Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour (180g) + extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon Instant Dry Yeast
  • ½ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt
  • ½ cup Warm Water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
  • 1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • ½ cup Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (drained if watery)
  • 1 cup Low-Moisture Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano Cheese
  • ½ cup Sliced Pepperoni or cooked Italian Sausage
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Basil or Dried Oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
  • 1 large Egg (lightly beaten, for egg wash)

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Dough: Whisk yeast into warm water and let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix and Knead: Combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy mass forms, then knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Proof the Dough: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare Filling: While dough rises, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
  5. Divide and Roll: Gently deflate the risen dough. Divide into 4 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into an oval or rough circle, about 6–7 inches in diameter.
  6. Fill and Fold: Spoon one-quarter of the filling onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border clear. Fold the empty half over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
  7. Seal Tightly: Crimp the edges firmly with your fingers, then use a fork to seal the entire perimeter securely.
  8. Egg Wash and Vent: Brush the tops of the calzones lightly with the egg wash. Use a sharp knife to cut 2–3 small slits on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape.
  9. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for 5 minutes.
  10. Air Fry: Place 1 or 2 calzones in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 12–16 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden brown and crisp.
  11. Serve Hot: Remove carefully and let cool for 2 minutes before slicing or eating.