High-Protein Pepperoni Pizza Monkey Bread
High-Protein Pepperoni Pizza Monkey Bread
Pull-apart pizza monkey bread loaded with pepperoni and cheese — high protein, low carb, and ready in 50 minutes
This high-protein pepperoni pizza monkey bread is a fun, shareable version of pizza night. Soft dough pieces are stuffed with cheese and pepperoni, baked into a golden ring, and served with marinara for dipping. Every serving delivers 22 g of protein and only 6 g net carbs.
High protein, low carb, and perfect for parties or family dinner.
Why you’ll love this monkey bread
- 22g protein per serving — a high-protein pizza alternative
- Only 6g net carbs and fully low-carb
- Cheesy, pepperoni-filled pull-apart pieces
- Ready in about 50 minutes
- Fun for parties and sharing
- Dipping sauce in the center makes it interactive
Health notes
- High protein: Cheese, pepperoni, and a protein-boosted dough deliver the protein.
- Low carb: Almond-flour or mozzarella-based dough keeps net carbs low.
- Sugar-free: No added sugar in the dough or sauce.
- Shareable: Perfect for family or game-day snacking.
Key element — don’t overfill
Stuff the dough pieces lightly so they seal well and bake evenly. Too much filling can cause leaks and uneven cooking.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella
- 2 oz (55g) cream cheese
- 1½ cups almond flour
- 1 scoop unflavored or pizza-flavored protein powder (optional but recommended)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of salt
Filling & topping
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella
- 20–25 slices pepperoni, chopped or left whole
- 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1–2 Tbsp melted butter or olive oil for brushing
For serving
- ¾–1 cup low-carb marinara or pizza sauce (for the center and dipping)
Swaps
- Higher protein: Add an extra half scoop of protein powder and a splash of egg white if needed.
- Turkey pepperoni: Use for a leaner option.
- Extra cheese: Mix in a little cheddar or provolone with the mozzarella.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
Instructions
| 1 | Make the dough. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the mozzarella and cream cheese together (about 60–90 seconds), stirring until smooth. Quickly mix in the almond flour, protein powder, egg, baking powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt until a soft dough forms. Let cool slightly until easy to handle. |
| 2 | Portion and fill. Divide the dough into 16–20 small pieces. Flatten each piece, add a pinch of shredded mozzarella and a piece or two of pepperoni, then pinch closed into a ball. Place the balls in a greased ring mold, bundt pan, or arranged in a circle on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a space in the center for the sauce bowl. |
| 3 | Top and bake. Brush the tops with melted butter or oil. Sprinkle with Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through. |
| 4 | Serve. Let cool 5 minutes. Place a small bowl of warm marinara in the center and serve pull-apart style. |
Pro tips
- Work the dough while it is still warm so it stays pliable.
- Don’t overstuff the pieces — a modest amount of filling seals better.
- A silicone ring mold or bundt pan helps keep the circle shape.
- Warm the marinara just before serving for the best dipping experience.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Net carbohydrates | 6g |
| Total carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Total fat | 22g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
Estimates based on mozzarella dough, pepperoni, and cheese. Exact numbers vary with protein powder brand and portion size.
Variations
Supreme style
Add cooked sausage, diced peppers, and olives to the filling.
Cheese lovers
Skip the pepperoni and load the dough with extra mozzarella and Parmesan.
Spicy
Use spicy pepperoni and add red pepper flakes to the dough or topping.
Mini muffins
Bake individual stuffed balls in a muffin tin for easier portioning.
Storage
| Method | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Store covered |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Freeze baked pieces; reheat in the oven or air fryer |
| Reheat | Oven or air fryer | Keeps the exterior crisp |
FAQ
Test your knowledge
5 quick questions about this pepperoni pizza monkey bread
1. Protein per serving?
2. Net carbs per serving?
3. Why not overfill the dough pieces?
4. About how long does this take?
5. Best way to reheat leftovers?
