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Spooky Bat-Shaped Calzones

These playful bat-shaped calzones are made from a tender, airy dough filled with melty cheese and your choice of savory fillings. Baked until golden and crispy, they showcase a fun, spooky silhouette perfect for a themed dinner or festive gathering. The final result is a crispy, cheesy treat with charming winged shapes that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour good quality for tender crust
  • 1 package dry yeast about 2 ¼ teaspoons
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup warm water about 110°F
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • ½ cup ham, chopped
  • 1 egg beaten egg for egg wash

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Dough Scraper or Rolling Pin
  • Baking Sheet lined with parchment
  • Cookie cutter or sharp knife
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Mix the warm water with the dry yeast in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy—that's how you know the yeast is active.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir with a spoon or dough scraper until it begins to come together.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until it feels smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
  4. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Gently punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out to about 0.5 cm thick with a rolling pin.
  7. Use a cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out bat-shaped silhouettes from the dough.
  8. Place a small spoonful of cheese and chopped ham onto one half of each bat shape, leaving a border around the edges.
  9. Fold the other half over the filling, pressing the edges together firmly to seal. Pinch and shape the wings with your fingers or a knife for a spooky silhouette.
  10. Arrange the shaped calzones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  11. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish, and bake for 15–20 minutes until crispy and deep golden brown.
  12. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm—these crispy, cheesy bats are perfect for a fun, spooky snack!

Notes

Ensure the dough is evenly rolled for uniform baking. Seal edges well to prevent filling from escaping. Watch oven temperature to avoid burning the crust. Look for a deep golden color and a crackling crust as signs of perfect doneness.