Pepperoni Pizza Braid

If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this Pepperoni Pizza Braid. This savory recipe combines the best parts of pizza—cheese, pepperoni, and pizza sauce—into a beautiful braided bread that’s perfect for dinner, lunch, or even a party appetizer!

Ingredients:

• 1 package (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 cup pepperoni slices
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce (for dipping)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Unroll the pizza dough on a flat surface. Use a rolling pin to stretch the dough into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches.
3. Assemble the Filling: On the center of the dough, evenly layer the pepperoni slices and shredded mozzarella cheese. Leave about an inch of dough around the edges for folding.
4. Braid the Dough: Cut strips along the sides of the dough, about 1 inch wide, creating a braided effect. Carefully fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides, to create a braid. Pinch the ends to seal.
5. Prepare for Baking: In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the braided dough. Sprinkle with oregano and garlic powder for added flavor.
6. Bake the Braid: Place the pizza braid on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove the braid from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Serve with pizza sauce for dipping!

Why You’ll Love This Pepperoni Pizza Braid

This Pepperoni Pizza Braid is not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. It’s a perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors wrapped in golden, pillowy dough. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or as a fun party snack, it’s sure to impress everyone!

Pro Tips:

• If you prefer a spicier version, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the filling.
• For a variation, you can substitute the pepperoni with other pizza toppings like sausage, mushrooms, or olives.
• Don’t forget to brush the top of the braid with olive oil for a beautiful golden finish!

Conclusion

This Pepperoni Pizza Braid is a creative twist on traditional pizza that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors of pizza in a fun, new way!