Dark Chocolate Hand Pies

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

   Tip: Make sure to grease the parchment paper for easy removal.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, and granulated sugar. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

   Tip: Be gentle to avoid developing the gluten in the flour.

3. 3

   Add the dark chocolate chips and mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

   Tip: Use a light touch to avoid melting the chocolate.

4. 4

   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, plain flour, baking powder, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture and mix until a dough forms.

   Tip: Don't overmix the dough – it should still be slightly crumbly.

5. 5

   Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.

   Tip: Use a rolling pin to help shape the dough into perfect circles.

6. 6

   Spoon a small amount of the chocolate filling onto one half of each disk. Fold the other half over to form a triangle and press the edges to seal.

   Tip: Make sure the edges are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from escaping during baking.

7. 7

   Place the hand pies on the prepared baking tray and brush the tops with a little milk. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.

   Tip: Keep an eye on the pies during the last few minutes of baking – they can go from golden to burnt quickly.

8. 8

   Remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 5-10 minutes before serving.

   Tip: Let the pies cool completely before serving to ensure the filling sets properly.

9. 9

   Serve warm or at room temperature, dust with powdered sugar if desired.

   Tip: Enjoy your delicious Dark Chocolate Hand Pies!