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Spooky Bat-Shaped Calzones

These bat-shaped calzones are a fun and festive twist on classic stuffed bread, perfect for Halloween. They feature a flaky, golden crust filled with gooey cheese and flavorful toppings, with decorative wings and ears to resemble bats. The process involves shaping, filling, and baking until puffy and crispy, creating an eye-catching centerpiece and delicious snack.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups bread flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast or instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup warm water about 110°F (43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese low-moisture preferred, grated
  • ½ cup pepperoni slices or other fillings like cooked sausage or veggies
  • 1 egg beaten egg for egg wash
  • 1 teaspoon water to mix with beaten egg

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Pastry cutter or knife
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Combine the warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy, signaling the yeast is active.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Divide the risen dough into four equal parts. Roll each portion into a 20 cm (8-inch) circle on a floured surface using a rolling pin.
  6. Spread some grated mozzarella and pepperoni slices over half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
  7. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly to seal, ensuring no filling escapes during baking.
  8. Use a pastry cutter or knife to cut out wing shapes and ears from the extra dough or cheese. Attach these to the calzones for a bat appearance.
  9. Mix the beaten egg with a teaspoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush this over the tops of the calzones for a shiny, golden finish.
  10. Place the decorated calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffy.
  11. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm for a fun, spooky treat that’s crispy on the outside and cheesy inside.

Notes

Ensure dough is fully risen for a light texture. Seal edges well to prevent filling leaks. Decorate creatively for a festive look.