Calzone (Folded Pizza Pocket) Recipe

Perfect for beginners – soft, cheesy, and loaded with flavor!

✅ Ingredients (Makes 4 medium calzones)

🔸 For the Dough:
 • 2½ cups all-purpose flour (about 300g)
 • 1 tsp instant dry yeast
 • 1 tsp sugar
 • ¾ cup warm water (180ml)
 • 2 tbsp olive oil
 • ¾ tsp salt

🔸 For the Filling:

(you can mix and match!)
 • ½ cup shredded mozzarella
 • ¼ cup ricotta or cream cheese
 • ¼ cup cooked chopped salami or ham
 • 2 tbsp tomato sauce
 • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
 • Optional: olives, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach

🔸 For Brushing:
 • 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (for golden color)
 • Optional: grated parmesan for topping

⏱️ Step-by-Step Instructions

🔹 1. Make the Dough:
 1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
➜ Let it sit for 10 minutes until bubbly.
 2. Add olive oil, then mix in flour gradually.
 3. Add salt, and knead the dough 8–10 mins by hand or 5 mins with mixer.
 4. Cover and let rise for 1 hour in a warm place, until doubled.

🔹 2. Prepare the Filling:
 1. In a bowl, mix:
 • Mozzarella
 • Ricotta/cream cheese
 • Chopped salami/ham
 • Tomato sauce
 • Oregano
 2. Set aside. (Keep cold if needed.)

🔹 3. Shape the Calzones:
 1. After rising, divide the dough into 4 equal balls.
 2. Roll each ball into a small circle (about 18 cm) on a floured surface.
 3. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling on one half of the circle, leaving edges clean.
 4. Fold the dough over to make a half-moon shape.
 5. Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.

🔹 4. Brush & Bake:
 1. Place calzones on a parchment-lined tray.
 2. Brush the tops with egg yolk + milk for a golden finish.
 3. Optional: sprinkle parmesan on top.
 4. Use a knife to cut one small slit on top of each calzone to let steam out.

🔹 5. Bake:
 • Preheat oven to 220°C (430°F) for 15 minutes.
 • Bake calzones for 12–15 minutes until golden and crispy.

✅ Serving Suggestions:
 • Serve hot with extra tomato or marinara sauce on the side.
 • Great for lunchboxes or a cozy dinner.

✅ Tips for Perfect Calzones:
 • Don’t overfill — or they may burst while baking.
 • Seal edges well using fork or by folding the edge over.
 • Try vegetarian versions: spinach + feta, or mushrooms + mozzarella.