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Spooky Bat-Shaped Calzones

These playful bat-shaped calzones are made with a simple pizza dough filled with marinara, cheese, and your choice of fillings. Shaped into winged bats, they bake into crispy, golden bites that are fun to make and delightful to eat, perfect for Halloween or themed parties. The final result features flaky, cheesy pockets with decorative black olive eyes and wings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 ¼ teaspoons
  • ¾ cup warm water about 110°F
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup marinara sauce bright and flavorful
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • ½ cup fillings of choice vegetables, meats, or plant-based options
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for brushing crust
  • to taste seasonings oregano, garlic powder, chili flakes
  • black or green olives sliced thin for eyes and wings

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small knife or scissors
  • Fork

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast. Mix briefly to distribute.
  2. Pour in warm water and olive oil, then stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Shape the dough into a ball, place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rest in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled 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 and roll each into a 20cm circle on a floured surface.
  7. Spread a spoonful of marinara sauce on one half of each dough circle, then sprinkle with cheese and your choice of fillings.
  8. Fold the dough over the filling to create a semicircle and seal the edges with a fork, pressing firmly.
  9. Use a small knife or scissors to cut out bat wings and eyes on each calzone for decoration.
  10. Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil for a crispy, golden finish.
  11. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until the calzones are puffed, golden, and crispy.
  12. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Decorate the eyes and wings with sliced olives for a spooky face, then serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Ensure the dough is elastic and not sticky for easy shaping. Adjust filling moisture to prevent sogginess. Seal edges thoroughly to prevent leaks during baking.