Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your choice of fillings (pepperoni, cooked sausage, vegetables, etc.)
- Optional: Italian herbs, garlic powder for extra flavor
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder in a large bowl. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add milk and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
- On a floured surface, roll out dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out 4-inch circles.
- Place a tablespoon of marinara sauce and some shredded cheese in the center of each circle. Add your preferred fillings.
- Fold each circle over to create a half-moon shape and press edges to seal, crimping with a fork if desired.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pockets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with milk or egg wash.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and puffed.
Notes
- Ensure the dough is well chilled before rolling for a flaky texture.
- Seal edges thoroughly to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Customize fillings to suit your taste — try adding vegetables or different cheeses.
- Can be prepared in advance and frozen, then baked directly from frozen for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian (if fillings are vegetarian)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pocket
- Calories: 200 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
