Pepperoni Roll Recipe and History: A West Virginia Classic
There’s something magical about biting into a freshly baked pepperoni roll. The soft bread, the rich, spicy pepperoni, and the melted cheese (if you’re feeling indulgent) create a perfect harmony of flavors. But this isn’t just any snack—it’s a piece of West Virginia history.
Born in the 1920s to feed hungry coal miners, the pepperoni roll has evolved into an iconic food beloved across the state and beyond. Today, I’m sharing not only the recipe to recreate these irresistible rolls at home but also the incredible story behind them.
The History of the Pepperoni Roll
The pepperoni roll was first created in 1927 by Giuseppe “Joseph” Argiro, an Italian immigrant who owned the Country Club Bakery in Fairmont, West Virginia. Argiro noticed that coal miners needed a portable, filling meal that wouldn’t spoil underground. Drawing inspiration from Italian bread stuffed with cured meats, he developed the pepperoni roll as a compact, shelf-stable solution.
Miners quickly embraced the roll—it required no refrigeration, didn’t crumble or make a mess, and provided much-needed energy during long shifts. The pepperoni roll became a lunchtime staple in coal mining communities, with its simple yet genius combination of soft bread and savory pepperoni.
By the 1950s, the pepperoni roll had gained statewide popularity, becoming a symbol of West Virginia’s hardworking heritage and Italian-American ingenuity. To this day, it remains a source of pride, a regional specialty, and a must-try treat for visitors.
How to Make Pepperoni Rolls at Home
Here’s how to bring this West Virginia classic to your kitchen.
Ingredients (Yields: 12 rolls):
- 1 (9-oz) stick of pepperoni, cut into strips
- Bread dough for one loaf OR 24 frozen dough balls (like Rhodes, thawed—2 balls per roll)
- Melted butter for brushing
- Optional: Hot pepper jack cheese, cut into strips (12 strips the same size as your pepperoni)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the pepperoni stick into 5 equal pieces. Cut each piece in half, then into four strips each (you’ll need 36 strips total for 12 rolls, with extras left over). If using cheese, cut it into strips as well.
- If using frozen dough balls, thaw them according to package directions.
- Shape the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Divide your bread dough into 12 equal pieces or use 2 thawed dough balls per roll. Roll each piece into an oval.
- Assemble the Rolls
- On one end of the dough oval, place a strip of pepperoni and fold the dough over it. Add a second strip of pepperoni (plus a cheese strip, if using) and roll the dough again, tucking the ends and pinching the seams tightly.
- Let the Dough Rise
- Place the rolls seam-side down in the prepared pan, arranging them in 3 rows of 4. Cover the pan and let the rolls rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Bake
- Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top. Brush them with melted butter immediately after removing them from the oven.
- Cool and Enjoy
- Let the rolls rest in the pan for a few minutes before inverting them onto a cookie sheet. Separate the rolls and serve warm or at room temperature.
Pro Tips:
- Stick Pepperoni vs. Sliced: Stick pepperoni releases its flavorful oils during baking, infusing the bread with that signature spicy taste. While sliced pepperoni works in a pinch, stick pepperoni is highly recommended for authenticity.
- Cheese Variations: While pepper jack adds a spicy kick, you can also use mozzarella for a milder, gooey option.
Why the Pepperoni Roll Is So Special
The pepperoni roll is more than just a snack; it’s a culinary symbol of resilience and creativity. Born out of necessity, this humble creation reflects the resourcefulness of West Virginia’s coal mining communities and the rich influence of Italian immigrants.
Today, you’ll find pepperoni rolls sold in bakeries, gas stations, and even school cafeterias across the state. Whether eaten plain, slightly warmed, or dipped in marinara sauce, the pepperoni roll continues to be a beloved comfort food for generations.
