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Homemade Pizza Pockets

This dish consists of small pockets of dough filled with cheese and sauce, baked until golden and bubbly. The dough is sealed and baked to create a crispy exterior with molten cheese and savory filling inside, resulting in handheld snack-sized treats.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for the dough
  • 1 teaspoon dry yeast to activate the dough
  • 3/4 cup warm water around 110°F to activate yeast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for richness and moisture
  • 1 teaspoon salt to flavor the dough
  • 1/2 cup pizza sauce for filling
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for filling and melting
  • optional fresh basil or oregano for added flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Rolling pin
  • Cup or Small Bowl for cutting dough

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and dry yeast, then stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy, signaling the yeast is activated.
  2. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or dough hook until the dough begins to come together.
  3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a clean towel and let rest for 15 minutes to relax the gluten.
  4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick. Use a small cup or bowl to cut out circles about 3 inches in diameter.
  6. Place a spoonful of pizza sauce and some shredded mozzarella in the center of each dough circle. Optional: add a small pinch of herbs for extra flavor.
  7. Fold each circle in half to form a semi-circle and pinch the edges together firmly to seal the filling inside. You can crimp the edges with a fork for extra security.
  8. Arrange the sealed pockets on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Optionally, brush with a little olive oil for a golden finish.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the pockets are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and bubbling hot inside.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These handheld pockets are best enjoyed warm, with cheese still melty inside.

Notes

For a crispier crust, brush the pockets with a little more olive oil before baking. You can customize fillings with pepperoni, vegetables, or different cheeses.