Mozzarella Pepperoni Croissant Rolls

Mozzarella pepperoni croissant rolls are the ultimate blend of buttery pastry and classic pizza flavors in a fun appetizer or quick snack. Their golden crust and cheesy center make them a hit at game night or as an after-school treat.

I discovered these on a weekend when I needed a last-minute party snack. They disappeared faster than anything else on the table and soon became a go-to request from my friends.

Ingredients

• Croissant dough: from one package delivers that flaky bakery-style base. Choose a brand that feels soft and cold in the package for the best results
• Mozzarella cheese: about six ounces shredded for meltiness and that perfect pull. Use low moisture for less sogginess
• Pepperoni slices: three ounces for the classic pizza taste. Go for a deli brand with plenty of spice for more flavor
• Butter: about two tablespoons melted for richness and browning. Opt for unsalted and fresh
• Garlic powder: a quarter teaspoon for that subtle savory hit. Look for finely ground and fragrant
• Dried oregano: a quarter teaspoon brightens with herbal notes. Pick leaves that have a deep green color
• Dried basil: a quarter teaspoon for a sweet herbal touch. Make sure your herbs are aromatic and not faded

Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Sheet:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps keep the rolls from sticking and creates an easy cleanup

Shape the Dough:

Unroll the croissant dough and gently separate it into triangles along the perforation. Be careful not to tear the dough as you work

Get Your Fillings Ready:

Place the shredded mozzarella in a small bowl for easy access. Slice the pepperoni into halves so they fit easily on the dough triangles

Make the Seasoned Butter:

Melt the butter using a microwave or stovetop. Stir in garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix until combined with an herby aroma

Brush the Dough:

Coat each dough triangle with the butter mixture. Use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the surface

Add Fillings:

Arrange a few pepperoni pieces at the wide end of each triangle. Then add a heaping spoonful of mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni

Roll the Croissants:

Starting from the wide end, roll the triangles tightly toward the point. Tuck in any cheese or pepperoni that may slip out to keep them well filled

Arrange on Baking Sheet:

Set the rolled croissants on the baking sheet with space in between. This prevents sticking as they bake and helps them brown all over

Finish With Butter:

Brush the tops of the rolls with the rest of the butter mixture. This gives them a glossy golden finish

Bake:

Bake in a preheated oven at three seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for twelve to fifteen minutes. The rolls should be puffed up and golden brown and the cheese melted and bubbly

Cool and Serve:

Let the rolls cool for a few minutes on the sheet before handling. Serve warm for the best cheese pull and flavor

Mozzarella is my favorite ingredient here because it melts down into creamy perfection. Every time I pull apart a roll and see strings of oozy cheese I think of my cousin’s birthday party where these were all anyone talked about.

Storage Tips

Croissant rolls stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Warm them in the oven at a low temperature to crisp them up again. You can freeze baked rolls for up to one month. Wrap tightly to prevent dryness and thaw at room temperature before rewarming. Storing unbaked filled rolls in the fridge overnight makes party prep a breeze. Bake them off just before serving for the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Turkey pepperoni works well for a lighter version. Monterey jack cheese can substitute for mozzarella for a richer taste. Try using crescent roll dough if croissant dough is unavailable.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm marinara or ranch for dipping. Add a plate of green salad or sliced veggies for a balanced bite. These are great for brunch spreads or as an after-school snack that pleases all ages.

Cultural or Historical Context

Croissant rolls fuse the European pastry tradition with American pizza toppings. They fit perfectly within the world of quick party foods and easy entertaining. The popularity of stuffed pastries has spanned centuries from Italian calzones to French croissants. This version blends comfort food with global inspiration.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add sliced fresh basil in summer for brightness. Mix in sautéed mushrooms or peppers for a hearty fall twist. Try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during winter for extra warmth.

The buttery aroma from these rolls feels like a signal that everyone should gather in the kitchen. When I made them for holiday parties last year they were always the appetizer that disappeared first.

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Be sure to roll the dough tightly and pinch the ends closed to help seal in the cheese and pepperoni.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, provolone, or a blend work well if you want a different flavor profile.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these rolls?

Try serving them with warm marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for added flavor.

→ Can these croissant rolls be made ahead of time?

You can assemble the rolls ahead and refrigerate them, then bake just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore crispness without drying out the filling.