Baby Calzone
Baby calzones are mini, portable Italian-inspired snacks filled with cheesy goodness and pepperoni, perfect for appetizers, kids' lunches, or party finger foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses in a small bowl and mix.
- Half each biscuit horizontally to make 20 thin biscuits. If the kitchen is hot, refrigerate half the dough.
- Shape one piece of dough into an oval about 2 1/2 x 4 inches.
- Place a slice of pepperoni slightly off center on the dough.
- Top with one level tablespoon of cheese mixture.
- Moisten the edge of the dough and fold over to enclose the filling.
- Pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the baby calzone on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Repeat with remaining dough and fillings.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked sausage to the cheese filling. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute part-skim ricotta for regular ricotta. To make the calzones even more flavorful, add Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the cheese mixture. If you have leftover dough, you can use it for quick Appetizer Pizzas by topping them with sauce and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
These baby calzones make a great appetizer or snack and pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. They also complement Italian recipes beautifully, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baby calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the calzones soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baby Calzone contains roughly 124 calories, with 8g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and calcium (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze baby calzones?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked baby calzones. Assemble them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese, cream cheese or cottage cheese can be good alternatives. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth. Each substitute will slightly alter the flavor and texture, but they can still yield delicious results.
Can I make these calzones vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make vegetarian baby calzones, simply omit the pepperoni or replace it with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also add extra cheese for more flavor. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, meat-free option while still enjoying the Italian flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).