Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. Ensure the pans are well-coated to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Divide the pizza dough into three equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a 9-inch circle, roughly 1/4 inch thick. Carefully transfer each dough circle into a prepared cake pan.
Step 3: Spread approximately 1/3 cup of pizza sauce evenly over each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Avoid over-saucing to prevent a soggy crust.
Step 4: Distribute about 1/2 cup of mozzarella and 1/3 cup of provolone cheese over the sauce on each dough layer. Then, arrange an even layer of pepperoni slices over the cheese.
Step 5: In one of the cake pans, carefully stack a second filled pizza layer on top of the first. Then, place the third filled pizza layer on top of that, creating a three-layer pizza cake. Gently press down on the top layer to help the layers adhere.
Step 6: Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly and melted, and the pepperoni edges are slightly crispy. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Once baked, remove the pepperoni pizza layer cake from the oven. Let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. This crucial cooling time allows the cheese and layers to set, making it easier to transfer and slice.
Step 8: Carefully invert the pizza layer cake onto a large serving plate or cutting board. Garnish with fresh basil or oregano, if desired.
Step 9: Slice the pepperoni pizza layer cake into wedges and serve immediately while hot and gooey. Enjoy this spectacular creation!