Description
Whip up these fun bat-shaped calzones for a playful addition to any party or themed dinner. They’re a delightful way to enjoy cheesy, savory fillings encased in a crispy, golden crust, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup your filling of choice (e.g., pepperoni, spinach, mushrooms, or sweet options)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well.
- Add olive oil and warm water to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F).
- Lightly flour your work surface and punch down the dough. Divide it into small equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a 15cm (6-inch) circle with a rolling pin.
- Using a sharp knife, cut each circle into a bat shape with wings and ears.
- Transfer each shape onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spread your chosen fillings on one half of each bat shape, leaving a border to seal.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a semi-circle. Pinch the edges firmly to seal.
- Shape the wings and ears, and use a knife to add wing details.
- Brush the top of each calzone with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
Notes
- Dough should be smooth and elastic after kneading.
- Bats should hold their shape without tearing during filling and sealing.
- Calzones should be golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cheese inside should be melted and gooey.
- For overly sticky dough, chill it for 10 minutes, then soften with gentle kneading.
- If calzones are not sealing well, pinch edges tightly and avoid overfilling.
- If baking too dark, reduce oven temperature by 10°C.
- If crust isn’t crisp enough, increase baking time slightly or broil for the last 2 minutes.
- Feel free to get creative with fillings.
- These calzones are a hit at parties or for a fun family dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg