If you love pizza and want to take your pizza game to new heights—literally—this Pepperoni Pizza Cake is the ultimate treat. A towering, cheesy, saucy deep-dish pizza layered like a cake, this dish is bold, indulgent, and unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a game night, celebrating a birthday, or just craving something spectacular, this recipe is a showstopper.
This complete guide will walk you through every step, from homemade dough to baking tips, creative customizations, serving ideas, and more. Let’s get started with this family-favorite masterpiece.
Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need
For the Homemade Dough (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pizza Cake Filling
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 30–40 slices of pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Kitchen Tools
- 8 or 9-inch springform pan (or a deep cake pan)
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step 1: Make the Dough (Or Use Store-Bought)
Activating the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
- Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Mixing & Kneading
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes.
- Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 60 minutes until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepping the Pizza Cake
Preheat Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Rolling Out the Dough
- Divide the dough into three parts.
- Roll two into circles to fit the bottom and top of the pan.
- Roll the third into a long strip for the sides.
Assembling the Layers
- Grease your springform pan with olive oil.
- Press the long strip around the inner walls of the pan.
- Place the first circle at the bottom.
Layering Like a Cake
Repeat the following steps for 3–4 layers:
- Spread 1/3 cup of pizza sauce.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 cup mozzarella.
- Add 8–10 pepperoni slices.
- Sprinkle Parmesan.
Finish with the top circle of dough. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle garlic powder and oregano.
Step 3: Baking to Perfection
Into the Oven
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Cooling & Serving
- Let it cool for 5–10 minutes.
- Release from the pan.
- Slice like a cake and serve hot.
Customization Ideas
1. Meat Lovers
Add layers of cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or ham.
2. Vegetarian Delight
Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, spinach, and olives are delicious substitutes.
3. Extra Cheesy
Add ricotta, cheddar, provolone, or gouda for complex flavor.
Tips for Success
Avoiding a Soggy Bottom
- Pre-bake the bottom dough for 5 minutes before assembling.
Preventing Sliding Layers
- Allow the pizza cake to cool slightly before slicing.
Getting a Crispy Crust
- Brush the interior with olive oil before adding sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Dips
- Extra pizza sauce
- Ranch or garlic aioli
Side Dishes
- Caesar or garden salad
- Garlic bread
Drinks
- Red wine (Merlot, Chianti)
- IPA or Pilsner beer
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-made dough?
Yes! It’s a great shortcut and works well.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use any gluten-free pizza dough available in stores.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Wrap individual slices in foil and freeze up to 3 months.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble it the night before and bake when ready.
What if I don’t have a springform pan?
Use a deep cake pan lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
Final Thoughts
This Pepperoni Pizza Cake is more than just a meal—it’s a centerpiece. Rich, hearty, and full of classic pizza flavors, it’s guaranteed to leave your guests impressed and your family asking for seconds. With easy customizations, foolproof techniques, and tons of cheesy goodness, this recipe deserves a spot in your go-to comfort food collection.
