In a bowl, add the water, sugar, and yeast. Whisk thoroughly and leave it for five minutes until foamy.
After five minutes, add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl. Knead the dough for about five minutes until the dough becomes smooth.
Remove dough from the bowl and drizzle olive oil in the bowl, coat using a brush. Return the dough to the bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise at room temperature for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
For the Filling
To make the filling, pat the fresh mozzarella cheese dry using a paper towel, then slice into one inch pieces and transfer to a separate bowl, set aside.
Pour oil into a skillet over medium heat, add spinach and cook it down until it wilts.
Add tomato puree and stir, allowing it to cook for a few minutes.
Season the mixture with herbs and pour in heavy cream. Cook for 50 to 60 seconds until you get a thick, creamy mixture. Set aside and allow to cool.
Assembly
Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once the dough is ready, lightly punch it down and divide into eight equal portions. Take one portion and roll it down into a circular ball. Repeat the same with other portions.
Then roll each ball onto a floured cutting board, making them about ¼ inch thick.
Put the spinach mixture in the center of the dough, add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then fold it in half.
Secure the edges by pinching it with a fork.
Arrange panzerotti on the prepared baking sheet, brush marinara sauce on top (optional), then transfer to a preheated oven (425 degrees F) and bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Once done, let the panzerottis cool for five minutes and serve.
Notes
You can use premade pizza dough if you don’t have time to make homemade dough.
Store any leftovers by cooling them thoroughly, then place them in an air-tight container and leave them in the refrigerator for up to four days.