Spooky Calzone Snake Bake (Printable Format)

Cheesy calzone shaped like a snake, stuffed with pepperoni and fresh herbs, baked golden for festive fun.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
02 - 1 cup warm water (110°F)
03 - 1 package (0.25 ounce) active dry yeast
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
06 - 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided

→ Filling

07 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
08 - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
10 - 1 package (4 ounces) sliced pepperoni
11 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
12 - 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
13 - 1/2 cup sliced black olives
14 - 1/2 green bell pepper, cut into strips
15 - 1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms

→ Assembly

16 - 1 large egg
17 - 1 tablespoon water

# Preparation Steps:

01 - In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, dissolve granulated sugar in warm water. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the water and allow to stand for 5 minutes until creamy foam forms.
02 - Add olive oil, kosher salt, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until a wet dough forms. Gradually incorporate the remaining 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup at a time, and knead until dough pulls from the sides and forms a cohesive ball.
03 - Continue kneading on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Lightly oil a large bowl, transfer the dough to the bowl, and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, approximately 1 hour.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, sliced pepperoni, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, black olives, green bell pepper, and mushrooms. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
05 - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a long, flat strip approximately 9 inches wide by 30 inches long.
06 - Spoon the filling mixture evenly down the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch edges to seal, forming a long filled roll. Place seam-side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet, shaping it into an 'S' to resemble a snake. Tuck the ends under to secure.
07 - In a small bowl, beat 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the entire surface of the calzone for a glossy finish.
08 - Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown and crisp. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into portions.

# Supplementary Details:

01 - For a festive presentation, use extra black olives and bell peppers to decorate the snake's face and tongue before baking.