The Secret to Perfect Calzones Lies in This Dough: Find Out How

Is there anything better than sinking your teeth into a delicious, warm, and satisfying calzone? It’s hard to resist these Italian pockets of goodness, and the secret behind their perfection lies in the calzone dough! In this all-encompassing guide, we’ll delve into the world of calzone dough, providing you with essential knowledge and answering all the questions you’ve been curious about. So, are you ready to embark on a journey to calzone mastery? Let’s dive in!

Calzone Dough vs. Pizza Dough: What’s the Difference?

One of the most common questions people have is: “Is calzone dough different from pizza dough?” The truth is, they’re quite similar, but there are some subtle differences.

• Thickness: Calzone dough is often slightly thicker than original pizza dough, giving it a more robust texture that can hold up to the delicious filling inside. This difference in thickness also affects the baking time and temperature.
• Ingredients: Some calzone dough recipes may contain additional ingredients such as sugar or olive oil, which can enhance the flavor and texture of the crust. However, the core ingredients (flour, water, yeast, and salt) are the same.
• Shape and Handling: Pizza dough is typically rolled out flat, while calzone dough is folded over the filling to create a pocket. This difference in handling can affect the overall texture and appearance of the final product.

Pizza Crust vs. Calzone Crust

“What’s the difference between pizza crust and calzone crust?” you might ask. Essentially, the main difference is in the handling and shaping, as mentioned above. Calzone crust is folded over to encase the filling, while pizza crust is left flat to hold toppings. This folding technique gives the calzone crust a unique, pocket-like appearance and a slightly thicker texture compared to pizza crust.

The Bread Behind Calzones

So, “what bread is a calzone made of?” The answer is simple: calzone dough! Calzone dough is a type of leavened bread dough, similar to pizza dough, but with a few tweaks as we discussed earlier. It’s usually made with all-purpose or bread flour, water, yeast, salt, and sometimes additional ingredients like sugar or olive oil.

Calzones vs. Pizzas: A Tale of Two Italian Favorites

Are calzones different from pizzas? Are calzones just folded pizzas? To put it simply, yes and no. While both calzones and pizzas share similar ingredients and origins, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.

• Shape and Presentation: Pizzas are flat and topped with ingredients, while calzones are folded pockets stuffed with filling.
• Toppings and Fillings: Pizzas have toppings, while calzones have fillings. Calzones often contain ricotta cheese, which is not a typical pizza topping. Some calzones also have pizza sauce inside, while others serve it on the side for dipping.
• Cooking Method: Both calzones and pizzas are baked, but calzones can also be fried, especially in some regions of Italy.

Are Calzones More Unhealthy Than Pizza?

The healthiness of a calzone largely depends on the ingredients used for the dough and filling. Generally speaking, calzones can be more calorie dense and higher in fat due to the folded crust and the addition of rich fillings like ricotta cheese. However, by choosing healthier filling options and controlling portion sizes, you can still enjoy a calzone as part of a balanced diet.

Why is My Calzone Soggy?

A soggy calzone can be disappointing, but the good news is, it’s preventable! Here are some common reasons for a soggy calzone and how to avoid them:

• Overstuffed filling: Too much filling can cause the dough to become soggy. Be mindful of portion sizes and don’t overstuff your calzone.
• Wet ingredients: Moist fillings like sautéed vegetables can release moisture during baking, leading to a soggy crust. Try to drain or pat dry these ingredients before adding them to your calzone.
• Insufficient baking time or temperature: A low baking temperature or short baking time can result in a doughy, undercooked crust. Make sure to follow the recommended baking time and temperature for your specific calzone dough recipe.

What Makes a Calzone a Calzone?

A calzone is defined by its folded, pocket-like shape, which encases a variety of fillings, including cheese, meats, and vegetables. The dough is usually thicker than regular pizza dough or even sourdough, and the fillings can be different from those found on a pizza, such as ricotta cheese.

Do Calzones Have Pizza Sauce in Them?

Some calzones have pizza sauce inside, while others serve it on the side for dipping. It’s a matter of personal preference and varies depending on the specific recipe and regional variations.

Are Calzones Baked or Fried?

Calzones are traditionally baked, but they can also be fried, especially in some regions of Italy. Fried calzones have a crispier, golden exterior, while baked calzones typically have a softer, chewier crust.

Why Do Calzones Have Ricotta?

Ricotta cheese is a popular calzone filling because of its creamy texture and mild flavor, which complements other ingredients like meats and vegetables. The addition of ricotta also helps to differentiate calzones from pizzas, which typically do not include ricotta as a topping.

Calzone-Making in Italy: A Regional Delight

Calzones are made differently throughout Italy, with regional variations in the dough, fillings, and cooking methods. Some regions prefer baked calzones, while others enjoy fried versions. The choice of fillings also varies, with some areas using local cheeses, meats, and vegetables.

The Only Calzone Dough Recipe You Will Ever Need

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup lukewarm water
• 1 packet of active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 cups all-purpose flour

Directions:

1. Mix 1/2 cup lukewarm water and yeast in a small bowl. Let stand for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup water, olive oil, honey, and salt. Add 1 cup flour and mix well.
3. Mix yeast mixture into the flour mixture. Add remaining flour, 1 cup at a time, until dough is well combined.
4. Knead dough on a floured surface for 8 minutes until soft and elastic.
5. Roll dough into 4 calzone shapes or 1 large pizza.
6. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Fill the dough with your favorite ingredients, or top it with your favorite toppings for pizza.
7. Bake in preheated oven until crust is lightly browned, 15-20 minutes.

Here are some additional tips for even better results:

• Use lukewarm water to activate the yeast. Water that is too hot can kill the yeast and prevent the dough from rising properly.
• Be sure to let the yeast mixture stand for 5 minutes. This allows the yeast to activate and create the bubbles that will make the dough rise.
• When kneading the dough, use flour as needed to prevent it from sticking to your work surface. However, be careful not to use too much flour, as this can make the dough too dry.
• For the toppings, you can use whatever you like. Popular options include tomato sauce, cheese, vegetables, and meats. Just be careful not to overfill the dough, as this can make it difficult to seal.
• If you’re making calzones, be sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking.
• Let the calzones or pizza cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the cheese and toppings to set and prevents them from sliding off.

In Summary

Calzone dough is a fascinating and delicious aspect of Italian cuisine, with subtle differences from its cousin, pizza dough. Understanding the nuances of calzone dough, its regional variations, and the various methods for making it can help you create the perfect calzone in your own kitchen.

So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to master the art of calzone dough! Whether you’re following the best calzone dough recipe, trying your hand at a no-yeast version, or experimenting with an overnight calzone dough, you’re sure to create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will delight friends and family alike. Buon appetito!