You only love me for my dough

I know I outlined a very busy few days yesterday, but I had a change in plans tonite and ended up getting home sooner than expected. So, I took advantage of those found hours and started on Project Pep Bread.

I sometimes wonder if the only reason I get asked to be in weddings nowadays is because everyone knows it's become sort of my "thing" to make pepperoni bread for snacking on while crusing around in the party bus.

I guess it's my little "thank you" of sorts to the bride and groom for having me in their wedding. (And, to be honest, it may also be a teeny selfish ploy to win over the hearts -- and stomachs -- of any single groomsmen.)

Here's how to make pepperoni bread (whether you're a bridesmaid or not):

• THE INGREDIENTS (per loaf): 1/4 pound pepperoni, bag of shredded cheese, fresh (not frozen) dough (I usually buy unbaked crusts from local pizza joints, but grocery stores often sell fresh dough in the deli area), melted butter


• THE PREP: Coat a cookie pan with cooking spray. Knead/push out the dough to the edges of the pan (all around). Cover dough with cheese. Cover cheese with pepperoni. Roll into a "log" shape (keep it longer vs. wider... that's what she said). Make sure the seam is on the bottom before baking. Brush with melted butter.


• THE BAKING: Bake in a 375-degree oven for about half an hour (or until the bread looks golden). Let cool and cut into slices.


• THE EATING: Enjoy with a cold beer or glass of bubbly. NOTE: in the unfortunate chance that any pepperoni grease gets on the bride's gown during this stage, use a Shout Wipe to dab it out. Proven remedy.

Could not be easier. Or more yummy.

Now I just have to figure out how to resist the urge to devour the three loaves that are bubbling up in the oven right now.

(OK, maybe I'll have ooooonnnnneeee little piece... just to make sure it tastes ok, alright? Back off.)

***** U P D A T E *****

Confirmation on the delicious factor. Had two pieces once the loaves cooled last nite (for quality control purposes, of course).