Ingredients

For the Dough (adapted from @andyseastcoastkitchen_):

• 3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or half whole wheat, half all-purpose)
  
• 2 tsp salt
  
• 1 tsp sugar
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 1/2 cups warm water
  
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
  
  

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup pizza or marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Your choice of small toppings:
  
  
  • Chopped peppers
    
  • Mushrooms
    
  • Turkey pepperoni
    
  • Cooked spinach
    
  • Olives
    (Or keep it classic with just sauce + cheese!)
    
    

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic (about 8–10 minutes by hand or in a mixer with a dough hook).

Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Roll and Fill

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.

Punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the sauce evenly, sprinkle cheese, and add toppings sparingly to avoid overflow.

3. Roll & Slice

Roll the dough up (like cinnamon rolls), then slice into 1.5-inch pieces. Place cut-side up on the baking sheet. Optional: brush tops with olive oil or melted butter.

4. Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving (especially for little mouths!).

Toddler + Family Notes

These pizza rolls are great eaten at the table or on monkey bars, as Ella would say 😉. You can:

• Cut them smaller for baby-led weaning
  
• Add just cheese + sauce for picky eaters
  
• Freeze extras for a grab-and-go toddler lunch
  
• Pack in a thermos to keep warm on the go
  
  

A Note on Dough & Balance

We used whole wheat flour for a fiber boost and slightly nutty flavor. Sourdough starter would work too if you’re feeling adventurous! These rolls offer the cozy feel of pizza night with a few gentle nutrition upgrades—because there’s room for both fun and nourishment on your plate.

Make These with Your Family?

Tag me @thefoodstylistrd! I love seeing your real-life lunchbox wins, toddler-approved creations, and messy little helpers in the kitchen 💜