Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400-425°F (200-220°C) according to your pizza dough instructions. Lightly grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Divide pizza dough into three equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into an 8-inch circle, thin enough to fit neatly into your prepared cake pans.
Step 3: Transfer one dough circle to a prepared cake pan. Spread a thin, even layer of marinara sauce (about 1/4 cup) over the dough, leaving about a half-inch border.
Step 4: Sprinkle about 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Arrange a generous layer of pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
Step 5: Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for the remaining two dough portions in their respective cake pans, creating three individual pepperoni pizza layers.
Step 6: Bake all three pizza layers in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 7: Carefully remove the baked pizza layers from their pans and let them cool for 5-10 minutes on a wire rack. This makes them easier to handle.
Step 8: Place one pizza layer on your serving platter or cake stand. Spread a thin layer of extra marinara sauce (about 1/4 cup) over its top.
Step 9: Top with another layer of shredded mozzarella (about 1 cup) and a scattering of fresh pepperoni slices.
Step 10: Carefully place the second pizza layer on top, pressing down gently. Repeat with another thin layer of sauce (about 1/4 cup), cheese (about 1 cup), and pepperoni.
Step 11: Finally, place the third pizza layer on top. For the grand finale, spread the remaining marinara sauce (about 1/4 cup) evenly over the top layer. Sprinkle generously with the remaining mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup) and arrange a decorative pattern with the last of your pepperoni slices.
Step 12: Return the assembled pepperoni pizza layer cake to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top cheese layer is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. If desired, you can broil for the last minute or two for extra crispiness, watching very closely to prevent burning.
Step 13: Let the pepperoni pizza layer cake rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner cuts. Serve warm and enjoy the applause!