Next, I like to cut the dough into squares; about 4 inches by 4 inches works perfectly. This is where you can get creative! Place your cheese and chosen fillings in the center of each square, making sure not to overfill, or you’ll have a gooey mess on your hands. I typically start with a sprinkle of cheese, then add my toppings, and finish off with another layer of cheese to create a seal.
Now comes the fun part: folding. Carefully take the corners of your dough square and fold them over to form a pocket. Pinch the edges tightly together to avoid leakage (trust me, you’ll want to avoid that mess). Don’t forget to brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle on a bit of Italian seasoning for extra flavor before popping them in the oven.
Bake your pizza pockets in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll find it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they’re fully cooled. I usually wait just a few minutes, but the smell is so enticing that I struggle!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve made these pizza pockets a few different ways, and I can tell you that rolling the dough thin is key! I once thought thicker would be better, but it only made them doughy instead of that perfect flaky texture I was after.
Also, don’t forget to let your ingredients come to room temperature before adding them to the pockets. This helps to achieve that dreamy melting cheese texture, and no one wants cold filling in a warm pocket! I learned this the hard way when my cheese didn’t melt entirely, and it just wasn’t the same.
Lastly, feel free to experiment! I’ve tried adding different spices like garlic powder and parmesan cheese inside the filling to elevate the flavor. Every time I switch it up, someone in my family says, “This is the best one yet!” If you’re unsure, stick with the basics first, and then explore.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made is overloading the pockets. It’s so tempting to pile on all of your favorite toppings, but the more you add, the more likely it is that your pockets will burst in the oven. Less really is more in this case! (See the next page below to continue…)