Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake: The Ultimate Party Dish
Searching for a show-stopping party centerpiece that’s equal parts fun, delicious, and crowd-pleasing? Look no further than the Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake. This towering, multi-layered masterpiece transforms the classic flavors of pepperoni pizza into an irresistible cake format—complete with gooey cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and crisp pepperoni slices between layers of tender pizza dough. If you want to take your next gathering to legendary status, this recipe delivers the ultimate slice of pizza heaven.
Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake
The Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake is more than a novelty—it’s a true feast. By stacking several rounds of homemade or store-bought pizza dough, each layered with robust marinara sauce, creamy mozzarella, and pepperoni, you create a spectacular, sliceable “cake” that’s perfect for serving a crowd. Each slice reveals mouthwatering strata of cheese and pepperoni, all encased in a golden, chewy crust. It’s a party dish that’s equal parts playful and practical, making it perfect for birthdays, game days, or any event that calls for pizza with a twist.
Ingredients
For the Pizza Dough (or use store-bought):
- 2 pounds pizza dough (homemade or ready-made, divided into 4–5 balls)
- Olive oil (for greasing and brushing)
For the Layers:
- 2 1/2 cups pizza or marinara sauce
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups sliced pepperoni (about 6 ounces)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, or mixed)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Optional Add-Ins:
- Sliced bell peppers, onions, black olives, or cooked sausage for extra layers
How To Make Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake
The magic is in the assembly: press out each dough round, layer with sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, then stack and bake in a tall cake pan. As it bakes, the layers meld into a dramatic, savory “cake” that slices beautifully. Using a springform or deep cake pan ensures easy release and a perfect presentation.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Equipment:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a tall 8-inch springform cake pan or deep-sided round cake pan with nonstick spray and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Divide the Dough:
Divide the pizza dough into 4 or 5 equal balls (depending on desired layers). On a lightly floured surface, roll each into a round just slightly smaller than your pan.
3. Par-Bake the Layers:
For best texture, bake each dough round on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 6–8 minutes, until just set but not browned. Let cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Layer Cake:
Place one par-baked dough round in the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread with a layer of sauce, a generous handful of mozzarella, and a layer of pepperoni. Repeat the process with remaining dough, sauce, cheese, and pepperoni, finishing with sauce, cheese, extra pepperoni, and a sprinkle of Parmesan and Italian seasoning on top.
5. Bake:
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the cake is heated through.
6. Rest and Release:
Let the pizza cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge and release the springform. Use a spatula to transfer to a serving platter.
7. Slice and Serve:
Cut into wedges with a sharp knife. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including dough rolling and par-baking)
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 10–12 as a party dish
Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Fiber: 2g
(Values will vary depending on dough and add-ins.)
Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake Party Serving Suggestions
This Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake is made for sharing! Serve alongside a crisp green salad, a bowl of marinara for dipping, and your favorite party drinks. For a vegetarian version, swap pepperoni for roasted veggies. Leftovers reheat well—simply wrap slices in foil and warm in the oven.
