best calzone dough recipe

The Best best calzone dough recipe

I have been making calzones for my family for years and this dough recipe is hands down the best I have ever tried. It comes out perfectly every time with a golden crispy outside and a soft chewy inside that holds all the fillings without getting soggy. My kids love when I make these because they can pick their own fillings and I love that I can sneak in some veggies without them complaining.

This recipe is great for busy weeknights or for a fun weekend dinner when you want something a little special. The key to this dough is letting it rest long enough to develop the gluten which gives it that perfect texture. I use a simple mix of flour yeast salt olive oil and warm water and it comes together in just a few minutes.

The dough is easy to work with and does not stick to your hands if you use a little flour on your work surface. I have tried many recipes over the years and this one is the most reliable for a home cook. This calzone dough is also healthier than store bought versions because you control the ingredients and there are no preservatives or additives.

You can use whole wheat flour for half the white flour to add more fiber and nutrients. The olive oil adds healthy fats and the yeast gives a nice rise without any heavy feeling. My family does not even notice the difference when I use whole wheat and they eat every bite.

I love making a big batch of this dough and keeping it in the fridge for a few days. It actually gets better after a day or two because the flavors meld together. You can use it for calzones pizza or even breadsticks.

This recipe is a staple in my kitchen and I am sure it will become one in yours too.

Best Calzone Dough Recipe

4.6 from 1980 votes

This homemade calzone dough is soft chewy and golden brown with a perfect crisp on the outside. It is easy to make with simple ingredients and comes together in under an hour.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Filling (Optional)

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni
1/2 cup marinara sauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl combine the warm water sugar and yeast.
2Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly which means the yeast is active.
3If it does not foam start over with fresh yeast as the old one may be expired.
4In a large mixing bowl whisk together the flour and salt.
5Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
6Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
7Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
8If the dough is too sticky add a little more flour one tablespoon at a time.
9You should be able to press your finger into the dough and it springs back slightly.
10Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel.
11Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until it has doubled in size.
12The dough should feel puffy and airy when you poke it gently.
13Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
14Punch down the dough to release the air then divide it into 4 equal pieces.
15Roll each piece into a 8 inch circle about 1/4 inch thick.
16Place your desired fillings on one half of each dough circle leaving a 1/2 inch border.
17Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal.
18Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they are tightly closed so the filling does not leak during baking.
19Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a little olive oil.
20Cut a few small slits on top to let steam escape.
21Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
22Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Clean kitchen towel

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

Tips: For a crispier crust brush the calzones with an egg wash before baking. You can also add herbs like oregano or garlic powder to the dough for extra flavor. Leftover dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Best Calzone Dough Recipe Works

This calzone dough recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is simple versatile and never fails. I make it for family gatherings game nights or just a cozy dinner at home and everyone always asks for the recipe.

The dough stores well in the fridge or freezer so you can have it ready whenever you need a quick meal. To store leftover calzones let them cool completely then wrap them in foil and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat place them in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until the crust is crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping and a side salad for a complete meal. This recipe is a keeper and I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Calzone Dough

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all purpose flour?

Yes you can substitute up to half of the all purpose flour with whole wheat flour. The dough will be denser and slightly nuttier in flavor. You may need to add a little extra water because whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

2. How do I store leftover calzone dough?

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight before using.

3. Why is my dough not rising?

This usually happens if the yeast is old or the water temperature is too hot or too cold. Make sure the water is between 105°F and 115°F. If the yeast does not foam when activated it is likely expired and you need a new packet.

4. Can I make this dough in a bread machine?

Yes you can use a bread machine on the dough setting. Add the ingredients according to your machine’s instructions. The dough will be ready to shape after the cycle is complete.

5. How do I prevent the calzone from leaking during baking?

Make sure to seal the edges tightly by crimping with a fork. Do not overfill the calzone leave a border around the edges. Also cut a few slits on top to let steam escape which helps prevent bursting.

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