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Bat-Shaped Calzones

These playful bat-shaped calzones are made by filling elastic pizza dough with marinara, cheese, and optional fillings like pepperoni or vegetables, then shaping and baking until golden and crispy. The final result is a fun, cheesy, and slightly chewy pastry with a charming bat wing design that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or party treat.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for the dough
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 1/4 teaspoons
  • 3/4 cup warm water around 110°F, for activating yeast
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce bright and tangy
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices optional, for savory bites
  • 1 cup cooked chicken optional, diced
  • 1 egg beaten egg for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon water to mix with egg for egg wash
  • flour for dusting flour to prevent sticking

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Small knife
  • Fork
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Mix the warm water with yeast and a pinch of sugar in a bowl; let sit until frothy, about 5 minutes, to activate the yeast.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar; pour in the activated yeast mixture and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled in size.
  3. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Lightly dust your work surface with flour.
  4. Divide the risen dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin, round circle about 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter.
  5. Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, then add optional fillings like pepperoni or chicken as desired.
  6. Use a small knife to cut bat wing shapes along the edges of each circle. Fold the dough over to enclose the fillings and shape into a bat with wings.
  7. Press the edges firmly to seal, then use a fork to crimp and secure the seams so filling doesn’t escape during baking.
  8. Mix the beaten egg with water to create an egg wash. Brush this over the top of each calzone for a shiny, golden finish.
  9. Place the shaped calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is bubbling.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the fun, cheesy bites with a crispy exterior and melty interior.

Notes

Ensure edges are well sealed to prevent filling from leaking out. For extra golden color, brush with egg wash before baking. Feel free to customize fillings for different flavors and fun shapes.