Can You Buy Calzone Dough? Yes, but Here’s How to Make it Better!
What To Know
- Pre-made calzone dough eliminates the hassle of making dough from scratch, allowing you to focus on the fun part – filling and baking your calzones.
- Add your desired fillings to one half of the dough and fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape.
- Calzone dough is typically thicker and denser than pizza dough, which can result in a chewier calzone.
Calzones, those delectable Italian pockets of dough filled with savory ingredients, are a culinary delight that many home cooks aspire to recreate. However, the prospect of making calzone dough from scratch can be daunting, leading to the question: “Can you buy calzone dough?”
The Answer: Yes, You Can!
The good news is that the answer is a resounding yes! Calzone dough is readily available in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. These pre-made doughs offer a convenient and time-saving alternative to kneading and rising your own dough.
Advantages of Buying Calzone Dough
- Convenience: Pre-made calzone dough eliminates the hassle of making dough from scratch, allowing you to focus on the fun part – filling and baking your calzones.
- Time-saving: Using pre-made dough significantly reduces the time required to prepare your calzones, making them a perfect option for busy weeknight dinners.
- Consistent Results: Commercial calzone doughs are typically made with high-quality ingredients and precise measurements, ensuring consistent results every time.
Choosing the Right Calzone Dough
When selecting pre-made calzone dough, consider the following factors:
- Brand: Opt for reputable brands known for their quality dough products.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredient list to ensure the dough contains high-quality flour, water, and yeast.
- Texture: Look for dough that is pliable and elastic, not too dry or sticky.
- Size: Choose a dough that is appropriate for the size of calzones you plan to make.
How to Use Pre-Made Calzone Dough
Using pre-made calzone dough is straightforward:
- Thaw: Allow the dough to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Roll out: Roll out the thawed dough on a lightly floured surface.
- Fill and fold: Add your desired fillings to one half of the dough and fold the other half over to create a half-moon shape.
- Seal: Crimp or seal the edges of the dough to prevent leakage.
- Bake: Bake the calzone according to the package directions or until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips for Perfect Calzones
- Preheat your oven: Ensure your oven is preheated to a high temperature (450-500°F) before baking the calzones.
- Use a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the calzones from sticking.
- Brush with oil: Brush the calzones with olive oil before baking to create a golden crust.
- Don’t overfill: Avoid overfilling the calzones, as it can cause them to burst.
- Let cool: Allow the calzones to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
The Verdict: Is Buying Calzone Dough Worth It?
Whether or not buying calzone dough is worth it depends on your individual preferences and circumstances. If you value convenience, time-saving, and consistent results, then pre-made calzone dough is an excellent option. However, if you enjoy the process of making dough from scratch or have specific dietary requirements, making your own dough may be more suitable.
Frequently Discussed Topics
- Can I use pizza dough to make calzones?
Yes, you can use pizza dough to make calzones, but it is not an ideal substitute. Calzone dough is typically thicker and denser than pizza dough, which can result in a chewier calzone.
- Can I freeze pre-made calzone dough?
Yes, you can freeze pre-made calzone dough for up to 3 months. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before using it.
- Can I make calzones ahead of time?
Yes, you can make calzones ahead of time and reheat them before serving. To do this, bake the calzones until they are almost cooked through, let them cool completely, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat the calzones in a preheated oven or microwave until warmed through.
- What is the difference between a calzone and a stromboli?
Calzones and strombolis are both Italian stuffed dough pockets, but they have some key differences. Calzones are typically folded in a half-moon shape, while strombolis are rolled up into a cylinder. Additionally, calzones are typically filled with ricotta cheese, while strombolis can be filled with a variety of cheeses, meats, and vegetables.
- What are some popular calzone fillings?
Popular calzone fillings include:
- Ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni
- Ham, mushrooms, and onions
- Sausage, bell peppers, and onions
- Spinach, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese