Savory Cheese and Pepperoni Bread: A Deliciously Cheesy Snack

In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring to form a dough.
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can do this by hand or with a stand mixer using a dough hook.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Prepare the Filling:

While the dough is rising, combine the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, sliced pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
Assemble the Bread:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle (about 12×8 inches).
Evenly spread the cheese and pepperoni filling over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border along the edges.
Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal.
Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake the Bread:

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown on top and the cheese is melted and bubbly inside.
While the bread bakes, mix together the melted butter and garlic powder in a small bowl.
Finish the Bread:

Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately brush the top with the garlic butter mixture.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color.
Serve:

Slice the bread into thick, hearty pieces and serve warm. Perfect on its own or paired with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!
Serving and Storage Tips: