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Spooky Bat-Shaped Calzones

These playful calzones are made with basic pizza dough filled with melty mozzarella, savory ham, and fresh spinach. Shaped into bats with cut-out wings and ears, they bake to a golden crisp, offering a fun, satisfying snack with a cozy, chewy interior and a crispy exterior. Perfect for spooky season or any playful gathering, they’re a delightful mix of creativity and comfort.
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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: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 packet Active dry yeast about 2 1/4 teaspoons
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water about 110°F/45°C
  • 1 teaspoon sugar to activate yeast
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour for nuttiness
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 egg egg beaten for wash
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional, for seasoning

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Scissors
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy, signaling the yeast is activated.
  2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook.
  3. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
  4. Divide the risen dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a thin circle, about 20 cm in diameter, on a floured surface.
  5. Spread a handful of shredded mozzarella and chopped ham over half of each circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Add some chopped spinach on top of the fillings.
  6. Fold each dough circle in half over the fillings to form a semi-circle, then pinch and seal the edges firmly to prevent spilling during baking.
  7. Use scissors to carefully cut out bat wings and ears from the top of each calzone. Attach them with a little water if needed to secure them.
  8. Arrange the shaped calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish.
  9. Bake the calzones in a preheated oven at 220°C (430°F) for about 15-20 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  10. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy your spooky, playful calzones with friends or family!

Notes

Ensure the dough is elastic and not sticky during kneading. Don't overfill to prevent bursting. Brushing with egg enhances the golden color and shine.