Authentic Italian Calzones

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Authentic Italian Calzones.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious calzone adventure, grab a mixing bowl and gently dissolve the yeast in warm water.

2. Step 2

   Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes delightfully foamy, signaling that it’s ready to work its magic.

3. Step 3

   Next, add a tablespoon of olive oil, a sprinkle of sugar, and a pinch of salt to the yeast mixture.

4. Step 4

   Stir in one cup of flour until everything is smooth and well combined.

5. Step 5

   Now, it’s time to gradually incorporate the remaining flour, mixing until your dough is smooth and easy to handle.

6. Step 6

   Once your dough is ready, transfer it to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about five minutes.

7. Step 7

   You want it to become elastic and a little springy, which is a sign that it’s just right.

8. Step 8

   Next, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil into a large bowl, place your kneaded dough inside, and give it a gentle flip to coat it in oil.

9. Step 9

   Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise until it nearly doubles in size, which should take around 40 minutes.

10. Step 10

    While the dough is rising, let’s prepare the scrumptious filling.

11. Step 11

    In a medium bowl, combine Cheddar cheese, ricotta cheese, pepperoni, mushrooms, and fresh basil leaves.

12. Step 12

    Mix everything together until well blended, then cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge to chill while you wait for the dough to rise.

13. Step 13

    Once the dough has puffed up beautifully, it’s time to get rolling—literally! Punch the dough down gently and divide it into two equal pieces.

14. Step 14

    On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a circle about 1/8-inch thick.

15. Step 15

    Now, take half of your cheesy, meaty filling and place it on one half of each circle.

16. Step 16

    Fold the dough over to create a lovely semicircle and press the edges down with a fork to seal in all that deliciousness.

17. Step 17

    To give your calzones a beautiful golden finish, brush the tops with a beaten egg.

18. Step 18

    Then, place them on a greased baking sheet, ready for the oven.

19. Step 19

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and once it’s hot, slide in your calzones.

20. Step 20

    Bake them for about 30 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

21. Step 21

    When they’re done, serve them hot and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade calzones!.