Steam wafted through the kitchen as I rolled out the dough, instantly transporting me to that beloved Italian pizzeria down the street. Making homemade calzones is like crafting little pockets of joy, each one customizable to suit your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for savory soppressata or a scrumptious vegetarian eggplant filling, these golden brown handheld delights are a delightful escape from fast food. The dough benefits from a slow rise, enhancing its flavor and the anticipation of a cozy dinner at home. Not to mention, they’re a fun weekend project that the whole family can help with. Curious about how to make your own calzones and personalize the fillings? Let’s dive in and create a comforting feast together!
Why Are Calzones So Irresistible?
Customization, Every bite of these calzones can be uniquely yours! Choose from savory options like soppressata or switch to a vegetarian delight bursting with eggplant and basil. Making Memories, This recipe makes cooking a fun family activity that brings everyone together in the kitchen. Time-Saving, Serve a homemade meal in less than an hour from prep to plate. Comfort Food, Enjoy the satisfying crunch of golden-brown dough enveloping ooey-gooey cheese, perfect for warming your soul. Crowd-Pleasing, Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual party, your guests will be raving about this delicious treat! For more inspiration, check out my customizable fillings and discover how to suit every taste!
Calzone Ingredients
• Get ready to create your own delicious calzones!
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast; use water between 105°F to 112°F for optimum results.
- Active Dry Yeast – Ferments the dough, causing it to rise; ensure it's fresh for a good rise.
- Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast to help it grow; optional for boosting yeast activation.
- Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness; can use all-purpose flour for a tenderer dough.
- "00" Flour – High-protein flour enhances dough's texture; substitute with all-purpose flour if needed.
- Fine Salt – Balances flavor and strengthens gluten structure.
- Olive Oil – Adds moisture and flavor while aiding in dough handling.
For the Filling
- Mozzarella Cheese – Main filling ingredient for gooey texture; use low-moisture cheese to prevent sogginess.
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
- Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese – Intensifies flavor; it can be used as a topping as well.
- Fresh Basil – Adds aroma and peppery notes; substitute with dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
- Soppressata/Salami – Adds savory and spicy flavor; can be replaced with veggies for a vegetarian calzone.
For Assembly
- Egg & Water – Use as an egg wash for sealing and achieving a golden crust.
- Marinara Sauce – Essential for dipping; elevates the authentic flavor of your homemade calzones.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Customizable Calzones
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing 1 cup of warm water (105°F to 112°F), 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar in a bowl; let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. In a stand mixer, combine 2 cups of bread flour, 1 cup of “00” flour, and 1 teaspoon of fine salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Once your dough is formed, transfer it to a bowl coated with olive oil, turning it to ensure it’s well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours; this slow rise enhances flavor and texture. After this resting period, your dough should be puffy and ready for shaping into delightful calzones.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into four equal balls. Place these dough balls back in the refrigerator to chill for another 24 hours. When ready to assemble, take each ball and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, making it easier to roll out.
Step 4: Make the Filling
While the dough is resting, prepare your filling in a mixing bowl. Combine 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of ricotta cheese, and ¼ cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. Add some chopped fresh basil, a pinch of salt, and pepper as desired. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined, ready to pile into the calzones.
Step 5: Assemble the Calzones
Roll out each chilled dough ball on a lightly floured surface into a 9-inch circle. Spoon about a quarter of the cheese mixture onto one half of the circle, adding any additional fillings like soppressata or vegetables. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together, and use an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with a splash of water) to seal; crimp with a fork for extra security.
Step 6: Bake the Calzones
Preheat your oven to 500°F and place a baking sheet inside to heat. Once the oven is ready, carefully slide the assembled calzones onto the hot baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes or until the calzones are puffed and golden brown, beautifully crisp on the outside, and oozing flavorful fillings inside.
Step 7: Serve with Marinara
After baking, remove the calzones from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. These homemade calzones are best enjoyed hot, served with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Watch as your friends and family delve into these golden treats, amazed at your culinary skill!
Storage Tips for Calzones
Room Temperature: Calzones can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours if they aren’t cut. After that, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm them in the oven for the best texture when reheating.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked calzones for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for optimal freshness, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To reheat baked calzones, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to get them warm and crispy once again. Enjoy your homemade calzones at your convenience!
Expert Tips for Calzones
- Dough Temperature: Always use warm water between 105°F to 112°F to activate the yeast effectively for your calzones.
- Don’t Overstuff: Aim for balance in your fillings to avoid difficulties in sealing and prevent sogginess. Overstuffing can lead to calzones bursting during baking.
- Chill Dough: Refrigerating the dough twice enhances its flavor and eases rolling, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable calzone-making experience.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to simplify the transfer of calzones and prevent sticking.
- Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, enjoy your calzones fresh from the oven while they're still warm and ooey-gooey!
What to Serve with Customizable Calzones
Complement your homemade calzones with delightful sides and drinks that enhance the comforting experience.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: The perfect sidekick to soak up marinara sauce, adding a crunchy texture with a savory garlic punch.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tomatoes and cucumbers adds brightness and balances the richness of the calzones with every bite. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for extra flavor!
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites complement the calzones beautifully, packed with herbs and cheese, making them an irresistible appetizer to share.
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Roasted Vegetables: With their caramelized edges and natural sweetness, roasted seasonal veggies create a warm and inviting contrast to the cheesy calzones.
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Homemade Marinara Sauce: Serve a side of this classic sauce for dipping, enhancing each calzone's flavor and keeping that Italian vibe alive.
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Italian Soda: A fizzy, refreshing drink with a splash of flavor can cleanse the palate between bites, perfectly balancing the richness of your meal.
For dessert, consider pairing with Tiramisu or Panna Cotta for a sweet finish to your comforting feast. Each addition completes your Italian-inspired dinner with love and warmth!
Calzone Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine in the kitchen as you customize your calzones to match your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese alternatives for a delicious non-dairy filling while keeping the gooey, comforting texture.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten-sensitive family members. Your calzones will still be a delight!
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Smoking Hot: Infuse your filling with diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, awakening your taste buds with every bite.
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Mediterranean Flair: Swap in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a tangy, herby version that transports you to the coast of Italy with every mouthful.
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Sweet Surprise: Use Nutella and banana for a delightful dessert calzone. The combination creates a heavenly treat that's perfect for a sweet ending!
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Protein Boost: Add cooked quinoa or lentils to your filling for extra fiber and plant-based protein, making your calzones both hearty and nourishing.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme in the dough for an aromatic twist that enhances flavor from the very first bite.
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Sausage & Peppers: Mix in sautéed bell peppers and spicy Italian sausage for a bold, savory filling that adds a satisfying meaty-quality to your calzone.
As you create your culinary masterpiece, consider pairing these calzones with a classic Marinara sauce for dipping, or check out my customizable fillings for even more inspiring ideas. Enjoy each bite as a celebration of flavor and creativity!
Make Ahead Options
These calzones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to enhance its flavor. After mixing, let it rise in a lightly oiled bowl and then cover it with plastic wrap before placing it in the fridge. If you're short on time, you can also mix your filling in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply roll out the dough, fill it, seal the edges, and bake at 500°F for 12-15 minutes. This way, you'll enjoy delicious, homemade calzones with minimal effort, just as if they were freshly made!
Calzone Recipe FAQs
What if my dough didn’t rise properly?
Absolutely, a common culprit is inactive yeast! Ensure your yeast is fresh and activated correctly by using warm water (105°F to 112°F) and letting it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. If the dough doesn’t rise, try letting it sit in a warm, draft-free area or consider doubling the yeast amount next time.
How do I choose the best ingredients for my calzone fillings?
Very! For optimal flavor, use high-quality ingredients. Ensure your cheeses are low-moisture to prevent sogginess. When selecting vegetables like eggplant or broccoli rabe, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. Fresh basil should be fragrant and bright green, while any meats should be fresh and from a trusted source.
How should I store leftover calzones?
For storing, place any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often recommend reheating them in an oven set at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture—you'll love how fresh they taste!
Can I freeze unbaked calzones?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap unbaked calzones tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This method keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the usual baking time for perfectly crispy results.
Is it okay to make vegetarian calzones?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe for vegetarian diets. Just replace meats like soppressata with vegetables such as artichoke hearts or sautéed mushrooms. Be sure to mix and match cheeses and fresh herbs to make the filling vibrant and delicious while keeping it meat-free.
How do I know when my calzones are perfectly baked?
When baked, your calzones should have a beautiful golden-brown color and be puffed up, indicating they’re filled with warm, gooey goodness. Typically, they take about 12-15 minutes at 500°F in the oven. Keep an eye on them towards the end to catch that perfect, crispy finish!
Delicious Calzones: Easy, Customizable Comfort Food Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a bowl; let sit until frothy.
- Combine bread flour, "00" flour, and fine salt in a stand mixer. Gradually add yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Transfer dough to an oiled bowl; cover and refrigerate for 24 hours to enhance flavor.
- Divide dough into four balls and chill for another 24 hours; let sit at room temp for 30 minutes before rolling.
- In a bowl, mix mozzarella, ricotta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- Roll each dough ball into a 9-inch circle; add filling, fold, seal with egg wash and crimp edges.
- Preheat oven to 500°F, bake calzones on heated baking sheet for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool for a minute, serve warm with marinara sauce.
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