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Halloween Bat-Shaped Calzones

These playful bat-shaped calzones are made by shaping dough into fun figures filled with cheesy meats and veggies. Baked until golden and crispy, they showcase a soft interior with a flaky crust, perfect for festive occasions or a cozy night in. Their charming appearance turns a simple pizza-inspired snack into a memorable treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ½ cups bread flour for structure and chewiness
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast or active dry yeast, activated beforehand
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar to feed the yeast
  • ¼ cup olive oil for tender dough and flavor
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water around 37°C (98.6°F), to activate yeast
  • 1 cup cheese blend mozzarella and cheddar for gooeyness
  • ½ cup smoked ham diced, optional but adds smoky flavor
  • 1 egg beaten for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon water mixed with egg for wash
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for the eyes, optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Knife
  • Pastry brush
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Mix the bread flour, instant yeast, salt, and sugar in a large bowl until well combined. This creates a flavorful foundation for your dough.
  2. Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough begins to form and pulls away from the bowl edges.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch.
  4. Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Divide the risen dough into four equal parts. Roll each piece into a 20cm circle using a rolling pin, aiming for an even thickness.
  7. Spoon some cheese and diced ham onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
  8. Fold the dough over the filling to create a crescent shape, pinching the edges tightly to seal in the filling and prevent leakage.
  9. Use a knife to carefully cut out wing shapes and ears on top of each calzone, giving them a bat-like appearance.
  10. Mix the beaten egg with water and brush this egg wash over each calzone to give a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds for the eyes if desired.
  11. Bake the calzones on the prepared baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up with a crispy crust.
  12. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and enjoy these fun, flavorful bat calzones with their crispy exterior and gooey filling inside.

Notes

Ensure the filling isn't too wet to prevent sogginess. For extra flavor, add herbs like oregano or basil to your fillings. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts when shaping wings and ears.