Real Italian Calzones

Ingredients

• 1 (1/4 ounce) package active dry yeast

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced pepperoni
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 egg, beaten

Directions

1. 1

   In a small bowl dissolve yeast in the warm (not hot!) water. Add 1 tablespoons of the oil, sugar and salt, and mix in 1 cup of the flour until smooth. Gradually stir in the rest of the flour until the dough is smooth and workable.

2. 2

   Knead dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes or until it is elastic. Lay dough in a bowl containing the other teaspoon of olive oil, flipping to coat dough in the oil. Cover and let rise from 40 minutes or until almost doubled.

3. 3

   While dough is rising combine all remaining ingredients except for the egg in a large bowl, cover and refrigerate to chill.

4. 4

   Preheat the oven to 375°F.

5. 5

   When the dough is ready, punch it down and separate it into two equal parts. Roll the halves individually out into thin circles on a lightly floured surface.

6. 6

   Fill one half of each circle with half of the filling mixture and fold over. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork.

7. 7

   Brush the top of each calzone with the egg wash and place on a greased cookie sheet.

8. 8

   Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes or until golden brown and heated through.

9. 9

   Serve with warmed tomato sauce if desired!