Before my mother passed away, she used to make us mini calzones at least once a month. We haven't had them in over 2 years and today presented a good time to make a few batches for the freezer.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED:
- Frozen Bread Dough
- Sliced Pepperoni
- Shredded Cheese
- Olive Oil
- Italian Seasoning
- Garlic Salt
Note: You can use whatever toppings you prefer. For our recipe today, we went with pepperoni and a blend of shredded cheese.
You will also need a knife to cut your dough, a small knife to poke air holes, and baking pans. We love these holey pizza pans for crispy crusts. A pastry brush is also helpful, but not necessary.
Another optional tool are cooling racks. If you do a lot of baking or bulk cooking, they really come in handy.
Macchiato likes to supervise... especially when there is food involved...
Cut each bread loaf into 8 pieces. Cover each piece, along with your hands, in olive oil. Press out each piece into a flat circle, around 6 inches wide.
Top each dough circle with a handful of cheese...
Then top with pepperoni (or other toppings), leaving space around the edge...
Sprinkle each with garlic salt and Italian seasoning...
As difficult as it may be, try to avoid eating them until you've had a chance to cook them...
Yeah... that means you! Just because you are helping to make them, doesn't mean you can eat all the pepperoni...
Did you say PEPPERONI?!
Anywho... Fold over each circle, making sure to keep all the ingredients on the inside. A little cheese sneaking out won't hurt anyone...
Crimp the edges of each semi-circle. Use your fingers to move the dough over each previous crimp to ensure your toppings won't leak out.
Brush lightly with olive oil or spray with butter flavored cooking spray...
Sprinkle tops with additional Italian seasoning and Parmesan Cheese (optional)...
Bake at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown...
Remove from oven and allow to cook if planning on freezing your calzones. They can be reheated in the microwave or tossed in the oven to reheat and eat...
Serve with your favorite pasta sauce... Great for parties and lunches... Good at room temperature...