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
- 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.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is rising, prepare your pizza toppings and shred the cheeses.
- 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.
- 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.
- Egg Wash:
- Brush the tops of the pizza pockets with the beaten egg.
- Optional: Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or grated Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pizza pockets are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
- 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