HOMEMADE PIZZA POCKETS

HOMEMADE PIZZA POCKETS

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Your favorite pizza toppings (pepperoni, cooked sausage, diced ham, bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, etc.)

For Brushing:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan for sprinkling on top

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
• Mix until the dough starts to come together. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

1. Prepare the Filling:

• While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza toppings and shred the cheeses.

1. Assemble the Pizza Pockets:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
• On one half of each circle, spread a tablespoon of pizza sauce, leaving a small border around the edge.
• Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
• Add your favorite pizza toppings.

1. Seal the Pockets:

• Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
• Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal securely.
• Place the pizza pockets on the prepared baking sheet.

1. Egg Wash:

• Brush the tops of the pizza pockets with the beaten egg.
• Optional: Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pizza pockets are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.

1. Serve:

• Let the pizza pockets cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with extra pizza sauce for dipping if desired.

Tips:

• You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before using.
• Customize the fillings to suit your kids’ preferences.

Enjoy your homemade pizza pockets