60 milliliters) olive oil

Filling Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) sliced pepperoni
• 1 cup (113 grams) shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Craft the foundational dough mixture by combining flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a seamless dry ingredient blend.
2. Introduce warm water and olive oil into the dry ingredients, gently stirring until a cohesive dough emerges, transforming the mixture into a workable consistency.
3. Transfer the developing dough onto a clean surface and engage in a rhythmic kneading process for 5-7 minutes, developing its elasticity and smooth texture.
4. Nestle the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, drape with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a draft-free environment for approximately one hour until it substantially expands.
5. Preheat the culinary workspace to 375°F, preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal roll placement.
6. Deflate the risen dough with a gentle punch, then partition it into eight uniform segments for consistent roll sizing.
7. Methodically transform each dough segment into a rectangular shape, creating a canvas for pepperoni and optional cheese placement.
8. Strategically layer pepperoni slices across the dough’s center, complementing with cheese and sprinkling garlic powder and Italian seasoning for enhanced flavor complexity.
9. Carefully roll the dough around the filling, meticulously sealing the edges to prevent ingredient escape during baking.
10. Position the assembled rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring adequate spacing between each roll.
11. Delicately brush the exterior with egg wash, promoting a lustrous golden-brown finish during baking.
12. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the rolls to bake for 18-22 minutes until they achieve a rich, appetizing coloration.
13. Remove from the oven and permit the pepperoni rolls to cool momentarily, allowing internal temperatures to stabilize before serving.
14. Present the rolls warm or at ambient temperature, ready to delight eager palates with their savory West Virginia charm.

Notes

• Choose high-protein bread flour for extra chewiness and structure in your pepperoni rolls.
• Proofing dough in a warm, draft-free spot ensures consistent rising and soft texture.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like provolone or sharp cheddar to customize flavor profile.
• Cold pepperoni straight from refrigerator helps prevent grease bleeding through dough during baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg